While most blogs talk about the famous, UNESCO recognized World Heritage Sites – Lion’s Rock in Sigiriya and the Dambulla Cave Temples, there’s indeed no denying that these are remarkably worth visiting! But today, we are going to talk about the off-the-beaten path attractions that make Sigiriya and Dambulla a must include during your holiday in Sri Lanka.
Pidurangala Rock
Pidurangala Rock is located a few kilometers north of Sigiriya and is a quieter and less crowded counterpart. It has a rich history tied to the monastery that was established there during King Kasyapa’s reign. Pidurangala also offers a rewarding hike. It is more challenging compared to Sigiriya. However, the summit provides a stunning view of Sigiriya Rock itself and the surrounding landscapes, especially at sunrise and sunset. At the base of Pidurangala, there is a reclining Buddha statue made of brick, which is one of the oldest in Sri Lanka.
Difference between Pidurangala and Lion’s Rock
- Historical Significance: Sigiriya is an ancient fortress with royal gardens and frescos, while Pidurangala has historical importance as a monastic site.
- Hiking Experience: Pidurangala offers a more rugged and natural hiking experience, whereas Sigiriya involves climbing a series of staircases and pathways.
- Crowds: Sigiriya is popular and crowded with tourists, while Pidurangala is less crowded and offers a quieter experience.
- Views: Both provide stunning views, but Pidurangala offers a unique perspective overlooking Sigiriya Rock.
Sigiriya and Dambulla Village Tour
The Sigiriya Village Tour offers a rich cultural immersion. It provides a deeper understanding of Sri Lankan rural life, customs, and traditions. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of picturesque landscapes. This includes paddy fields, lakes, and lush greenery. At the same time, they can engage with locals, participate in cooking, and take part in various village activities. The tour provides a peaceful atmosphere, offering a break from crowded tourist sites and allowing for a more relaxed and authentic experience.
- Bullock Cart Ride: The tour typically begins with a ride on a traditional bullock cart. This is a common mode of transport in rural Sri Lanka. As you travel along scenic paths through paddy fields and local villages, you get a feel of the slow-paced village life and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Catamaran Ride on a Lake: A catamaran ride follows the bullock cart ride, on a serene lake. Local fishermen sometimes guide these rides, allowing you to see how they fish using traditional methods.
- Village Walk and Cooking Demonstration: After the lake ride, visitors go through a local village. Here they can observe daily activities, such as farming, vegetable gardening, and cottage industries. One of the main attractions of the village tour is a cooking demonstration by a local villager. This is often done using a traditional mud stove. The meal is served on lotus leaves or banana leaves, adding an authentic touch to the experience.
- Visit to a Local House: A stop at a local house gives visitors the chance to interact with villagers. They can learn about their lifestyle, and understand the traditional architecture of rural homes. You may also see demonstrations of crafts like pottery-making or weaving.
- Traditional Sri Lankan Lunch: The tour usually concludes with a home-cooked meal prepared by a local family.
Hurulu Eco Park
Hurulu Eco Park is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, just a few minutes from Sigiriya and Dambulla. It is part of the larger Hurulu Forest Reserve, a designated biosphere reserve by UNESCO. The park is popular for its rich biodiversity, especially its population of Asian elephants.
- Elephant Safaris: The park is a seasonal home to a large number of elephants, particularly during the dry season when they migrate in search of water and food. Visitors have the opportunity to observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat, often in large herds.
- Diverse Wildlife: In addition to elephants, Hurulu Eco Park is home to a variety of wildlife. This includes leopards, sloth bears, deer, wild boar, jackals, and numerous bird species. The park’s rich ecosystem supports many endemic and migratory bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Scenic Landscapes: From dense forests and scrublands to open plains and water bodies, you see a picturesque backdrop for wildlife safaris. The varied terrain supports a wide range of plant species. This includes medicinal plants and rare flora, contributing to the park’s ecological diversity.
- Conservation Efforts: As part of the Hurulu Forest Reserve, the eco park plays a vital role in the conservation of Sri Lanka’s wildlife and natural habitats. The park’s management focuses on sustainable tourism practices to minimize the impact on the environment and protect its biodiversity.
Habarana Lake
Habarana Lake is a scenic man-made reservoir located in the small town of Habarana. It is a popular stop recommended by Travel Treasures Sri Lanka, for travellers exploring the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, which includes Sigiriya and Dambulla. Surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife, the lake provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the more crowded tourist sites.
The area around the lake is abundant with flora and fauna, including tall grasses, water lilies, and a variety of birds. The scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset, make it an ideal spot for photography and relaxation. One of the most popular activities on Habarana Lake is a boat ride. Traditional wooden catamarans or small canoes are available for hire, offering a leisurely and intimate way to explore the lake.
Habarana Lake is a haven for birdwatchers. The lake and its surrounding environment attract a wide range of bird species, including egrets, kingfishers, cormorants, and herons. Visitors can enjoy watching these birds in their natural habitat. Ideally, in the early morning or late afternoon when bird activity is at its peak.
The area around Habarana is known for its elephant population, and it is not uncommon to spot elephants near the lake, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Sometimes, visitors can see elephants bathing or drinking water at the lake’s edge, adding a unique wildlife experience to the visit.
Elephant Encounters in Sigiriya and Dambulla
Elephant rides in the Sigiriya and Dambulla area have traditionally been a popular activity for tourists seeking a close-up encounter with these majestic animals. Visitors often ride on the back of an elephant through lush forests, villages, and around scenic locations like Habarana Lake.
Elephant rides usually take place in the outskirts of the town. Elephants are guided along specific routes that pass-through forests, rural landscapes, and by water bodies like lakes or rivers. The rides typically last between 30 minutes to an hour, providing an elevated perspective of the surroundings. Some tours may also include a chance to feed the elephants or watch them bathe in the lake.
Get in touch with our team of travel consultants and plan your holiday in Sri Lanka with a couple of days in Sigiriya and Dambulla to explore these hidden treasures!