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Frequently mentioned in reviews: rock (65) Kurunegala (54) view (35) statue (32) Buddha (27) city (24) town (23) Athugala (19) beautiful (18) visit (15)
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  • 5/5 Roam With J. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing place to visit. It wont take too much time to too much time from kurungala. can have a beautiful 360° view at this place.( mountain ranges , kurungala tank , kurunagala town ) Be careful if you use the staircase to climb. There is another road too. Please protect the environment.
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 milan s. 3 months ago on Google New
    Ethugala Rock, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Sri Lanka, stands as a geological marvel and cultural landmark. Rising majestically, this imposing rock formation is characterized by its rugged surface and distinctive contours that draw the gaze of onlookers. The rock holds historical significance, as it is believed to have served as a place of refuge during ancient times. Its strategic location allowed for a natural fortress, providing protection and vantage points for those seeking shelter. The surrounding lush greenery contrasts with the rock's weathered facade, creating a harmonious blend of nature and history. Climbing Ethugala Rock is an adventure that rewards the intrepid explorer with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The ascent, though challenging, unveils a tapestry of verdant landscapes, revealing the rich biodiversity that thrives in the region. For cultural enthusiasts, Ethugala Rock is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sri Lanka's history. Its weathered surface tells tales of resilience and endurance, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to connect with the past while embracing the natural beauty that defines this remarkable geological formation.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lahiru S. 1 year ago on Google
    Athugala, which is a large rock located in Kurunegala city, is also known as "Athagala". At the top of the rock is a large Samadhi Buddha statue. You can reach the top on foot, and there is also a road that can be reached by vehicle.From the top of the rock, you can see a beautiful view of Kurunegala city.Apart from the Samadhi Buddha statue, Athugala Vihara, Kaballalena Rajamaha Vihara etc. are also located on the Athugala rock.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Supun L. 4 years ago on Google
    Very historic and beautiful place. The white buddha statue and the view below is breathtaking .Must visit place to a traveller visiting kurunegala city
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gayan K. 1 year ago on Google
    Very nice temple. Great view from there . Great tourists attraction
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 DAMITH C. 2 years ago on Google
    Kurunegala District is in the North-Western Province of Sri Lanka, locating it in the middle of the country. Many of the tourist destinations of these districts are based on mountain summits, caves, and sacred temples. Athugala is one of the prominent landmarks of Kurunegala. The locals use the name of Athugalpuraya to identify the town. The rock has derived its name as the rock is in the shape of an elephant and is 325 meters tall. There is a myth of the local in the vicinity that the rock has obtained such formation due to animals turning into rocks not being able to withstand the severe drought. There is a temple on the top of the rock and also, a big Samadhi Buddha statue overlooking the city of Kurunegala though there is a temple on the top of the cliff, individuals from many faiths visiting the temple to enjoy the hike and the adventurous journey towards the top of the mountain. One could use the stairs to reach the top of the mountain or could use the vehicle to climb up. Hiking your journey to the top of the mountain is more rewarding than using the car to reach the top. Hiking towards the top of the hill is preferred by many young and old individuals. The best time to start hiking up the rock is during or after the sunset, as it would give a panoramic view of the Kurunegala city, with the sun setting off coloring the sky in the shades of pink and purple, the busy lights of the vehicles begin to appear followed by the bright lights from the shops and other parts gives a breathtaking view. As you walk to the top of the mountain, you would be able to get a clear glimpse of the snow-white Buddha statue, which is seen as floating from afar.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 sandaru g. 3 years ago on Google
    This is a icon of kurunegala. It is sacred and historical place. 88 feet tall Buddha Statue built on the top of the Athugala rock. It is also known as "Ethagala(ඇතාගල)", "Elephant Rock." The shape of Athugala resembles an elephant. You can drive vehicles to the top of the rock. Road is very good. But lot of bends in the road.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Maliya N. 9 months ago on Google
    Crowded in Poyadays. Steps available to climb the rock. There is a road that leads to top of the rock. But poyadays it is usually closed for vehicles. Private parking spaces available near the entrance. Top of the rock washroom facility available for 20 rupees. But not clean. Everyday they collect money from the pilgrims. But infrastructure facility is really low. Inside the statue there is no proper ventilation available. Bad sweat smell produce due to large number of people.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Udara B. 2 years ago on Google
    If you want to see the whole of Kurunegala town one and more, Athugala Rock is the perfect place. The large Buddha statue heals your mind. Athugala Rock is a must visit place in Kurunegala.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shazny S. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the beautiful location in Kurunegala district to reach till top by vehicle🤩 Athugala (Elephant Rock)Kurunegala. Athugala Elephant Rock is a prominent venue of the Royal Capital Sri Lanka, the Kurunegala. Kurunegala is in the North-western Province and nearly 45km from Kandy. Kurunegala is surrounded by rocks and the Ethagala or elephant rock is the largest among them.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kothmini S. 2 years ago on Google
    A great place to visit. The whole Kurunegala town town can be seen from the top of the mountain.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yasith S. 5 years ago on Google
    Good place to visit. Two paths available. Bit too hard to climb in the rock. But great experience
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 mjmi ul h. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing place
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dusha A. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing place🤩🤩🤩.. you can have 360 view of the city🏞
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Viraj Bandara D. 1 year ago on Google
    This is the iconic rock in Kurunagala. Kurunegala called " Athugalpura" because of this Iconic rock. There is a nature friendly carpet road to the top of the Rock.. Also if you like you can climb it using old stares graved in the Rock. On the way you can visit "Ibbagala rajamaha viharaya" also. Through the Road its around 1.5km - 2km to the peak. You can find a set of Telecom signal towers. Also there is a new statue of Load Buddha. Washroom facilities are available there. Its a magnificent view. Its a panoramic view. You can see Kurunagala Lake,and a set of other Rocks and Town with long mountain ranges from there. Its a nice place to visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mudith M. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful mountain in Kurunegala city
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shani L. 1 year ago on Google
    🌸A narrow road is there to go up but the road condition is good. Can take vehicles near.🌸 Then you you have only around 200m walk to the temple.🌸 Better to go early morning.🌸can have a wonderful view in Kurunagala town.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Buddhika J. 5 years ago on Google
    This place is a hidden gem in Kurunegala town. There is a carpeted road to the hill top through greenish forest reserve. You can park the vehicle in front of the entrance to the large Buddha statue and enjoy the magnificent view of surrounding area including Kurunegala town, lake and beautiful mountain ranges. This is a good place to visit and relax your mind if you are travelling through Kurunegala.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Janitha P. 4 years ago on Google
    Ethugala# most popular place in Kurunegala if someone talking about Kurunegala there will be part about Ethugala. Top of the rock beautiful Load Buddha statue. All the Saturdays and Sundays are busy with visitors. Also every poya poya days there is special pooja. You can reach place from two sides. One from temple side and other side from Rajapihilla road (near to wathhimi class.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kavinga K. 3 years ago on Google
    Can see whole Kurunagala City from the top
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 HARINDA V. 4 years ago on Google
    Athugala is an iconic part of Kurunegala city. On the top there is a Samadhi Buddha statue faced towards Kurunegala. You can reach the top by foot or by a vehicle. On the top of the rock there is space to park vehicles. The place is mostly isolated. However it's crowded on Full moon poya days. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top by foot. Also there is a staircase carved to the surface of the rock. Climbing the stairs is hard but a quick way to reach the top.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sanjeewa P. 4 years ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful place in kurunegala u can drive to the top of the rock road is very good and lot of bends very nice view and u can see kurunegala whole city at the top of the rock People call this athugala because of the shape of the rock and some people saying the name of city Kurunegala also created with a story related to this rock. After the dawn came view is very beautiful because of the lighted city and lighted roads with brake lights and head lights. Top of the rock is very windy and quiet place And big sitting statue of load buddha which is visible when u entered to the kurunegala city.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sharika P. 4 years ago on Google
    Sacred and historical place in Kurunegala. Now it is very easy to reach the top of the rock. You can visit buddha statue on the rock. Nice place to go on a trip. You can see the entire city from the top. But be aware of 🐒🐒🐒.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rashmika 4 years ago on Google
    Better view to kurunagala town. It is a Buddhist temple and there huge Buddha statue
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Basura R. 6 years ago on Google
    Nice place. Can see an awesome view ofkurunegala town. It's difficult to climb the rock during mid day because it is very hot. The idle time to climb the rock is in evening.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kelum Srimal D. 2 years ago on Google
    This statue is located on the Ethagala rock(height 1100 feet) in the heart of Kurunegala City, Kurunegala District in the North Western Province or Wayamba, traditionally called Sathkorale. The city is encircled by a series of rocks namely Athagala, Ibbagala, Andagala, Kuruminiyagala etc., the most prominent being Athagala, this rock bearing a resemblance to a majestic elephant, hence the names Athagala or Hasthisailapura. Kurunegala has the third highest population of the 22 districts with 1.58 million of which 91.2% are Buddhists(census 2012). It is 93 km from Colombo and has direct roads to Kandy 42 km, Puttalam 87 km, Dambulla 55 km and Negombo 75 km. A large volume of traffic from Colombo proceeding to Jaffna, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa pass through the city and the statue which is a symbol of Kurunegala is visible to all. Sathkorale had been inhabited from the earliest times as proved by Pre-Christian rock inscriptions in many parts of the district. The people were engaged in paddy cultivation and the largest number of small irrigation tanks are found here. Coconut is another important crop and Kurunegala is one apex of the coconut triangle. Sathkorale came into prominence in the 12th to 14th centuries as 4 capitals were located here. Parakramabahu ruled as sub king at Panduwasnuwara in Dakkinadesa before ascending the throne at Polonnaruwa in 1153. The world’s first peace treaty between him and king Gajabahu II of Polonnaruwa carved on a rock can be seen near Gokarella, about 15 km from Kurunegala. When Rajarata was being devastated by the invading Magha of Kalinga, his advance to the south was halted by the leaders of Sathkorale. The kingdom of Dambadeniya was established by Vijayabahu III in 1232. His son Parakramabahu II(1236-1270) restored temples, improved the living standards of the people and ushered in Sinhala literature. His forces expelled Magha and his army from the country. King Buwanaikabahu I (1272-1284) of Yapahuwa built an exquisitively carved stone Temple of the Tooth and engaged in diplomatic relations with foreign countries, even sending an ambassador to the Caliph of Egypt. King Parakramabahu IV (1302-1326) contributed much to Sinhala literature. The kings who succeeded him ruled until 1326 after which the capital moved to Gampola.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Krishan C. 5 years ago on Google
    Amazing view. Also a perfect place to worship Loard Buddha. When you went to this place you can see whole Kurunegala city.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pradeep T. 5 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Kurunagala wonderful heritage .... (Original) Kurunagala heritage ....wonderful
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 write s. 2 years ago on Google
    We were passing through Kurunegala town when we tried this. Took us about 5 minutes to reach the top by car. Thrilling ride. Would not recommend to sensitive people. Coming down is much more relaxing. There's parking area for about 10 vehicles. If it's full, you can park by the roadside. But would recommend you stay in the vehicle and let your family go because big vehicles might not be able to pass. View from the top is super spectacular. You can see the entire city from there and the faraway mountains. Buddha statue has been recently built. Beneath the statue there's an enclosed space for you to meditate and worship. There's a flower seller at the entrance but not sure she's available everyday. Police security post has been established and the place looked safe. Loved the big wild rock pond by the parking area but it's not easily accessible. Would not recommend for bathing due to large amount of litter thrown there from one side. Monkeys play along the way but would not recommend feeding.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Buddhika Lakshan H. 3 years ago on Google
    A beautiful Buddha statue has been erected in the center of Kurunegala. A beautiful rock with the image of an elephant.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 D product & Dinuk S J. 3 years ago on Google
    👍
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Janice C. 2 years ago on Google
    WOW the view from top is truly remarkable, its a nice climb with the gigantic status of Lord Buddha appearing gradually until you see a large peacefully seated Lord Buddha gazing over Kurunegala.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Himashi K. 3 years ago on Google
    I love this rock ...♥️♥️♥️ But I never gone to this rock temple....⛰️⛰️⛰️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 wishvajith w. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Elephant surgery (Original) හස්ති ශල්‍ය පුර
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Vishan d. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful scene on the top
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Samithu H. 1 year ago on Google
    Small,quick and enjoyable hike to the top. You can also worship the temple that is located on the top of the rock
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jagath Sapumal - G. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Nice view .. You can see the kurunegala town from the sky ... You can drive up the mountain ... Great place ..... The whole town of Kurunegala looks ... (Original) Nice view.. You can see the kurunegala town from the sky... කන්ද උඩටම වාහන යන්න පුලුවන... සුපිරිම තැනක්..... මුළු කුරුණෑගල නගරයම පේනව...

  • 5/5 Supun A. 11 months ago on Google
    Athugala rock is a very beautiful view.

  • 5/5 Malachi N. 3 months ago on Google New
    Visited in the rain but even so it was a bit or a marvel. Statue is huge and you can go inside to see some information about its construction etc. the only thing is to be careful when going to the toilet, the path there is VERY slippery when wet, and the toilet is a squat one, so I’d only go if I had to.

  • 5/5 Indrachapa L. 2 years ago on Google
    These views make the place memorable.There are six major rocks named as animals in Kurunegala.The largest among them is Ethagala or the "Elephant Rock" ( translation is actually tusker), reaches 325 metres. The shape of Ethagala resembles an Elephants. There are 2 ways to reach the top of the rock.😍😍❤️‍🔥at the top of the rock there is a giant Buddha statue🙏🙏

  • 5/5 Ishara D. 7 months ago on Google
    great view at early morning or evening

  • 5/5 indu b. 2 years ago on Google
    beautiful view point and statue in Kurunagala. ❤️😊

  • 5/5 Akila D. 2 years ago on Google
    Unique place & simple hike

  • 5/5 LAKMAL G. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place and beautiful nature

  • 5/5 Charith M. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful place in kurunegala

  • 5/5 Arunodya P. 2 years ago on Google
    Very attractive place

  • 5/5 prasa s. 9 months ago on Google
    The city of Kurunegala is very beautiful from above on this hill. precious wow

  • 5/5 Damitha L. 2 years ago on Google
    Great view. Not too crowded, but not favourable to visit alone

  • 5/5 Madu R. 2 years ago on Google
    Athugala also called as ethagala is a very splendid rock that overlooks the Kurunegala town in Sri Lanka. Athugala is situated just around 1km away from Kurunegala town. The rock gets the name “athugala” due to its shape of an elephant. This is "the" iconic landmark of Kurunegala. You could select two ways to reach to the top of the rock. Either following the steps in the rock or riding your vehicle to the top. Walk to the top of the rock is little tiring and take around 15-20mins, but you'll forget that by watching around. Sometimes, you can find few monkey groups in the middle of the rock. So, it is always better to watch out your stuff. As you reach to the top of the rock you could see the temple (Athugala Viharaya) and massive snow white Buddha statue. This temple houses to the huge 88 ft Buddha statue. The great bare rock mountain provides a perfect setting for the Buddha statue. The night view of the Buddha statue from Kurunegala town is simply a breath taking view. Only the snow white Buddha statue can be seen in the sky while the whole surrounding is in dark. It is like the Buddha statue is floating in the sky. It is a worth visit view and these views make the place memorable.

  • 5/5 Charith M. 2 years ago on Google
    Kurunegala District is in the North-Western Province of Sri Lanka, locating it in the middle of the country. Many of the tourist destinations of these districts are based on mountain summits, caves, and sacred temples. Athugala is one of the prominent landmarks of Kurunegala. The locals use the name of Athugalpuraya to identify the town

  • 5/5 Sadul R. 4 years ago on Google
    Athugala Elephant Rock is a prominent venue of the Royal Capital Sri Lanka, the Kurunegala. Kurunegala is in the North-western Province and nearly 45km from Kandy. Kurunegala is surrounded by rocks and the Ethagala or elephant rock is the largest among them. The rock is 325meters height and resembles the gigantic shape of an elephant. According to myths, the area around the elephant rock was experienced a severe drought which result scarcity of water for animals and those endangered animals later turned as large rocks. The myth was designed to suit the meaning of athugala, the large elephant. The way along the rock path is very eco friendly. At the top of the rock there is an 88ft Buddha statue was placed. The Kurunegala town is very scenic to view from the top the rock. The devotees, mountain climbers and teenagers who like hiking are more common to visit the elephant rock. Also the tourists of local and foreign too make a visit here.

  • 5/5 Infinite M. 3 years ago on Google
    The most beautiful place in the kurunegala city..

  • 5/5 Chamitha de A. 5 years ago on Google
    Lovely to watch the sunset. Plenty of monkeys to accompany you to watch the sun set. :-)

  • 5/5 Avishka K. 6 years ago on Google
    This is the Signature of the kurunegala. There's a Buddha's statue in the top of the rock. You can get a good view of the kurunegala city from here.

  • 3/5 Isuru L. 5 years ago on Google
    You can drive your vehicle to the peak. Access road is good. But drive slow. Be aware of monkeys. Do not let your children get closer to monkeys. Keep your hat. It will be usefull in daytime. Fantastic view from the rock. Buddha statue is the main atraction. Good place for photographers.

  • 5/5 Buddhika P. 4 years ago on Google
    Worth everything you have to sacrifice to get there

  • 5/5 Tech S. 7 years ago on Google
    This is good religious place in Sri Lanka. I advice to all please kindly go there and see. But do not try to destroy the environment. I prefer you climb the rock by walking.

  • 5/5 Roshana M. 3 years ago on Google
    Most Beautiful Place in the Kurunegala city.

  • 4/5 Dhanuka B. 3 years ago on Google
    Here you can see the best view of kurunagala city.

  • 5/5 Rashmika D. 3 years ago on Google
    Highest place in the kurunegala ❤🇱🇰

  • 5/5 lakmal a. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing palce

  • 5/5 Piyum S. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely place

  • 5/5 Nisham D. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Kurunegala (Original) කුරුණෑගල

  • 5/5 Lewis T. 2 years ago on Google
    View at night is gorgeous 😍

  • 5/5 Sanath G. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Statue of Athugala Buddha (Original) ඇතුගල බුද්ධ ප්‍රතිමාව

  • 5/5 Kartik I. 4 years ago on Google
    Good place. Gives a 360 degree view of the town.

  • 5/5 Welgamp W. 4 years ago on Google
    Wonderful place in Kurunegala town and you can get a fantastic view around The Buddha statue on the summit also a site to relax your mind so any way mind your step while you are at the edge !!!

  • 5/5 Pium c. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Pinbarayi😍😍 (Original) පින්බරයි😍😍

  • 5/5 Mahaweli L. 4 years ago on Google
    A beautiful place. A view point to see the giant city of Kurunegala.

  • 5/5 Kasyapa Jayo B. 4 years ago on Google
    What a beautiful place , you must visit

  • 5/5 Basura J. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place, you can have 360 view of the city. This is good place to visit if you are travelling through Kurunegala town.

  • 5/5 Chathuranga D. 4 years ago on Google
    Athugala (Elephant Rock)Kurunegala

  • 5/5 Dilan R. 4 years ago on Google
    In ancient time kurunegala known as ඇතුගල්පුර because of the shape of the rock.and now theres a big buddha statue top of the rock.its a tourists attraction and the view is breathtaking when sun down.

  • 4/5 Amazing Top 1. 5 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place

  • 5/5 Nipuna B. 2 years ago on Google
    I love to be on this rock at night time. It has a nice veiw . You can see whole town from this place.


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