This morning we visited another World Heritage Site, the Sigiriya Fortress dating from the 5th century AD. It was built by King Kashyapa and was only occupied by him for eighteen years. This huge rock fortress has water gardens, frescoes, ancient graffiti and amazing views.
We arrived early because of the heat and humidity and were immediately faced with the enormity of the task of climbing to the top. This was challenging but very rewarding for those who reached the top.
This site was discovered and excavations begun in the 1890s during the period of British rule. We were not permitted to take photos of the frescoes
The beginning of the climb.
The victory photo - those that reached the top.
Coming back down.
The afternoon programme was a little easier on the tired bodies. We visited Habarana village where we rode in bullock drawn carts to the lake. We then paddled around the lake to a family home where we learnt a little about the old ways of doing things - woven palm fronds for roofing, preparing rice and making flour and we tasted several Sri Lankan sweets.
Back in the boats our paddler made necklaces from lotus flowers for the ladies and hats from lotus leaves for the men as he paddled. We then had a ride in a tuk tuk, the popular means of transport here. Lunch today was served on lotus leaves and we were to try eating our food with our fingers in the Sri Lankan style. We did manage to eat our food but I wasn't impressed with the fishy smelling fingers afterwards.
All round, a very interesting day which provided us with lots of exercise, thus allowing us to eat more of the superb desserts being served every evening.
No comments:
Post a Comment