Those seeking adventure and active excursions will find no shortage of things to do in the Cultural Triangle. Once the site of feuding kings and invading armies, it is perhaps no surprise that exploring this region has many different experiences to offer the adventurous, from clambering through forest in search of an ancient Buddhist monastery to going on an early-morning hot air balloon ride over the dramatic plains.
Climb the many steps of Sigiriya Rock to reach fortress at the top, preceded by an enormous carved lion’s paw which is said to be the surviving part of a full lion sculpture, and rest whilst taking in the spectacular views and exploring what was once a grand palace refuge. If you are feeling really energised, clamber up Pidurangala Rock, which also boasts some ancient ruins and offers stunning views of Sigiriya Rock from the summit. Cycle around the extensive ruins of Anuradhapra or Polonnaruwa; trek through the surrounding wilderness in search of Kaludiya Pokuna, an ancient Buddhist temple, or journey through Ritigala Nature Reserve to find the partially excavated ruins of an extensive Buddhist monastery which was abandoned in the 11th century.
Pidurangala Rock
Sigiriya, Cultural Triangle
Whilst building Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the 5th century AD, King Kasyapa moved the monks who lived around Sigiriya to Pidurangala Rock, and an ancient cave temple still remains here.
Duration: 3 hours
Best time: Year-round
Sri Lanka Hot Air Ballooning
Kandalama, Cultural Triangle
Rise at dawn and soar above the wide plains and clusters of jungle which cover the Cultural Triangle, an area of Sri Lanka which is littered with dramatic ancient ruins dating back over 2,000 years.
Duration: 3 hours
Best time: November to April
