Ritigala is an ancient Buddhist monastery and mountain located in the north-central region of Sri Lanka. The mountain is located about 43 km east of Anuradhapura and is known for its natural beauty, historical significance, and archaeological treasures.
The mountain rises to a height of 766 meters above sea level and is covered with dense forest, providing a habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. The site is also known for its numerous caves, stone inscriptions, and ruins of ancient buildings, including a hospital and a library.
The monastery at Ritigala is believed to have been established during the 1st century BCE and to have flourished during the Anuradhapura period. It was known for its strict adherence to monastic rules and for its sophisticated water management system, which utilized a network of underground canals to bring water to the site.
Today, Ritigala is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims, who come to explore the ancient ruins and to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountain and its surrounding forests. It is also a protected archaeological site and is managed by the Sri Lankan Department of Archaeology.