We left our Villa early in the morning – at around 7:30 am and made first stop in the city of Polonnaruwa (about 40 minutes after driving from Sigiriya). I’m talking about the place, that despite Buddhist’s sacred sites (believer is called Sanhil) also a Hinduism’s (believer is called Tamil) sacred establishments can be found. It’s due to their invasions into this territory from Indian subcontinent in the past. In fact, more you’re heading south of Srilanka, more Hinduism features exists. So, during today’s trip around we saw many royal palaces, monastries, irrigation systems, ponds intended for kings and queens relaxation and other remnants from both “religions”. We also visited one of the biggest museum exhibiting the models of above mentioned structures in their original form.
Polonaura tour was followed by visiting one of the local wood carving factory “Nishantha” and its big shoop. As you probably know Srilanka has a lot various types of wood (different trees), like mahogany, teak, palu and much more.
The next stop was intended for lunch break - on casual way as in the past days. Local one!
After wee filled up with delicious local food, the bus drove us to visit the silk store and factory nearby, where they also presented us their production. We bought some cheap clothes of course.
For the end of the day we were waiting just for the last feat yet. Climb to the top of Sigirya (Lion rock Sinhalese) an ancient rock fortress located near the town Dambulla (660 ft high). It is a site of historical and archeological significance and was selected by king Kasyaka (477 – 495 CE) for his new capital. The ascent was amazing !;)