There are three notable landmarks in the well-known Cultural Triangle which includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site. A preserved island cave temple complex with great historical and cultural significance is the Dambulla Temple. In the story of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress a patricidal king gained power but eventually fell leaving behind a lasting legacy. In the meantime one of nature’s most amazing wildlife phenomena occurs each year between August and September when a magnificent group of elephants congregate at the Minneriya Tank.
Sigiriya and the nearby sites are entwined with nature, tradition and history. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a great place to start the day. Its most famous features are the enormous lion paws at the entrance, the intriguing frescoes halfway up the rock, and the remains of a former palace. Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, another UNESCO World Heritage site that tells enthralling tales, marvel at the exquisite statues and artwork. Discover the cultivation of the tropical herbs and spices used in everyday cooking during a guided tour of a Matale spice garden. Your day will end with a thrilling jeep safari tour within Minneriya National Park where you’ll observe Asia’s biggest elephant population. The amazing wildlife will leave a permanent mark in your memory when you observe them in their natural environment.