Wildlife Species at Rumassala

According to folklore, Rummasala is said to contain a herb that can cure any illness. This herb called “Kalunika” by locals is by myth, brought down to Sri Lanka by the great monkey god Hanuman from India. Legend has it that when God Rama’s brother Lakshmana was injured in battle, Hanuman flew to the Himalayas to bring down the herb to cure him. But on reaching the Himalayas, he had forgotten the name of the herb. Thus, he brought back a piece of the Himalayas with the required plants but accidently dropped it at Rumassala. Although this herb has not been found, Rumassala still has a bounty of rare medicinal plants found in the area.

The Rumassala hill is home to a horde of these shy creatures that are very precious as they are endemic to the country. Also known as the Purple-Faced Langur (Trachypithecus vetulus), this species was once highly prevalent in areas such as suburban Colombo but their number has decreased due to rapid urbanisation. When you visit the hill, you can see these fellows running from tree to tree. They can be identified by a mostly brown appearance and a dark face (with a paler lower face).

At the foot of the Rumassala cliff, you will find a gorgeous beach ideal for snorkelling as the waters here are home to a rich marine biodiversity of colourful coral reefs. Though the reef was once badly affected by both human and natural causes, after authorities took steps to establish both the forest and the reefs as a sanctuary, the corals have fared favourably. If you’re planning a trip down to the hill and wondering of a good Hikkaduwa beach hotel to stay while you go snorkelling, you can consider Bansei by Hotel J as an option as the hotel is only 40 minutes away from Rumassala.
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