Sigiriya rock rising above the forest at the end of the garden path

Sigiriya Rock Climbing

Climb the fifth-century rock fortress, past its frescoes and lion gate, to the palace ruins on the summit.

Two visitors on the summit of Pidurangala looking out at Sigiriya rock

Pidurangala Rock Climbing

A shorter, rougher climb to a summit with the finest view of Sigiriya rock across the forest.

A stone-paved path running through the green forest at Ritigala

Ritigala Medicinal Forest Visit

Stone paths lead through the forest to the ruins of an ancient monastery on the slopes of Ritigala.

A herd of elephants with their calves crossing the grassland at Minneriya

Minneriya Safari

Jeep safari through Minneriya National Park, known for the herds of elephants that gather on its grasslands.

Two elephants sheltering a calf on the grass beside the Kaudulla reservoir

Kaudulla Safari

Elephants, water birds and open plains around the Kaudulla reservoir, a short drive from Habarana.

Visitors in a safari jeep photographing elephants beside a lake

Habarana Safari

Open-top jeep safaris set out from Habarana to see elephants in the wild.

A raft on Habarana lake at sunset with hills beyond

Habarana Lake

A calm stretch of water at the edge of town, at its best on a boat at sunrise or sunset.

Seated Buddha statues around a stupa beneath the painted ceiling of the Dambulla cave temple

Dambulla Cave Temple

Cave shrines filled with Buddha statues and painted ceilings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Carved guardstones and stone pillars at an ancient temple ruin in Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa & Anuradhapura

Easy access to the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura.