Things To Do
in Kurunegala
Kurunegala sits inland in Sri Lanka's North Western Province, framed by limestone hills and a shimmering lake. The city blends ancient temples, bustling markets, and a relaxed, friendly pace that makes it a good base for exploring the region. Ethagala, the Elephant Rock, rises above the town as a recognizable landmark and photography spot.
With easy access to Knuckles Mountain Range and nearby rural villages, Kurunegala offers culture, nature, and authentic Sri Lankan life away from the crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kurunegala and check in to your hotel, getting settled and refreshed after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh fruits and traditional Sri Lankan dishes. Take a stroll around the neighborhood to soak in the vibrant local culture.
Visit the ancient temple of the Viyangoda Cave, where you can admire the unique rock formations and historical frescoes. Engage with local artisans in nearby craft villages, discovering traditional pottery and weaving techniques. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, treating yourself to a delicious rice and curry meal.
As the sun sets, take a scenic walk around the picturesque Kurunegala Lake. Visit a local market to experience the lively atmosphere and perhaps pick up some fresh produce. Conclude your day with a traditional Sri Lankan dinner at your hotel.
After breakfast, set out to explore the majestic Aluvihare Rock Temple, an important Buddhist site with stunning views. Spend time wandering through the temple complex, learning about its history and significance. Take photographs of the beautiful architecture and surrounding landscape.
Head to the nearby town of Dambulla to visit the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, known for its impressive statues and murals. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialties. Explore the bustling markets and shops in Dambulla before heading back to Kurunegala.
Return to Kurunegala and relax at your hotel, utilizing the evening to unwind by the pool. Enjoy a quiet dinner, reflecting on the day’s adventures. Spend the evening strolling through Kurunegala's streets, experiencing the warm hospitality of the local people.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Local curry meal | $3-6 |
| ☕Tea or coffee | $0.5-2 |
| 🍜Street food snack | $0.5-2 |
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location with easy access to Knuckles and nearby temples
- Affordable prices and a relaxed, authentic Sri Lankan experience
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared to bigger cities
- Can experience traffic congestion in the market area during peak hours
- "Ayubowan" - Hello / May you live long
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Mage namaya [your name]" - My name is [your name]
- "Dayawinnam" - Please
Places to Visit in Kurunegala
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic limestone monolith overlooking Kurunegala; best for sunrise or sunset silhouettes and city panoramas.
Historic landmark in the city center; captures the daily bustle and architectural detail of the town.
Calm waters, boats, and reflections—ideal for landscape and portrait photography with a serene backdrop.
Several temples in and around the city offer intricate carvings, golden statues, and a glimpse of local religious life.
Food in Kurunegala
Kurunegala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A complete plate with rice plus a rotating assortment of vegetable, fish, or meat curries; available at most local eateries and hotel restaurants.
Must-Try!
A traditional sour fish curry made with dried fish and a distinctive blend of spices; common in local restaurants and home kitchens.
Chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and/or meat; popular street food found along market extensions in the evenings.
Coconut sambol served with rice or flatbreads; a staple accompaniment across many meals.
Bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour; often enjoyed for breakfast or dinner with a variety of fillings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, spices, fish, and everyday Sri Lankan goods; great for sampling local snacks and picking up ingredients.
Popular spots for isso wade (prawn fritters), seasoned snacks, fried vegetables, and fresh fruit smoothies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), remove shoes before temple entry, and speak softly; photographing inside temples often requires permission.
Use polite greetings and address locals with respect; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
A smile and light bow are common; accept food offered with thanks and avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects.
Safety
Tipping in Kurunegala
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory. Round up bills in casual eateries or leave 5–10% for good service in nicer places; small tips for guides and hotel staff are common.
Cash is widely accepted; many restaurants and hotels accept cards in larger towns. ATMs are common in Kurunegala; digital wallets and mobile payments are increasingly available but not universal in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and hot with bright sunshine; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon.
Generally cooler and drier; humidity is moderate and outdoor visits are pleasant during the day.
Inland regions experience humid conditions with occasional rain showers; mornings are often clearer for outdoor exploration.
Humid with potential sudden heavy showers; carry a light rain jacket and be flexible with outdoor plans.
Kurunegala at Night
Hiking in Kurunegala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short-to-moderate hike to the Elephant Rock overlook, popular for sunrise and sunset photography.
A UNESCO-listed range offering rugged hikes and dramatic scenery about a couple of hours from Kurunegala.
Airports
How to reach Kurunegala by plane.
Sri Lanka’s main international gateway near Colombo; expect 2.5–3.5 hours of road travel to Kurunegala depending on traffic.
Smaller airport serving domestic and limited international routes; roughly a similar travel time to Kurunegala as CMB depending on route and traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in Kurunegala and the surrounding district.
Smaller community present in the region, involved in various trades.
Smaller communities contributing to local markets and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across Sri Lanka, widely played at schools and clubs in Kurunegala.
Popular among youth and local communities with informal matches on community fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kurunegala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most curries and preparations are vegetable-forward; look for dal, jackfruit curry, potato curries, and lentils. Inform staff of any dairy constraints and opt for oil-based preparations rather than ghee if preferred.