Sigiriya Rock and Minneriya from Kandy

Rising from the central plains, the iconic rocky outcrop of Sigiriya is perhaps Sri Lanka's single most dramatic sight. Near-vertical walls soar to a flat-topped summit that contains the ruins of an ancient civilization, thought to be once the epicentre of the short-lived kingdom of Kassapa, and there are spellbinding vistas across mist-wrapped forests in the early morning. Sigiriya refuses to reveal its secrets easily, and you'll have to climb a series of vertiginous staircases attached to sheer walls to reach the top.

On the way, you'll pass a series of quite remarkable frescoes and a pair of colossal lion's paws carved into the bedrock. The surrounding landscape – lily-pad-covered moats, water gardens and quiet shrines – and the excellent site museum, only add to Sigiriya's rock-star appeal. Thereafter proceed to Hiriwaduna to experience a village tour. (20 to 30 mins)Village tour includes bullock cart ride, catamaran safari and experience in a Chena cultivation.after an amazing a time you will enjoy a traditional village lunch at a local home. Bullock Cart (Double Ox Cart, a traditional way of transport) which will transport you through the next phase of the adventure. The journey continues through the archetypal Sri Lankan Typical village.

The journey begins with an awesome cart ride through paddy fields to a bund of a manmade reservoir. The reservoir itself, the surrounding scrub jungle, marshland and village are a hive of early morning or evening activity. The amazing birdlife, butterflies and possible sightings of crocodile only add to the charm of seeing the villagers as they go about their early morning tasks of fishing, or washing clothes at the periphery of the lake. Thereafter you will go on a catamaran safari On arrival to the bund you will meet catamaran rider, he will take you on a lovely safari through the scenic reservoir and wade through to a Chena cultivation.