Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve (Herbal Garden) – A House of Diverse Ecosystems

Located close to several resorts in Anuradhapura the likes of Ulagalla, Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve is accessible through the Habarana-Kekirawa Road. It is located in the Anuradhapura district in Sri Lanka, and its customary approached via Banda-Pokuna nestled at the east foot of Ritigala Mountain, reachable by jeep. One can reach Anuradhapura from three main cities, including Puttalam, Dambulla, and Kurunegala. It's possible to reach Ritigala from Anuradhapura, either via Maradankadawala or Kekirawa.

The incredible diversity of the thriving plant community of Ritigala is unrivalled by none. With dry mixed forests draping its lower slopes that slowly transform into tall canopy trees, create diverse ecosystems that accommodate the varying conditions that are vital for the survival of a mélange of plant species. For example, even though Ritigala is situated in a dry zone, one can observe species of flora that usually thrive in the wet zone as well. In the early 1990s, an astounding number of species of flora were recorded, out of which many were identified medicinal flower plants that are used in Ayurvedic treatments in Sri Lanka.

The Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve is a haven for a plethora of animals that roam in its veiled depths. Over 30 species of mammals such as the striped-necked mongoose, rusty-spotted cat, sambar, leopard, and even bats call this region their home. The Sri Lanka jungle fowl, Malabar Pied hornbill, mountain hawk-eagle, and the Blue-faced malkoha are some of the mesmerising bird species that rule the skies that span over Ritigala. Many reptile species like Russell's viper, Green-vine snake, lizards, and tortoises can be found crawling around its green depths. One can also observe over 50 species of vibrantly coloured butterflies, 20 species of fish, and even 16 species of snails that add to the staggering number of fauna species at Ritigala.

Inside the thick shrubbery and lush verdure that drape the Ritigala Mountain are the ancient remnants of a Buddhist monastery. It has been noted that around 70 rock caves are peppered through the dense growth of this region, which are believed to have been inhabited by monks who were living secluded from the conventional society. Ritigala also acted as a sanctuary for the Sri Lankan Kings during their war against the Dravidian invaders. According to an inscription at the site, it has been revealed that King Lanji Tissa as the founder of the Ritigala Monastery. The surviving ruins of this monastery reveal the monastic architecture of Sri Lanka, which makes it an ideal location for people with research interest.

It is said that there exists a powerful medicinal herb called "Sansevi" near the crest of the mountain that is believed to have the power of imbuing immortality in those who use it. Another legend is that all trees and other vegetation in Ritigala are protected by the Yakkas, who are assumed to be the guardian spirits of the mountain. Yet another legendary story that revolves around the Ritigala Strict Forest Reserve is that Lord Hanuman has accidentally dropped a piece of Himalayas, which he was carrying while he was flying over Ritigala. This story accounts for the strange fact that a small out-of-place area of medicinal herbs near the summit of Ritigala, that varies vastly from other plants of its kind in the region.