population: 1.43 million

extension: 4.77 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Kurunegala and interested in visiting museums, I would recommend visiting the Ridi Vihara Museum which is located in the Ridi Vihara temple complex. It houses a collection of ancient artifacts and items related to Buddhism. If you're interested in similar museums, you may also want to consider visiting the National Museum of Colombo or the Anuradhapura Folk Museum which are both located in Sri Lanka.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Kurunegala (Sri Lanka) according to local people are:

1. Kiribath: It is a traditional Sri Lankan dish made of rice cooked with coconut milk and served with various curries.

2. Kottu Roti: A popular street food made by chopping up flatbread, vegetables, eggs, and meat (optional), and mixing them together with spices on a hot griddle.

3. Parippu Curry: A lentil-based curry made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices.

4. Hoppers: A type of pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, usually eaten for breakfast or dinner.

5. Pol Sambol: A spicy coconut relish made of grated coconut, chili peppers, onion, lime juice, and salt.

6. Lamprais: A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice boiled in stock with various meats, wrapped in banana leaf, and then baked.

7. Wambatu Moju: A sweet and sour eggplant pickle made with vinegar, sugar, onions, and Sri Lankan spices.

8. Fish Ambulthiyal: A dry fish curry made with chunks of tuna or other fish, roasted spices, and plenty of tamarind.

These dishes are readily available in many restaurants and eateries in Kurunegala and are well-loved by locals and visitors alike.

Activities

Some popular activities that local people enjoy in Kurunegala include visiting the Kurunegala Lake and taking a leisurely walk around it, exploring the historic Kurunegala Rock Fortress, and visiting the Athugala Elephant Rock which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can also try some local street food in the town center or visit the Kurunegala Market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and pick up some locally grown produce.