If you love slow travel and beautiful countryside drives, the Kurunegala–Ridigama Scenic Route is one of
the most relaxing and picturesque journeys in central Sri Lanka.
Stretching through lush paddy fields, coconut plantations, and peaceful villages, this route connects
Kurunegala town with the historic temples of Ridigama — including Ridi Viharaya and the Rambodagalla
Buddha Statue.
It’s not just a road trip — it’s a journey through Sri Lanka’s timeless rural charm, where nature, history,
and daily life flow together beautifully.
Highlights:
Scenic Countryside Views: Rolling green fields, palm trees, and small lakes along the roadside.
Cultural Stops: Visit ancient temples and local shrines along the way.
Local Life: Spot farmers working in fields and friendly villagers waving as you pass.
Photography: Perfect for sunrise or sunset captures with golden light over paddy fields.
- 🚗 Scenic Drive: Experience winding roads lined with coconut plantations and green hills.
- 🙏 Ridigama Temple: Visit the ancient Ridigama Raja Maha Viharaya, dating back to King Dutugemunu’s era.
- ⛰️ Hill Views: Stop at viewpoints along the way for photos of the Kurunegala hills.
- 🏡 Local Villages: Explore traditional Sri Lankan villages and paddy fields.
- 🚴 Cycling & Hiking: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore at a slower pace.
- By Car 🚗 or Tuk-tuk 🛺: Easily accessible from Kurunegala town center 📍✅
- By Bus 🚌: Local buses 🚍 to Ridigama operate regularly throughout the day ⏱️✅
- By Bicycle 🚲: Great option for cycling enthusiasts 🚴♀️ who love open-air exploration 🏞️💨
- Bring a camera 📸 or drone 🚁 for scenic aerial shots 🏞️✨
- Stop by Ridi Viharaya 🙏 and Rambodagalla Temple 🧘🗿 for short visits ⏱️✅
- Try local snacks 🍢 or king coconut 🥥 from roadside vendors 😋🥤
- Drive slowly 🚗🐢 — enjoy the views 👀 and watch out ⚠️ for cyclists 🚲 and school children 👧👦
- 6:30 AM – Depart Kurunegala town 🚗💨 start your journey 🗺️📍
- 7:00 AM – Stop at a viewpoint 📸 for photos of paddy fields 🌾🏞️
- 7:30 AM – Visit Ridi Viharaya Temple 🕌🙏 explore the shrine 😌✅
- 8:30 AM – Continue to Rambodagalla Buddha Statue 🗿🧘 next stop 🚗💨
- 10:00 AM – Breakfast 🍽️ or tea ☕ in Ridigama town 🥐😋 before heading back 🚗👋
