Discovering the Ancient Wonders of Kalutara

Kalutara, a serene coastal town in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. As you embark on a weekend journey through this enchanting region, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes. The weather on February 8th is perfect for exploration, with clear skies in the morning and a comfortable temperature range, making it an ideal day to delve into the rich history of the area.

Begin your adventure with the Sigiriya-Dambulla Day Trip tour, which starts at 4:00 AM. This all-inclusive excursion takes you to two of Sri Lanka’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Dambulla Golden Rock Cave Temple. As you ascend the Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress, you’ll be captivated by the ancient frescoes and the panoramic views from the summit. The Dambulla Temple, with its intricate sculptures and historical significance, offers a glimpse into the island’s spiritual past.

“Sigiriya Fort and Dambulla Rock temple trip - Highly recommend trip to Sigiriya fort and Dambulla rock temple. We booked the trip from home via Bentota Travel Mart which included all entrance fees, guides and lunch. Ishan drove us safely to all the excursion and pointed out interesting things on the way. I would recommend to have a guide at Sigiriya fort as from just climbing up the fort by yourself you don’t get the inside of the place. The guide was very knowledgeable and explained everything well. Just be aware there are lots of steps to climb. For the Dambulla rock temple we also had a guide so you could understand the history behind the sculptures and various rooms. Highly recommend using Bentota Travel Mart for your excursions.” - Reviewed on 2024-09-30

Embracing Nature’s Majesty

On February 9th, the weather remains warm and inviting, albeit with overcast skies. This sets the stage for a different kind of exploration—one that brings you closer to nature’s wonders. The Udawalawe Safari offers an unforgettable experience, allowing you to witness the majestic elephants and diverse wildlife of Sri Lanka up close. The safari begins at 4:30 AM, providing ample time to explore the Udawalawe National Park and its lush surroundings.

As you embark on this safari adventure, you’ll be greeted by the sight of elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of animals, including crocodiles, water buffalo, and a myriad of bird species. The Elephant Transit Home, a sanctuary for orphaned elephants, offers a heartwarming glimpse into the conservation efforts in the region.

“Fabulous trip not to be missed!!! - We were picked up by car from our hotel by Dinesh our driver for the day. The drive was interesting as we passed through many local towns and villages. Dinesh was knowledgeable and pointed out things of interest on the way and answered our questions about his country. We then had the most fantastic few hours at Udawalawe National Park with our ranger guide where we saw many animals and birds in beautiful surroundings especially around the lake where we saw herd of elephants, crocodiles, eagles with monkeys on the hillside and a tree full of hanging bats which was unexpected! Our guide then took us on a side road where we got to be really close to a female herd of elephants with a baby who was lying at his Mum’s feet fast asleep - it was a beautiful sight. After the safari park we were taken for a lovely lunch at a local restaurant which was included and afterwards Dinesh took us to the baby elephant feeding station which was adorable. We would highly recommend this trip and our travel guides who were both friendly, knowledgeable and clearly loved showing us a little bit of their country.” - Reviewed on 2024-10-19

A Weekend of Cultural and Scenic Exploration

Kalutara’s weekend of cultural and scenic exploration offers a perfect balance of history and nature. As you traverse the region, you’ll find yourself captivated by the stories of ancient kings and the beauty of Sri Lanka’s landscapes. The weather, with its mix of clear skies and overcast conditions, provides an ideal backdrop for both cultural and natural exploration.

Whether you’re climbing the steps of the Sigiriya Fortress or observing elephants in their natural habitat, each experience is a testament to the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s heritage. This weekend journey through Kalutara is not just a trip; it’s an opportunity to connect with the soul of a nation that cherishes its past while embracing the wonders of the present.