Things To Do
in Kegalle
Kegalle is a picturesque town located in the heart of Sri Lanka, surrounded by lush green hills and tea plantations. It serves as a gateway to several national parks and is rich in biodiversity, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. The town is also known for its vibrant culture and historical sites, offering a glimpse into the traditional Sri Lankan way of life.
With its warm climate and friendly locals, Kegalle provides a relaxing retreat for visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to observe and interact with rescued elephants, feeding them and watching them bathe.
Explore the Kegalle Museum, which showcases the local history and culture, followed by a leisurely walk through the nearby tea plantations.
Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like rice and curry while watching a cultural dance performance.
Take a guided hike in the nearby Knuckles Mountain Range, where you can appreciate stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Visit the historic temple of Dhamma Kuta Viharaya, known for its ancient architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Relax at a local café with a cup of Ceylon tea, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $3 - $7 |
| ☕Cup of Ceylon tea | $1 |
| 🚖Taxi ride within the town | $2 - $5 |
| 🍉Fresh fruit from the market | $0.50 - $2 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs | $5 - $20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
- Friendly and welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife options
- Public transportation can be challenging
- Language barrier for non-Sinhala speakers
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Mama Sinhala danne na" - I don't understand Sinhala
- "Bauddha Dhamma" - Buddhism
Places to Visit in Kegalle
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning moments of elephants bathing and interacting in their natural habitat.
A breathtaking backdrop for landscape photography, featuring rolling hills and diverse flora.
An ancient temple with intricate architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Sri Lankan spirituality.
Food in Kegalle
Kegalle Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish featuring rice served with a variety of flavorful curries made from vegetables, lentils, or meat.
Must-Try!
A popular street food made from chopped roti, vegetables, and choice of meat, stir-fried together with spices.
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour, often served with a variety of toppings like eggs or sweet coconut milk.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering delicious snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting temples or religious sites, wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
It is customary to remove your shoes before entering homes and sacred places.
Always show respect to elders, using polite greetings and gestures.
Safety
Tipping in Kegalle
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services; a tip of around 10% is common.
Cash is widely accepted, but some places also accept credit cards; it’s advisable to carry local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy rainfall, which can limit outdoor activities but increases the lush greenery.
Ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration, with pleasant weather and clearer skies.
Witness vibrant local festivals, showcasing traditional music, dance, and food.
Temperatures can soar, making it important to stay hydrated and plan activities for cooler parts of the day.
Kegalle at Night
Hiking in Kegalle
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail in the nearby Horton Plains National Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The second-highest peak in Sri Lanka, providing challenging treks and breathtaking vistas.
Airports
How to reach Kegalle by plane.
Located approximately 80 km from Kegalle, this is the main international airport serving Sri Lanka, offering flights to various global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kegalle, known for their rich cultural traditions and practices.
A significant minority group in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Kegalle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is a beloved sport in Kegalle, with many locals participating in matches and following national teams.
Rugby has a growing popularity in Sri Lanka, with local clubs often organizing matches and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kegalle.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about the ingredients to avoid any hidden meat.
Gluten-free choices are limited, so it's important to communicate dietary needs clearly to the staff.