Joanna James
Habarana located in the north central province of Sri Lanka is part of the cultural triangle. The place is ideal for wildlife enthusiast, exploring diverse eco-systems and enjoying rugged adventures.
Kaudulla is for elephant lovers; the place was opened in 2002 and was designed to accommodate the huge mammals that migrate to the area in large herds. Centred around an ancient tank built by one of the country's most illustrious kings Mahasen the park is also a sanctuary to endemic and endangered species of birds. The tank which had fallen to ruin was restored in 1959 and now supplies water to the many plant and animal species that thrive in Kaudulla. A bonus would be sights of the rare rusty spotted cat trying its hand at fishing in the tank while the main feature is the herds of elephants that migrate across the park. August to December is high season for spotting herds of over a hundred pachyderms within this rustic park.
Habarana is a marvellous adventure for animal lovers; the Habarana jungle and Minneriya National Park are sanctuaries for all manner animals. Veteran trackers are available to take visitors on memorable safaris across the savannah like glades of Habarana. You most likely will be able to spot plenty of wildlife around your hotel in Habarana as these beautiful resorts strive to offer guests a taste of the areas rustic wild beauty; highly reflective of this fact are the Grey Langur and Toque Macaque monkeys that grace the premises of places like Cinnamon Lodge Habarana.
Ritigala is a treasured nature reserve that is a total of 3776 acres of mountain and lush vegetation. There are four peaks in the mountain range with the highest and most popular being Ritigala Kanda hill. The hill is the highest in the North Central region and holds within its folds and ancient monastery.
The most famous fair in Habarana is the Irida Pola or Sunday Fair. The place is an explosion of local culture and colours as villagers gather here to peddle their ware. Local fruits, vegetables, clothes and handicrafts are on display and capture the interest of both visiting locals and tourists. This would be the ideal market to pick up gifts and souvenirs to take back. Another experience is the bullock cart ride into a charming village. A service provided by many Habarana hotels these bumpy rides in the back of a medieval type cart along windy dirt roads are experiences to savour.
Habarana under the silvery light of the moon is quite magical. A walk around the premises of village style Sri Lanka resorts in Habarana will yield sights of nocturnal animals such as the cat snake, palm civet, fish owl and ringtail civet. Enjoy the warm balmy weather, cooling breezes and sounds of the night as you explore under the watchful eyes of experienced guides and naturalists provided by the hotel.
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