Joanna James
Sigiriya, a town located in the central part of Sri Lanka is well-known for the Sigiriya Rock. However, there's a lot more in and around the town. Here are some ideas.
Habarana is another town about 20 minutes away from Sigiriya and is popular for safaris. Most safaris commence here as the grand sanctuary and the Habarana Jungle are in close proximity. The nature trail will take you on an educated walk through the village and nature where you will be able to spot many birds and animals. Please be mindful when you are confronted with an animal. Do not feed them!
This is a surreal experience that might be a little indulgent but worth every cent. It is a unique experience where you get to float above Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle including the magnificent Sigiriya Fortress and National Parks. The bird's eye view will leave you feeling ecstatic. It is a great way to celebrate an important milestone or even use the opportunity to make a grand gesture to express your love! The most recommended riding time is during the sunrise as this gives you an even more surreal experience.
It would be almost criminal to visit Sigiriya and forego a UNESCO World Heritage Site that continues to be an engineering marvel! The rock was chosen by King Kashyapa as his fortress to ensure he had a vantage point. The fortress was built in 477 CE and despite the time, the fortress is an example of some elaborate and advanced construction. There are gardens and water fountains that make it more beautiful and the popular frescoes that don the walls of the fortress are a sight not to miss.
Just opposite the Sigiriya Rock is the Pidurangala Rock, where hikers go to witness an unobscured view of the majestic rock looming opposite. The preferred plan of travel is to first visit the Pidurangala Rock, which would take about 10 minutes to climb if you are an experienced hiker or about 30 minutes. The climb is fairly easy except for the last bit where it gets a tad steeper. During sunrise, the mist isn't too much and as the land below basks itself in the glorious sun rays, it truly is a Lion King moment! You could have a small breakfast picnic before you climb down and then head to the Sigiriya Rock.
After all that hiking and going around filling your days with adventure, what is more, blissful than to get yourself a well-deserved stay at a luxury Sigiriya hotel. There are quite a few to choose from and the Water Garden Sigiriya Hotel is a good option.
An adventure is not merely limited to only outdoor activities; take your taste-buds on a roller-coaster of the Lankan flavourville that stops at spicy, sour and sweet stations. The spices and flavours can be adventurous to some!
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