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Water Sport

White Water Rafting

This activity is as interesting as it sounds. There’s nothing like the great adrenaline rush of speeding down the rivers as the raft manoeuvres between rocks and obstacles in the water.

Sri Lanka is packed with bodies of water, so you’re bound to find a place that fits your liking.

This is all based off of river dynamics, and the raft crosses over stretches of major and minor rapids, so you’re definitely going to be in for one bumpy ride.

Anything you should know

Contrary to popular belief, this activity isn’t as hard as it’s made out to be. Yet, knowing how to swim would definitely be advantageous. You can take a guide along with you to ensure that you make your journey safely, and you will even be provided with protective gear like helmets and life jackets.

This could go on for an hour or even more. It is advised that people who aren’t comfortable in the midst of such turbulence shouldn’t participate as it is quite exhilarating; so it would only be for the extremely adventurous.

Some of these rivers are better for people who have experience in this activity, but you don’t have to miss out. Start from the bottom with the easier options, and slowly move up to the harder routes.

Where to go

The most famous place for this activity would be Kithulgala; which is in the Western part of the country. You will be rafting in the 4th longest river in the country, and also the place where parts of the famous film The Bridge on the River Kwai was filmed; the Kelani river. Going to Kitulgala between May and December would increase your chances of having a better experience in the area.

The next best place would be in Avissawella, which is also in the Western province. Here, you will be riding through the Sitawaka river. This river is for the more experienced rafters, as it does require a lot more maneuvering.

You could also ride along the longest river in the country; the Mahaweli river. The stretch that this activity usually takes place in runs in the Central province from Ulapane in to Gampola. This too, is also for more experienced rafters.

The ride down the river Kotmale -the longest tributary of the Mahaweli river- is definitely for advanced rafters, as it can go on for around 6 hours, and involves lots of turbulence. Starting at the beginning of St. Clair’s falls -the widest waterfall in the country- the river will take you from Hatton to Nuwara Eliya. The views that come at this altitude are breathtaking enough to motivate anyone want to do it.

Although it does sound quite scary, you’ll be extremely satisfied with the thrill that you get from it. This is the sort of activity that people have on their bucket lists; so conquer your fears, and cross it off of yours in the exotic waters of Sri Lanka.

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Water Sport

Whale and Dolphin Watching

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Being an island, Sri Lanka is surrounded by the Indian Ocean in all of its glory; packed with marine life. The largest creatures to ever live on this planet thrive beneath these blue waters, and are a beautiful sight to see. With this activity you will get the chance to see the creatures that occasionally rise to the surface; whales and dolphins.

The whales in Sri Lanka don’t seem to be migrating away from its waters, but instead they move around the coasts. This makes Sri Lanka the ideal place for whale watching as it can be done all year round.

Anything you should know

You will be provided with a boat, a driver, a guide, and life jackets when you go whale watching. It would be an overall better experience if you are someone who doesn’t mind spending a few hours on a boat in the middle of the sea alongside the salt and sun. Some of these boats even have toilets, and may provide snacks for your journey. If you tend to get sea sick, purchase some seasick tablets from any pharmacy.

The largest blue whale colony in the world was found in Sri Lanka. These whales must be protected, as they are endangered; which is why it is requested that you keep your distance from them while you are on your boat ride. It is important that we respect all the life in the sea, and maintain certain boundaries. This also means that everything you take in to the sea should come back to the land with you.

Where to go

The Southern, Eastern, and Western coasts of Sri Lanka are all well known places when it comes to whale watching.

The best place to go whale watching would be Dondra Point, which can be accesssed from Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Weligama, Tangalle, or even Mirissa; which would be the closest of the lot. It is situated in the southernmost part of the island, and would be perfect for whale watching within the months of December to April. This spot is known for sights of plenty of sperm whales, blue whales, and even spinner dolphins.

Kalpitiya is in the Northwestern part of the country, and is a great spot to look at hundreds of dolphins at a time. Not only will you see spinner dolphins, but you may also see Indo-Pacific, bottlenose, Risso, and pink dolphins. Sperm whales, dwarf sperm whales, blue whales, and Melon headed whales can also be sighted in this area. The best time to visit would be from November to March.

Trincomalee is on the Northeastern coast of the country, and is known to be the spot for blue whales. Sperm whales and spinner dolphins can also be seen in this area. The best time to visit would be between March and April, and July to September.

Mirissa is situated in the southern part of the country, and has different species of whales varying from sperm whales to blue whale and even orcas and flying fish. The best time to visit would be from November to April.

Whale and dolphin watching is a great way to observe the marine life in Sri Lanka, but protecting these lives should be prioritized so that we don’t end up being the reason for their extinction. Overall doing this activity is bound to guarantee that you have a whale of a time!

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Water Sport

Surfing

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There’s nothing that sounds more exotic than riding the waves in an exotic island. Sri Lanka is gifted with beautiful beaches all around the country; making it an ideal place for surfing. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you are sure to find the right tide for you.

Anything you should know

If you’re planning to head to the east of the island, the best time to go would be within the months of May to October, and if you want to go to the west it would be between November to April. This is because of the 2 Monsoon rains that affect Sri Lanka; which would not create the ideal weather condition for surfing, but this means that there is always a part of the country you can surf in regardless of which part of the year you visit in.

If you don’t know how to surf, you can always take some of the surfing classes offered by local businesses. These classes will also show you the best spots to surf in. These classes may also provide you with surfing equipment if you don’t have any; except for your own wetsuit, of course. There are also some places along the beach that rent out their boards to anyone who wants to catch a wave.

As this takes place in the sea, it is expected that you should be able to swim in case you fall off your board; even though there will be lifeguards on hand.

If you’re just starting out, learning how to surf can be tough, and you’ll probably want to give up each time you make a mistake. It takes a lot of willpower to succeed at is, so keep trying!

Where to go

One of the most famous spots for surfing would be Hikkaduwa; which is in the southwestern part of the country. The area was originally a fishing village, but is now one of the tourist hotspots. The area is filled with restaurants and bars you can spend your time in till you want to get in the water. The waves here are quite strong, and can vary from about 3-10 feet in height.

Unawatuna is another place in Southern Sri Lanka; known for its coral reefs and amazing beaches. This is only about 2 hours away from Colombo, making it the perfect place for a day trip as well. The reefs here are for the more experienced surfers. The area around the beach is also packed with places to lounge in when you’re not surfing.

Ahangama is in the Southern part of the country, and the waves here rise to about 5 feet, and can stretch out over around 350 m. This is also quite close to Galle, so you could head over there and visit the fort in a couple of minutes.

Mirissa is situated in the Southern part of the country, and is a great place for beginners and people who aren’t too great at surfing; the waves here rise to about 3 feet. The other great thing to catch in the area, besides the waves, would be the stunning sunsets and sunrises.

Arugam bay is on the southeast coast of the island. Within the months of April to October, the UK Pro Surfers association holds its Sri Lankan Surf Championships here; which you could even take part in. This is globally known as a good surf spot, and is also great for beginners.

Weligama is located towards the south of the country, and is another good place for people who are learning how to surf. The waves here are as long as 400 m, and rise to about 5 feet. You could head there early morning and surf through the sunrise.

These are the extremely popular areas for surfing, but besides that there are also others available; there’s Midigama, Matara, Bentota, Pottuvil, Talalla south, Okanda, Rathgama, Uppuvelli, Kalpitiya, Talpe, and Dikwella.

With the fact that Sri Lanka is surrounded by water, the next thing that makes it the ideal candidate for surfing expeditions is the fact that you can reach any part of the country within 24 hours. So when you’re planning your trip to Sri Lanka, make sure that you don’t miss out on the chance to surf wherever you can.

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Water Sport

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

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As Sri Lanka is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, it is known to have coral gardens that thrive with colourful varieties of exotic fish, and marine life; this makes it one of the greatest destinations for diving, and snorkeling. Dive beneath its cool waters and discover that there’s more to the sea than what you see at the surface.

Anything you should know

If you don’t know how to dive, that’s not a problem. There are many diving schools who will also provide the necessary equipment for you, but some places may allow skin diving. They may even teach you a special type of sign language used underwater for easy communication.

The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PAMI) also offers courses, and will give your the opportunity to earn a certificate that will permit you to move on to more advanced dives. Broadening your spectrum of opportunities of places to visit.

Guides who are well trained and experienced in this sector will accompany you to ensure your safety, and will show you all the best places to look.

Due to the Monsoon seasons it is advised that diving in the West Coast should be reserved from November to April, and in the East Coast from April to September for optimum results.

Where to go

Kalpitiya is known for its coral reef sanctuary, The Bar Reef; which is the largest in the island. It is home to over a 100 species of coral, and over 200 species or fish. Its biodiversity is probably the greatest in the entire Indian Ocean. Here, you could even spot some manta rays, turtles, and even reef sharks.

Hikkaduwa is situated in Southwestern part of the country, and is one of the most popular areas for these activities. It is said to even have more species of fish than the Great Barrier Reef, and is known as a nature reserve. Other sites for diving in the area would be Beruwala, Bentota, Weligama, and Unawatuna; where you can also go snorkelling at the famous Jungle Beach.

Nilaveli is situated to the Northwest of Trincomalee, and holds the well known Pigeon Island which is surrounded by corals; the ideal spot for snorkeling in crystal clear waters.

When it comes to the Western part of the country you could visit Negombo. The most visited diving sites here would be Diyamba Gala, Derana Gala, Lobster reef, and Hanova.

Great Basses and Little Basses are large reefs off the coasts of Kirinda in the South. These are for the adventurous, and are best visited within March and early April. The big fish like sharks and barracudas swim in these waters.

Scuba diving and snorkelling in a tropical country truly does create an authentic, unforgettable experience; which is why you should definitely add it to your list of things to do for when you reach the island!

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Water Sport

Kayaking

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As Sri Lanka is an island, it’s surrounded by the sea, and provides anyone who comes here an opportunity to go kayaking. Whether you choose to go to the West or the East, the sea around the island ensures that you have the most exhilarating experience as you glide through its waters.

This activity does not only mean that you get to row through the ocean, it’s a great way to get around to places and really experience Sri Lanka through nature. If you wanted to, you could even kayak to some diving sites which are too difficult to get to by swimming, and dmire all the marine life that thrives beneath the blue waters. You could even take some bait and fishing rods along with you, and turn it in to a fishing trip. If you’re a bird watcher, bring some binoculars along with you, because you’ll most probably see some colourful exotic birds. On a boat, your opportunities could be endless.

Anything should know

The best time to visit the East coast would be from April to September, and for the Western and Southern coasts it would be from November to April. This is because of the Monsoons that usually affect both sides annually.

Kayaking is extremely beneficial healthwise, and really helps you strengthen your body. It’s also quite a popular mode of transport for some locals living in the rural areas as it is relatively inexpensive, and also environmentally friendly. Who needs to spend money on gas when you could use your own arm strength?

If you don’t know how to kayak, there are always guides available who will supervise you and make sure that your entire trip takes place safely. Life jackets will also be provided in an case, but knowing how to swim would be an added benefit. The kayaking boats are usually available to rent out along the coasts of the beaches, so don’t worry about not having one.

Where to go

For beginners, the Samanalawewa Reservoir in the Sabaragamuwa province is an ideal place for beginners because of its calm waters. Its name translates in to “Butterfly Tank”, and is derived from the fact that the reservoir is somewhat shaped like a butterfly, and also because there are many butterflies in the area.

Weligama in the district of Matara too would be a good place for beginners. The area is known for its beautiful stretch of beaches, and it also happens to be a place where you can see stilt fishermen at work.

Weligama also has conditions to satisfy people who have more experience with kayaking, as does the Kalu Ganga; which flows from the center of the country in to the Indian Ocean.

Kalpitiya too is a great place for kayaking, and offers you a range from lagoons, to mangroves, and to the mouths of rivers. More open bodies of water are available for the more experienced people.

Hikkaduwa, in the Southwestern part of the country too has a lagoon in which you can do this sport. Along the way you even have the option of dropping your feet over the edge for a completely natural foot massage done by the fish that swim by.

Besides these more mainstream places; kayaking is also available in Yala. This is a great opportunity for anyone who would like to truly feel at one with nature. You may even spot a few wild animals in the distance.

Overall, kayaking is quite an exciting activity, and what better way is there to experience it than in the waters of an exotic island itself?

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Hill Country Adventure

Train Rides

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The best part about travelling around the country by train is that there is no traffic, and that’s a huge advantage in Sri Lanka. You can go almost anywhere without all the hustle and bustle of the main roads.

The most hectic part of these trips would probably be the train stations; vendors will try to get you to buy everything under the sun; from mango achcharu to colourful toy fans. Spend your money wisely, but don’t worry if you miss them at one station, because there will always be more at the next.

Communication might be difficult; as most locals either speak in Tamil or Sinhala, but some stations do have a window where English is spoken.

The tickets are relatively cheap depending on which class you ride in. Some trains have extra cars attached to them which provide air conditioning, and even snacks for your journey. The regular cars don’t have such comforts, but they do enhance the rustic feeling of travelling in a train.

There are 3 main rail lines in the country, and all of which have many stops at which you are free to get down and explore your surroundings.

The Coasts

The first one runs from the south of Colombo, past Aluthgama , Hikkaduwa, Galle, and Matara. On the way, you’ll pass some beaches; as these are all coastal towns; the perfect stop for anyone in the mood for some sun, sea, and sand.

There is also an option of travelling straight from Galle to Kandy on an express train. Your view would gradually change from the salty beaches to one of the most cultuo cities in Sri Lanka.

To the North

The next one runs North from Colombo, and goes through Anuradhapura; where you can visit the Sri Maha Bodhi tree; a descendant of the tree that Lord Buddha received enlightenment under. It also passes through Mannar; which holds the Our Lady of Madhu church, known to have a statue of Madonna-and-child which was brought by the Catholics in 1670. It also goes through Jaffna; which is not only known for its beaches, but also for beholding one of holiest sites in the country for Buddhists and Hindus; the Nainativu island. This route is a testimony of Sri Lanka’s multi religious nature.

The Hills

The tracks that lead east of Colombo run through the hill country; first through the cultural city of Kandy; where you can visit sites ranging from the sacred tooth relic to walking around the man-made Kandy lake. The next stop would be Nuwara Eliya; known for an abundance of tea plantations which you can admire either from your window seat, or by getting off and exploring them yourself. Then you will reach Ella; where you will get the chance to cross the famous Nine Arches bridge; a structure made out of nothing but rocks, brick, and cement. This also leads to Badulla; where you can visit the famous Dunhinda falls and enjoy the cool sprays of its waters.

The most scenic route is from Haputale to Ella. The tracks take you past acres of land covered in tea plantations, forest cover, and other greenery. The low temperature of the hill country is welcomed by anyone on this sunny island, and creates a calming atmosphere.

This is a great way to travel around the island as you can get all the views that the countryside has to offer without visiting those places individually. It’s safe to say that choosing to travel around the country by train would be the right track!

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Hill Country Adventure

Tea Plantation Tours

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If there’s one thing Sri Lanka is known for, it’s tea. Although the island is little, the reputation of Ceylon tea is the opposite. Sri Lanka is the 4th largest tea producer, and 2nd largest exporter in the world. There are plantations thriving all over the country; from the coastal areas of Ahangama to the hills of Nuwara Eliya. The quality of tea varies according to the elevation it grows at, giving Ceylon tea drinkers a wide spectrum to choose from.

Producers across the land open their gates to those who want to get a closer look at how their daily cup of tea came in to being. You will get the opportunity to walk along the trails that lead through the bushes, and watch as the tea pluckers work their way with precision; picking only the best leaves out of many. Inhale the rich aromas behind closed factory doors, and learn about the different processes that the leaves go through before they reach the stores.

Here are a few of the plantations that you should visit depending on which part of Sri Lanka you are in.

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya has an abundance of tea due to its vast hilly areas. The most famous Tea Factory in the area would be the Mackwoods Labookellie Tea center, now known as Damro, which is situated one shuttle bus ride away from Nuwara Eliya town.This place was also visited by Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales; where he sampled tea from a bush which had been planted by his father, Prince Phillip, back in 1954. Besides being a hit with the royal family, this factory is also known for its tours: which are free of charge. After roaming around the plantation and factory, you can sit down at their little cafe, and purchase some tea and cake.

The Pedro Tea Estate is where the first recorded planned tea planting took place in Sri lanka, under the guidance of James Taylor. The factory has a bit more historical value, as it still has some vintage machinery. Settle down for a while and buy some tea at the scenic little cafe perched over the tea plantations, where some of the bushes are known to be planted by famous personalities from around the world.

The Heritance Tea Factory in Nuwara Eliya offers a mini tea factory tour for its occupants, where you will be guided through the processes that their fully operating machinery goes through. They too have vintage machinery, and provide the opportunity of tea tasting, and purchasing.

The St Clair’s Tea Centre is a 100 year old planters cottage that’s situated near one of the widest waterfalls in the island, St Clair’s. Although it is not too big, this is the perfect place to sit down and enjoy a wide range of Ceylon tea with a panoramic view.

Ella

Situated on the outskirts of Haputale is the Dambatanne Tea Factory, where the famous Lipton Tea is manufactured. It was built by the Scottish tea baron, Sir Thomas Lipton; who is also known for being the reason as to why the Lipton Seat exists, another spot which is close by, and worth visiting. Here, you will get to learn the process of production for less than $2 per head.

Halpewatte Tea Factory is situated on top of a mountain,and has a guided tour which features a tea tasting session at their Sky Cafe. You will also be able to purchase their latest products, which is an added bonus to the view.

Kandy

The Kadugannawa Tea Factory is over 100 years old, and has free guided tours; which makes it quite the spontaneous destination. After travelling through the estate and the factory, you can have a complementary cup of tea, and purchase any of their other products that you want.

The Kurugama Tea Factory is also open for tours, has its products available for purchasing, and ends with a free cup of tea. They are also known for having antique machinery, and for their mini plantation which is free for exploration.

Ahangama

The Handunugoda Tea Estate is known for producing virgin white tea in Sri Lanka. This is also the closest tea plantation to the sea. The process of making virgin white tea was inspired by ancient Chinese tradition, and follows a procedure that ensures that non of the tea is touched by human hands. The tea is extremely beneficial healthwise, and can be purchased there itself. Although white tea is pricey, the tour of the factory is free, and even includes a complimentary cup of tea with a side of cake.

Why not look in to what makes Sri Lankan tea so special? How does such a small country have such a big name? these factories will tell you how, and are great for anyone who wants a new educational experience, or maybe even someone who wouldn’t mind a great conversational topic during tea time.

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Hill Country Adventure

Rock Climbing

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Rock climbing is a great way to test the limits of your strength. It requires a lot of physical, and mental strength, and will also be beneficial in both of those sectors. You will need the power to ascend, as well as the power to not give up.

Although it’s not very popular in the country, Sri Lanka is a good place for rock climbing, as it has a lot of rock formations around the country varying in levels of difficulty. There’s going to be something for you whether you’re a beginner or an expert.

Anything you need to know

As this is quite the extreme sport you would need to be moderately fit to do it. You will also have to be geared up in some well fitted shoes, gloves, and have harnesses, helmets, ropes, chalk powder, and a pouch as well. If you don’t have any of these; you may be able to rent them, or they may be provided for you if you are going through a hotel or any other company.

This activity can be dangerous, which is why it is suggested that you take a well trained guide along with you in order to ensure your safety. For the same reason, it is also better if you don’t do this alone, but with a group instead.

It’s best to go early in the morning so that you can avoid the harsh sun during the day, and it would also be safer to avoid going during the rainy seasons.

There are 2 types of rock climbing; aid climbing, and free climbing. The first is done with devices that are made purely to make sure that you get up and down the rocks safely, and the latter involves less devices, and requires a lot more of your own physical and mental effort.

Where to go

There aren’t many places where this activity is available, but given below are a few areas where rock climbing is known to be done.

Bambarakanda falls is situated in the Badulla district, and is the highest waterfall in the island. This is a great spot for both the experienced and inexperienced, as there is 1 professional path that is around 100 m high, and then 2 beginners paths for those who can’t conquer the other. The best time to do this would be between March and May, as the water flow is at its best, and also safe. The waters would either be too rough or too dry at any other time. Once you get to the top, you will be rewarded with a great view of the Eastern plains. After you descend, you can rest close to the refreshingly cool sprays of the falls.

The Kodigahakanda Sanctuary is in the district of Kalutara, and has 8 different routes for rock climbing. Each route is of a varying level of difficulty; ranging from 5C to 7B. It takes around 1 ½ hours to complete, and is one of the popular climbs done in the island due to its natural formation that makes it quite easy to get a grip on, and ascend.

Even though this activity can be extremely hard, but results in an incredible view. It’s beneficial healthwise, and it shows you just how much you can conquer; making it an overall empowering experience.

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Hill Country Adventure

Mountain Biking

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Mountain biking is a great way to roam around the country in a way that is both more environmentally friendly, and extremely beneficial healthwise. The best part about Sri Lanka is that you can reach any place within the island in 24 hours. This means that mountain bikers can cover a large amount of distance in a short amount of time, and visit a significant number of places within one ride.

Sri Lanka also has a plethora of geographically diverse places, giving you many options to choose from. There are plains for the beginners, and then the central highlands for those who prefer a bit more of a challenge.

Anything you should know

It’s best not to do this activity in rainy weather, so avoiding the monsoon rains would be your best option; meaning that the period from December to March is when you should plan your trip.

If you’re in Nuwara Eliya and don’t have a mountain bike, there are some places that rent out bikes for around 1000 rupees for a day; such as Alpine Lodge, and Single Tree. It is also suggested that you bring a tool kit along with you, as there aren’t many bike shops around the area. If you’re going through a hotel, they may provide these for you as well.

Sri Lanka may be small, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get lost. Having a guide with you would definitely be helpful as they could show you all the best trails to take, and ensure that you get to see everything you wanted.

Mountain biking is mainly done in the central highlands, so given below are some trails that are usually taken by tourists.

The trails

The first trail is the most well known trail that’s followed in Sri Lanka would start off in the Kandy; a town that is enriched with Sri Lankan culture. This then leads over the Hantana mountain range, to Pusselawa, and then ends at a popular colonial hill station in Nuwara Eliya. Throughout this journey, you will mainly pass by paddy cultivations, tea plantations, hills, and have great views of stretches of land from a higher point.

The trail from Nuwara Eliya to Horton plains is also worth taking. Horton plains is a UNESCO world heritage site, and is known for its biodiversity and seemingly endless fauna and flora, some of which are endemic. This would be ideal for any plant, or bird enthusiast; as you can expect to see a lot of different species on the way, and even more when you get to Horton plains.

There are tracks connecting tea plantations to factories throughout the entire hill country. These tracks are also open to you. For example; you can ride through the tea plantations, say hello to the workers, and then find yourself at the Damro Labookelli Tea Factory. This allows you to take a little break with a cup of tea before continuing on the track.

Ella is also a popular destination because of the great views it has. Along the trail you can expect to see lots of tea plantations, waterfalls, mountain ranges, and other types of fauna and flora. This will also grant you the opportunity to visit the Nine Arches Bridge; a popular attraction where people wait for the train to pass by.

For wildlife, places like Anamuduwa and Habarana are ideal. Anamuduwa is situated in Puttalam, and holds the temple at Paramakanda rock; which holds murals that seem to combine both Buddhism and Hinduism. If you’re going through this trail, visiting this temple would be worth it as it really emphasizes on the fact that Sri Lanka is a multi religious country.

Habarana is a regular starting point; which is in close proximity to both Sigiriya, and Pidurangala. This trail is one that goes through a lot of villages, giving you the chance to catch a glimpse of the rural life as you pass through. The scenery is also packed with plantations, where you will also see the tree houses and huts in which the farmers stay in to protect their crops; their main source of income. This is nothing like the city, and is quite the serene path.

Get the rustic experience of exploring the hill country of Sri Lanka with the exhilaration of being on a bike. You’ll really feel like a free bird who’s made its connection with nature, especially since you’ll be saving money on gas.

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Hiking and Trekking

Sigiriya Rock

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Sigiriya is in the district of Matale, and is known to be the home of UNESCO’s 8^th wonder of the world, Sigiriya rock. The rock holds the ruins of the late King Kashyapa’s “Sky Palace”. What remained of an ancient volcano was carved and chiseled to look like a lion, which is known to be symbolic of pride and royalty. Today, only the paws of the lion on either side of the staircase remain.

Plan your trip

There are 1200 steps that have to be climbed in order to reach the top of the rock; keep in mind that it will also be crowded on the way. The best way to avoid the traffic would be by going on weekdays, and not on public holidays. The gates open at 7 am, so starting a little after that is advisable.

The ideal weather for this activity would be from January to April, and from July to September. It can be quite windy, as well as sunny; so be prepared for both instances.

There are some areas which don’t allow flash photography. If these rules are not followed, there is a possibility that your camera equipment will be confiscated.

If you plan your climb through a hotel, they are most likely to provide a guide for you, but if they don’t there are also reliable guide books that you can purchase. You should also expect to see a colorful array of vendors selling products from fizzy drinks to snacks at the foot of the rock.

There is also a museum that you can visit which the payment for your ticket covers.

The Gardens

One of the gardens consists of old toppled boulders that once held the fortress together. Upon close inspection, some inscriptions can be seen on them.

There are also water gardens with ancient bathing pools which were built for the pleasure of the royals, and fountains that thrived on the principles of gravity and pressure. These hydraulic systems are testimonies to the advanced architectural technology that existed at the time.

The Frescoes

The walls of the caves in the rock are decorated with the paintings of nude women; perhaps the King’s wives, concubines or even nymphs. These women are known as the Sigiriya’s damsels.

These paintings are the only non-religious paintings to survive in Sri Lanka.

Although some of the damsels hold the mistakes of the artist; like a few extra hands, they are still captivating in their beauty.

The Mirror wall

A wall that used to be highly polished so that the King could see his own reflection in it still stands to this day. It is now known as a graffiti wall, and holds the writings and poems of visitors that date back to the 8^th century. Although this is not allowed anymore, some of the words on this wall can still be read, and are enriched with the beauty of Sri Lankan literature.

The Summit

The remains of what once was a great palace can be seen at the top of the rock, perched on the different levels, as well the gardens that its occupants maintained. Surrounding it all is a bird’s eye view that stretches over forest cover and the vast expanse of the ocean; truly gaining it’s right to be the “Sky palace”.

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