Ingiriya City

Ingiriya, nestled in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, is a serene town known for its lush landscapes and tranquil environment. Located about 80 kilometers from Colombo, it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The area is characterized by scenic hills and verdant forests, part of Sri Lanka's wet zone, which supports a rich biodiversity. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts find Ingiriya appealing for its pristine trails and opportunities to observe diverse bird species, endemic flora, and fauna at nearby reserves like Bodhinagala Forest.

The town is not only a haven for natural beauty but also carries cultural significance with several ancient temples dotting the area, including the renowned Ranmudu Ella Temple, rich in local legends and history. These sites provide a window into the spiritual and historical fabric of the region.

Outdoor activities are plentiful in Ingiriya, with options ranging from hiking and bird watching to visiting stunning waterfalls like the Kukule Ganga falls, ideal for picnics and relaxing outings. The adventurous can explore challenging terrains and hidden trails, adding to the town’s appeal for those seeking active pursuits.

The local economy is predominantly based on agriculture, with rubber, tea, and spice cultivation being central. Visits to local farms and plantations offer insights into the agricultural practices and lifestyles of the rural communities in Sri Lanka. While not heavily commercialized, Ingiriya provides various accommodations from homestays and guesthouses to eco-friendly lodges, allowing visitors to deeply immerse themselves in the serene environment and experience genuine local hospitality.

Ingiriya is also known for its vibrant community life with cultural festivals and events occurring throughout the year, showcasing the traditions and customs of the area. These events are lively and colorful, providing an excellent opportunity for visitors to engage with the local culture. Overall, Ingiriya is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure in Sri Lanka.

About Kalutara District

Kalutara is situated approximately 42km south of Colombo. Once a spice trading post, Kalutara was controlled variously by the Portuguese, Dutch and British. The town is famous for quality bamboo basket and mats and the most luscious mangosteens.

The 38-meter long Kalutara Bridge was built at the mouth of the Kalu Ganga River and serves as a major link between the country's Western and Southern border. At the southern end of the bridge lies the 3 stories-high Kalutara Vihara, a Buddhist temple built in the 1960s which holds the distinction of being the only stupa in the world that is hollow.

About Western Province

The Western Province is the most densely populated province of Sri Lanka. It is home to the legislative capital Sri Jayawardenapura as well to Colombo, the nation's administrative and business center. Western Province is divided into 3 main districts called Colombo (642 km²), Gampaha (1,386.6 km²) and Kalutara (1,606 km²) districts. As Sri Lanka's economic hub, all the major local and international corporations have their presence in the city and so do all the major designer and high street retailers, so be ready to indulge in some retail therapy in western province.

Having the highest population in the all the provinces, the almost all the premier educational institutions in the island are located in western province. Universities in the province include the University of Colombo, the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, University of Kelaniya, Open University, Sri Lanka, Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University and University of Moratuwa .Western province has the largest amount of schools in the country, which includes National, Provincial, Private and International schools.