Top 4 Romantic and Adventurous Things To Do In Dambulla
Dambulla is found at the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, which refers to an area of land where most of the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites are located. Dambulla was at the crossroads of three different kingdoms- Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy- and so the town has been influenced by each kingdom in many ways.
Ideal for a romantic getaway, the town covers an interesting mix of history, culture and adventure. Here are the top 4 romantic and adventurous things to do in Dambulla.
Visit Sigiriya
Sigiriya is undoubtedly the most iconic structure in Sri Lanka. This ancient rock fortress was built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa and it is both an architectural phenomenon as well as a historical marvel.
Kashyapa ruled over the region between 477 – 495 AD, but his ascent to power was not an easy one. To success as king, Kashyapa committed patricide and usurped his half-brother who later fled to India in fear for his life. Despite his rather violent (and dramatic) rise to the throne, Kashyapa had a flair of extravagance and adorned his fortress with palatial pools, planned gardens, fountains, terraces, beautiful frescoes and its famous Lion Paw steps.
It takes about an hour or two to reach the summit of the fortress, and once you get to the top you will be greeted with a stunning view of the endless rolling green plains of the Central Province. If you’re planning to pop the big question, the summit is a breathtaking place that will be almost impossible to say No to!
Hike Pidurangala
Before Kashyapa took over Sigiriya, monks used to inhabit the caves and the jungles around. Once he came into power, Kashyapa moved the monks to the neighbouring hill, Pidurangala, and built them a temple there as an offering. The trail to the summit will take you past the remnants of the statue of the Buddha, breathtaking views and navigating around massive boulders in order to reach the top. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be blessed with a jaw-dropping, unhindered view of the neighbouring Sigiriya Rock directly opposite you.
Safari at Minneriya National Park
Minneriya National Park is the #1 place on the island to see elephants and it is also where the largest gathering of Asian elephants takes place. The gathering takes place during the dry season which is from June/July and lasts till September. Elephants are forced to come out into the open plains, so you will see 200-500 elephants almost all at once. Embark on an exciting safari in Minneriya National Park; a once in a lifetime experience that will be made even better if you hire a jeep just for you and your partner.
Hot Air Ballooning
There is perhaps nothing more romantic than a hot air balloon ride, except maybe a hot air balloon in the Cultural Triangle! Going on a hot air balloon ride is truly a once in a lifetime experience; as you float above green plains, farmlands, jungles and even above Sigiriya! It is truly a magical experience that is made even better when you catch a sunrise or sunset – use this guide to help you plan your excursion.
