ANCIENT DOMAIN REVISITED
Kalindhi Fernando explores the historic city of Dambulla in a 48 hour miniature travelogue that features where to stay, what to discover and must visit attractions
Heritage, luxury, immersive experiences and natural beauty have converged with the historical location of a sacred rock temple that’s over 2,000 years old. And that’s exactly what Dambulla offers. Be it a two day adventure or a two week long journey, the discoveries are endless.
STAY AND DINE
Jetwing Lake This is a secluded 94 luxury room property nestled within a lush, verdant forest. It’s where Sri Lankan heritage meets contemporary modernism with floor to ceiling pano—ramic windows and earthy tones that blend seamlessly with its ancient surroundings. Unique experiences include the iconic elephant gatherings at Min-neriya and Kaudulla National Parks, adventurous loris night trails, and visits to the historical Pidurangala Rock, Sigirya rock fortress and Wilpattu National Park.
Amaya Lake The hotel is located on the peaceful shores of the Kandalama Re-servoir and offers sweeping panoramic views. Designed with loved ones and endless fun in mind, the property offers spacious suites to accommodate large groups, as well as family activities such as treasure hunts for kids, visits to the local crafts market, thrilling elephant safaris, sundowners by the lake, jungle treks, tranquil boat rides and more.
“Heritage, luxury, immersive experiences and natural beauty have converged with the historical location of a sacred rock temple that’s over 2,000 years old
EXPLORE
Dambulla Caves Situated atop a granite outcrop, these caves contain one of Sri Lanka’s best preserved collections of ancient Buddhist art and frescoes.
Kaludiya Pokuna Forest Monastery This archaeological site, which dates back to the 2nd century BC, consists of the remains used for ritu-als, residential cells, bathhouses and lavatories. It’s considered one of the earliest examples of an exceptional hydraulic civilisation.
Popham’s Arboretum Sri Lanka’s only dry zone tree sanctuary is home to around 100 species of timber and medicinal plants, as well as bats, birds and butterflies. The reserve offers day and night safaris, camping and lodging faci-lities, along with nature awareness and research programmes.
Jathika Namal Uyana The country’s most expansive natural ironwood forest is said to contain one of the largest known deposits of plant fossils on the island and is home to one of the oldest rose quartz formations in Asia.
VISIT
The Loom by Certitude This is Sri Lanka’s first sustainable fashion studio, boutique and cafe. It also provides accommodation. Designed exclusively as a transformative sustainable lifestyle space, The Loom brings together diverse elements such as upcycling, local craftsmanship, creative partnerships and mindful living – all under one roof.
HOT-AIR BALLOON
Travel with Lanka Ballooning above the verdant treetops of the Cultural Triangle at heights ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet. This one hour airborne journey at sunrise offers aerial views that include Sigiriya’s ‘lion rock’ and thriving wildlife.
RITIGALA RITES
This mystical and ancient Buddhist forest monastery was once occupied by ascetic monks who chose isolation and extreme austerity over conventional monastic life.
SMART FARMING
The Agri Experience Center by DIMO is more than an exhibition space; it serves as a living laboratory where visitors can witness the practical application of modern agri technologies, engage with smart farming solutions and explore the full spectrum of agri mechanisation.
