Sigiriya
After Breakfast proceed to Sigiriya Area and climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress (approx. 3 hours).
The 5th century rock citadel of King Kasyapa and World Heritage Site – Sigiriya – is testament to ancient Sri Lankan engineering & urban planning supremacy. Step through the gigantic ‘Lion Paws’ – overlooking the symmetrical royal gardens below – to comprehend the absolute splendour that once dominated this rock fortress. Surrounded by ramparts & moats, magnificent Lion Rock is coated in frescoes related to Gupta-style paintings found in the Ajanta caves of India. Examine the ancient (600AD) graffitied ‘mirror wall’, embracing the Western face of Sigiriya.
Then, be driven from Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa (approx. 55 kms). Enjoy included lunch in Polonnaruwa at a village residence, overlooking the paddy fields.
This afternoon, visit the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa (approx. 2-3 hours) Rising with the decline of Anuradhapura in the north, the city of Polonnaruwa upholds the ancient culture & heritage of the region. Walk across its scattered walls of the World Heritage Site – passing stupas, resting Buddha statues, irrigation canals and fantastically carved Hindu sculptures. Observe the relic house – Watadage – which homes beautiful Hindu-influenced stone carvings. Or sit by the side of Galviharaya and observe the absolute beauty of its huge Buddhist statues. Return to Sigiriya for the evening.