Arankele Forest Monastery

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Deep inside the forests near Kurunegala lies Arankele Forest Monastery, a peaceful retreat where ancient monks once lived in meditation. Dating back to the Anuradhapura period (around 6th century AD), this monastery is one of Sri Lanka’s best-preserved forest hermitages — surrounded by towering trees, stone paths, and the sounds of nature.
A visit to Arankele is not just a historical experience; it’s a chance to step away from city noise and feel true stillness.

Highlights :
Meditation Walkways: Long stone paths used by monks for walking meditation.
Ancient Bathing Ponds: Beautifully carved stone ponds once used by forest monks.
Ruins of Monks’ Residences: Simple but elegant rock-built cells hidden under the trees.
Peaceful Forest Setting: The perfect place to unwind, meditate, or photograph natural beauty.

What to See & Do

  • 🏛️ Ancient Monastic Ruins: Explore meditation platforms, stone bridges, and bathing ponds.
  • 🌳 Forest Trails: Walk through serene jungle paths surrounded by birds and butterflies.
  • 🪨 Archaeological Site: Observe inscriptions and ancient stone architecture.
  • 🧘 Meditation: Experience peace and mindfulness in nature’s embrace.
  • 📸 Photography: Capture the untouched beauty of ancient forest life.

How to Get There

  • From Kurunegala 🏘️: Take Ibbagamuwa–Arankele Road 🛣️ (about 45 min ⏱️ by car 🚗 or tuk-tuk 🚕💨) ✅
  • From Colombo 🏙️: Approx. 3 hours ⏳ via Kurunegala Road 🚘🗺️👍
  • From Kandy 🏔️: Around 2 hours ⏱️ via Katugastota and Dodangaslanda 🗺️🚗💨

Travel Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes 👟 for some walking required 🚶‍♀️🥾✅
  • Bring water 💧 and mosquito repellent 🦟🚫🚰🎒
  • Respect the silence 🤫; monks still meditate here 🧘🙏🕯️
  • Ideal for meditation 🧘, nature lovers 🌳❤️, and photographers 📸✨👍

Suggested Itinerary

  • 7:30 AM 🕖 – Depart Kurunegala 🚗 for Arankele 🌳🧭💨
  • 8:15 AM 🕣 – Walk through the forest paths 🚶‍♀️🌲 and monks’ ruins 🏚️👀📜
  • 9:30 AM 🕘 – Meditate 🧘 or relax 😌 by the ancient pond 💧🙏💚
  • 10:00 AM 🕙 – Breakfast 🍳☕ or tea 🍵 in Ibbagamuwa village 🏘️😋👋

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

Daily : 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee:

Free (donations welcome)

Best Time to Visit:

Morning or evening when the forest is cool and quiet

Location

📌 Arankele Forest Monastery, Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka

👉 View on Google Maps

Arankele is located about 25 km from Kurunegala town (around 45 minutes by car) and 8 km from Ibbagamuwa.

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