Sri Lanka https://2hungrywanderers.com/ en The best elephant safari in Sri Lanka - full guide to Kaudulla and Minneriya https://2hungrywanderers.com/best-elephant-safari-sri-lanka-full-guide-kaudulla-and-minneriya <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <h1 class="page-header">The best elephant safari in Sri Lanka - full guide to Kaudulla and Minneriya</h1> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--post.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/1" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">2hw</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--post.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span>Sat, 10/03/2020 - 00:14</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--extra-field-block--node--post--links.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node.html.twig * block--extra-field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-extra-field-blocknodepostlinks clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1587.jpg?itok=KTpFiij- 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1587.jpg?itok=7z9zN4zV 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1587.jpg?itok=94dcvO5X 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1587.jpg?itok=KTpFiij-" alt="The best place for an elephant safari in Sri Lanka - all the info you need about Kaudulla and Minneriya" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--body.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostbody clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--post--default.html.twig * field--node--body--post.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Located close to some of Sri Lanka's main historic sites are two excellent opportunities to observe the local wildlife and have an amazing experience in nature. Those two national parks are famous for being the best spots to see large herds of elephants, plus countless other animals and birds. Located right next to each other, they do have a lot in common, but there are some differences too. Keep reading on how to choose which one to visit on your safari and why you should definitely do so.</p> <div class="embed-media embed-media--video-youtube"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Wv10ahc3KZs?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;" title="Elephant safari in Kaudulla National Park in Sri Lanka"></iframe></div></div><h2>How to visit a national park and how to choose a tour?</h2> <p>The parks do not offer any services directly, so you have to hire a private ride. There are plenty of operators in the area, but it is advisable to do your own research as prices vary greatly. Some have better vehicles, but a higher price doesn't guarantee this, if you want to be sure what you get - ask to see a photo of the jeep (that's what the modified off-road vehicles used for safaris are called). Most companies offer safaris in both parks, and some even can take you to both on the same day.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="babies stay close to their moms" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c241b82c-ebf6-4c8c-9eb2-53427eccd0fa" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1568.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1568.jpg?itok=jO0AYltN 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1568.jpg?itok=kGUkbaSz 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1568.jpg?itok=pPJCXvIe 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Babies stay close to their moms</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Our advice is to choose a safari tour in advance. A simple Google search will give you lots of options - get in touch, check their availability and prices. You can always ask your accommodation to help you organize it, our host, however, was most unhelpful in this matter. Some people recommend to go to the park and find a ride there, I cannot recommend this option unless you are prepared to get whatever vehicle is available at whatever price they ask. Negotiating may be easier if you know what the prices are in advance. It is also possible to spend the time to go there just to find that no jeeps are available.</p> <p>Usually, the tours include transport from your accommodation. If you have your own transport and want to save some money, the cheapest option should be to drive yourself there and meet at the park entrance.</p> <h2>What is the best starting point?</h2> <p>Anywhere in the Cultural Triangle will do! It doesn't make a big difference if you are staying in Polonnaruwa or Sigirya, even Dambulla is not too far and the centrally located Habarana is closest to both parks. All these cities are good places to add an extra day for a wildlife safari and plan a visit to one of the national parks. Here are the distances and time needed according to GoogleMaps, which is usually very accurate.</p> <table><caption>Distances between the national parks and nearby cities</caption> <thead><tr><th>From/To</th> <th>Kaudulla</th> <th>Minneriya</th> </tr></thead><tbody><tr><th>Sigiriya</th> <td>48 min / 39 km</td> <td>26 min / 20 km</td> </tr><tr><th>Polonnaruwa</th> <td>46 min / 34 km</td> <td>47 min / 37 km</td> </tr><tr><th>Habarana</th> <td>27 min / 24 km</td> <td>11 min / 9 km</td> </tr><tr><th>Dambulla</th> <td>52 min / 45 km</td> <td>37 min / 31 km</td> </tr></tbody></table><h2>When to do the safari?</h2> <p>The majority of tours are called "half-day" and start either in the morning or in the afternoon. All people we've talked about this have recommended the afternoon as there is a higher chance to see more animals and especially elephants. They tend to wander for a bath and to drink water before sunset, after spending the day hidden in the shade. Of course this means more people and more jeeps will be hoping for the same, so afternoons also get more crowded.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Just a part of the largest herd we saw" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eaa43f69-457c-4e8e-a4e5-e6b36dc7b135" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1602.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1602.jpg?itok=2FZsL7NF 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1602.jpg?itok=L_57UvEb 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1602.jpg?itok=YseSZsbu 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Just a part of the largest herd we saw</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>To minimize the crowds of people it is advisable to avoid the weekend and especially public holidays. That is the time when locals swarm from the big cities and the parks can get really busy.</p> <p>Don't forget that this is not a zoo, so your luck plays a big role in your experience - one day visitors may see hundreds of elephants, the next - just a few.</p> <h2>How much does it cost?</h2> <p>The total cost is comprised of two elements - the national park fee and the safari tour. Both Kaudulla and Minneriya national parks have the same pricing as the majority of wildlife parks in Sri Lanka. For the entrance, you will have to pay the sum of:</p> <ul><li>$10 per person for foreigners</li> <li>$8 service charge (per group)</li> <li>40 LKR entrance fee for your driver, locals pay about 50 times less than us</li> <li>250 LKR vehicle fee</li> <li>8% tax on the sum of the above</li> </ul><p>When we visited Kaudulla, for us two the total entrance fee was about 6000 LKR.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01452a93-e5cb-4cff-a20f-30673d8b2f39" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1680.jpg?itok=O2BdGXxr 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1680.jpg?itok=c7inL2XB 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1680.jpg?itok=jGFh7dOQ 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1680.jpg" alt="elephant safari" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>For the tour, it makes a big difference if you do it in a shared jeep or you prefer to hire a private just for you. Most offers we got for a private half-day tour were between 4000 and 6000 rupees, again this depends on many factors like the season, type of the jeep and your haggling skills. A seat in a shared jeep goes around 1000-2000 rupees, but those are not always available. </p> <h2>So, should I visit Kaudulla or Minneriya? Where are the elephants?</h2> <p>It's time for the most important question - which park is better? Which gives you better chances to see more elephants? Honestly, there is no easy answer. All kinds of stories have been shared online regarding what people experienced or were told about the parks. A common opinion is that Minneriya used to be more popular, so it got more crowded. There are stories about drivers getting too close to elephants and even vehicles being attacked. Blessed by ignorance people claim that one park has way more elephants than the other. Some even say that many elephants have left both parks in recent years. </p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cfb13bd7-3629-4b39-9f6b-be8e81df8fc9" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1651.jpg?itok=HHjzWZjm 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1651.jpg?itok=ozd7UzGb 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1651.jpg?itok=TjaP9sms 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1651.jpg" alt="elephants at the water" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The truth is that the situation changes. The elephants are free to move between the areas and they do so as they please - because the grass is greener, or there are fewer intruders or just because they want to. Instead of reading advice from years ago, just ask the tour operators. People who drive through the parks on a daily basis have the complete, fresh picture. We chose Kaudulla because a helpful driver told us that there are much more elephants there than in the other park and he was right. They have no reason to lie, as the prices are basically the same.</p> <h2>Elephant gathering</h2> <p>The Gathering is an event when an unusually high number of elephants come together in one place. Usually animals migrate according to their mating seasons, but the reason for the largest elephant "convention" is different. In Sri Lanka, July and August are the peak of the dry season. The weather is hot, rain is rare and rivers and lakes dry up, forcing the large animals to move closer to water sources.</p> <p>The huge mammals need a lot water to survive. The average adult elephant will drink about 100 litres per day, but it is not uncommon to double this amount, especially when it is hot and sunny. </p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Most of the time males roam alone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2291a926-2199-4552-8e1c-a8766fa2fbef" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1667.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1667.jpg?itok=eP0wR0zl 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1667.jpg?itok=x7F1Ti6H 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1667.jpg?itok=j2hYakAF 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Most of the time males roam alone</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The two national parks of Minneriya and Kaudulla are the perfect "summer getaway" for elephants, with dense jungles and large water reservoirs. Most elephants from central Sri Lanka spend several months there resulting in the largest in the world gathering of Asian elephants. The numbers vary, but it is common to reach 300-400 at times.</p> <p>Your best chance to observe The Gathering is during or right after the peak of the dry season. Reports from previous years stretch the dates from June to September, but it all depends on the weather.</p> <h2>Our visit to Kaudulla National Park</h2> <p>We got picked up from our hotel in Sigirya at 13:30 and were at the parks entrance before 14:30. Ten minutes later we were lucky to see the first small herd of elephants, four females and a couple of babies happily grazing under some trees in the distance. Absolutely lovely picture, but we were not impressed yet, just hoped our luck didn't run out so soon.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Keep your camera ready at all times" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aab8e7f2-4afe-48fe-b5fb-756bc33dea99" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1764.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1764.jpg?itok=lGSTdfw0 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1764.jpg?itok=sSUryjyJ 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1764.jpg?itok=nWFH8TWu 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Keep your camera ready at all times</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Soon after this, on a curve of the road, our driver slowed down, stopped and pulled back a little bit. A group of four grey giants was just coming out of the jungle just a stone throw away from us. A small group with one baby hiding between its moms legs, but this was our closest encounter so far, a truly exciting moment! We watched them for a while and continued our ride, our guide pointing some large storks in the distance.</p> <p>If we knew what was waiting for us we wouldn't have wasted time with the birds. The first big herd - about 30 elephants were literally on the road ahead of us. Our driver got us as close to the animals as possible without disturbing them. After watching the group and taking lots of photos we eventually had to turn around and go along a side road as they were blocking the main one.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Not many have beautiful tusks like this one" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46136012-55b7-494c-9c5a-ffe454109d70" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1703.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1703.jpg?itok=xMPZxxTU 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1703.jpg?itok=n9Zm0cH- 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1703.jpg?itok=BoKPG-0j 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Not many have beautiful tusks like this one</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>In the next 2-3 hours we encountered several single males roaming the park, other groups of elephants, watched two separate herds merge at a lake where some bathed and others just drank water, even saw some who had tusks. Along the way there were other animals like deer, crocodiles, several species of monkeys and plenty of birds, making the tour more complete. Observing just a single wild elephant in nature is something that can make your day, we were lucky to see about 150 of them in just one afternoon. An absolutely amazing experience!</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-date-visited.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-date-visited clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-date-visited--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited--post.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--datetime.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-date-visited field--type-datetime field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Date Visited</div> <div class="field--items"> <div class="field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2020-08-10T12:00:00Z">August 2020</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="row bs-2col"> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-destinations.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-destinations clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Destinations</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-destinations--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations--post.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-destinations.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> <ul class="field__items_list"> <li><a href="/destination/asia" hreflang="en">Asia</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sri-lanka" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/dambulla" hreflang="en">Dambulla</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/polonnaruwa" hreflang="en">Polonnaruwa</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sigiriya" hreflang="en">Sigiriya</a></li> </ul> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--right"> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--comment.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostcomment clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Comments</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--comment--post--default.html.twig * field--node--comment--post.html.twig * field--node--comment.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--block-content--33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0.html.twig * block--block-content.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-block-content block-block-content33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0 clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--block-content--body--basic.html.twig * field--block-content--body.html.twig * field--block-content--basic.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><div class="loginBtnSocialDiv"> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--facebook"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/facebook">Login with Facebook</a> </button> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--google"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/google">Login with Google</a> </button> </div></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> Fri, 02 Oct 2020 21:14:55 +0000 2hw 115 at https://2hungrywanderers.com Pidurangala rock temple - all you need to know about the hike, the price and the views https://2hungrywanderers.com/pidurangala-rock-temple-all-you-need-know-about-hike-price-and-views <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <h1 class="page-header">Pidurangala rock temple - all you need to know about the hike, the price and the views</h1> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--post.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/1" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">2hw</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--post.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span>Sat, 10/03/2020 - 00:08</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--extra-field-block--node--post--links.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node.html.twig * block--extra-field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-extra-field-blocknodepostlinks clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_1772.jpg?itok=bbzeXt5J 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_1772.jpg?itok=mzaEuVP8 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_1772.jpg?itok=GGDnsj8G 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_1772.jpg?itok=bbzeXt5J" alt="Pidurangala rock temple - all you need to know about the hike, the price and the views" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--body.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostbody clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--post--default.html.twig * field--node--body--post.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>When visiting the popular Sigiriya Fortress, you will almost definitely hear about the nearby Pidurangala rock, and even if you don't, you can't miss the scenic hill, which is located just 1 km as the crow flies from the main attraction. When reading about this place one can easily get confused by the conflicting opinions about it. Is it very difficult to climb? Is it overpriced? Is it unfairly ignored by many? Here we will tell you the truth about Pidurangala, so you can decide if and how to enjoy this site.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'entity_embed_container' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <div data-embed-button="node" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.embeddable_teaser" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="ce954462-7bf3-49f1-bf6a-99eca4576749" class="align-center embedded-entity" data-langcode="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * node--109--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--109.html.twig * node--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--post.html.twig x node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> <article data-history-node-id="109" role="article" about="/top-and-only-3-things-do-sigiriya-and-where-eat" class="post is-promoted embeddable-teaser clearfix"><div class="content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix bs-2col"> <span class="col-sm-3 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --><div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <a href="/top-and-only-3-things-do-sigiriya-and-where-eat" hreflang="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2020-10/mixm.jpg?itok=4kx3g9A_" width="100" height="67" alt="The top (and only) 3 things to do in Sigiriya and where to eat" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --></a> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> <span class="col-sm-9 bs-region bs-region--right"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--title.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodeposttitle clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --><div class="embeddable-teaser-title"><a href="/top-and-only-3-things-do-sigiriya-and-where-eat" hreflang="en">The top (and only) 3 things to do in Sigiriya and where to eat</a></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> </div> </article><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <h2>Going in... is it worth it?</h2> <p>Finding the place is easy enough by following the directions on <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/7BWGvcrJa81Lxt2t5">GoogleMaps</a>. Prepared for a hike with good shoes, hats and water we got to the entrance of the temple, where visitors are required to take off shoes and hats to enter (carry them through the monastery section and put them back on at the start of the trail). There we were met by a grumpy staff member who collected the entrance fee of 500 LKR per person. Of course, this applies to foreigners only, but we also got a leaflet saying "Thank you for your donation" and vaguely hinting our money will be used for good causes. Many tourists claim the fee is too high and I tend to agree. It also feels like Pidurangala is piggybacking on the fame of the nearby top attraction and have embraced the opportunity to fleece even more the tourists who paid the extremely high fee for the fortress. Keep reading, so you can decide for yourself if the 500 rupees is money well spent or you prefer not to visit the site. I am personally on the fence.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Just a portion of the scenic views from the top" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bf051b7-da49-4544-a49d-a3ea1af6017e" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1781.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1781.jpg?itok=DIwUjWob 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1781.jpg?itok=ii6CoD4W 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1781.jpg?itok=s1icArL2 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Just a portion of the scenic views from the top, Ritigala Mountain in the distance</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><h2>Should I just climb Pidurangala rock?</h2> <p>Some people say that you can just visit Pidurangala and skip Sigiriya Fortress, which makes sense financially, but I can't agree with the whole idea. Yes, the side attraction is a lot (more than 11 times) cheaper than the main one, but it can only be considered a close match when talking about nature views. Read our post to find out about all the unique things you can see in the admittedly overpriced, but rich in history Sigiriya Fortress.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'entity_embed_container' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <div data-embed-button="node" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.embeddable_teaser" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="79c151c2-5191-47c1-9bcb-0b6a6e16ea3d" class="align-center embedded-entity" data-langcode="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * node--110--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--110.html.twig * node--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--post.html.twig x node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> <article data-history-node-id="110" role="article" about="/lions-rock-fortress-sigiriya-palace-temple-and-more" class="post is-promoted embeddable-teaser clearfix"><div class="content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix bs-2col"> <span class="col-sm-3 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --><div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <a href="/lions-rock-fortress-sigiriya-palace-temple-and-more" hreflang="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2020-10/XXX_1083_1.JPG?itok=1o0rAWuf" width="100" height="67" alt="Lion's Rock Fortress in Sigiriya - a palace, a temple and more" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --></a> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> <span class="col-sm-9 bs-region bs-region--right"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--title.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodeposttitle clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --><div class="embeddable-teaser-title"><a href="/lions-rock-fortress-sigiriya-palace-temple-and-more" hreflang="en">Lion's Rock Fortress in Sigiriya - a palace, a temple and more</a></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> </div> </article><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <h2>The temple</h2> <p>There have been Buddhist monks living in the area for more than 2000 years, but the same king who built Sigiriya Fortress, Kasyapa (477-495 A.D.), built the Pidurangala Monastery and the place became a religious centre. Today it is a small and not very impressive temple with the usual bodhi tree, a dagoba and some ruins.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6a16e740-b273-4c55-afc6-1417ea30e234" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1834.jpg?itok=fzA3iwlL 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1834.jpg?itok=Q_pv2JjB 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1834.jpg?itok=5ITMbSYr 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1834.jpg" alt="image house" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The main attraction there is a small image house covering a colourful statue of a reclining Buddha. The interior of the building is also decorated and some paintings look like they are heavily inspired by the Sigiriya Ladies frescoes. The artist tried to outdo the originals but managed to do so only in chest size, failing in the quality department.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Left: Pidurangala temple decorations | Right: Originals at Sigiriya Fortress" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1e58a03-9656-45ff-938f-8371e688a42c" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/ladies.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/ladies.jpg?itok=v2NrFM_J 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/ladies.jpg?itok=Kfpc5BSI 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/ladies.jpg?itok=GVrnBS7s 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Left: Pidurangala temple decorations | Right: Sigiriya Fortress</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><h2>The first stage of the climb</h2> <p>Right after the image house, following the path going up the hill people are allowed to put their shoes and hats on, and so we did this, ready for the climb. Some people claim it took them several hours to climb the rock, the leaflet itself gives an estimate of 2 hours. With that number in mind, we started the path, which is uphill (surprise?) but not unpleasant - wide and clean, with lots of steps. We consider our fitness level to be about average, so we were mentally prepared for several hours of walking.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="caves" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="667de5f4-61c8-4f9f-a525-4f75a6486716" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1810.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1810.jpg?itok=NyalX_KK 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1810.jpg?itok=EuQxkL-0 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1810.jpg?itok=Dl4ZE_kF 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Empty caves with paint traces on the ceiling</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Walking past some drip ledge caves, in less than 15 minutes we got to a larger cave, which marks the end of the "easy" path. Inside the cave is a 12.5 meters long statue of a reclining Buddha made out of bricks. The statue has been destroyed in the past, but restored in recent years and now is a curious sight because some sections of it are bare brick, others are covered in white plaster, one can say that the brick Buddha is wearing only pants and a left sleeve.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="51979366-9887-482e-b3b6-830f4e0ea05c" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1809.jpg?itok=H7il1pmJ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1809.jpg?itok=Nt4pCmzl 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1809.jpg?itok=LV2qwbDj 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1809.jpg" alt="Ancient brick Buddha statue" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Looking at the time, we were a bit confused because we got to this spot so early, but at this point assumed that the more difficult part of the path to the top is longer.</p> <h2>The second stage of the climb</h2> <p>Took a sip of water and we continued uphill, following the now narrow and squeezed between boulders path. Almost immediately we met two local men coming downwards, both were barefooted and carrying their bike helmets in their hands. One had a bag in his other hand. Even more confused, we asked them how far is the top and they said that it was just over there, pointing to the rock behind them. Well, if somebody without shoes and stuff in both hands got to the top, it was fair to assume it wasn't a two-hour climb.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="The path is clearly visible" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="91192739-fdda-490d-a37f-2a5e88e08e8c" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1797.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1797.JPG.jpg?itok=zlTmrj00 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1797.JPG.jpg?itok=2nJbvYYm 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1797.JPG.jpg?itok=PDgFybjK 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The path is clearly visible...?</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>We continued going up and yes, we had to climb some big rocks and make several small jumps from one boulder to another, but we got to the top in about 5 minutes from the brick Buddha, 20 from the start of the path. That's right, the total amount of time an average person needs to go up and down the Pidurangala rock is about 40 minutes, not including time for breaks and photos.</p> <p>Here is the place to say that if you have any limitations regarding mobility, for example, if you can't climb a smooth rock that is about 1 m high or jump the same distance, you probably will not be able to reach the top. This, unfortunately, means you will miss out on the best part - the views from above because almost all the path is through a forest and doesn't offer good vantage points before reaching the end.</p> <h2>At the top</h2> <p>Of course, the first thing one notices up there is the awesome view towards Sigiriya Fortress. The legendary rock stands out, powerfully demanding attention at a perfect distance - both far enough to be admired completely and close enough to see details. Unfortunately, the lion's paws of the main staircase are not visible, hidden by the trees around them, but the higher sections of the staircase can easily be spotted, as well as some of the ruins at the top. We just looked at it and tried to imagine what it was like centuries ago when the gigantic lion was perfectly visible from there and the palace/monastery of Sigiriya stood like a crown on the stone outcrop.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Sigiriya Fortress" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d4060788-174b-4490-a3dd-12ef9f615ec9" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1793.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1793.jpg?itok=e0gkWErP 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1793.jpg?itok=J2xkq2Bo 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1793.jpg?itok=LpRa8CJx 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Sigiriya Fortress</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>When you are ready to take your eyes off the fortress you will discover that climbing Pidurangala was worth it, even just for the sweeping views of the jungles and lakes around. We were lucky to be there on a clear day with good visibility, all the way to Ritigala mountain, which is 20 km away (straight line).</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Can you find the stupa?" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23e63afa-52d7-4276-8c3f-67af34999f57" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1784.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1784.jpg?itok=yNE7PIp4 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1784.jpg?itok=vPU64zz5 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1784.jpg?itok=fdHXBOyk 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Can you find the stupa?</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Exploring the top is also a nice way to relax, the sloped rock was not suitable for large scale construction like its famous neighbour, but the ancient people have left their mark there as well. Two small stupas are now just piles of bricks being taken over by cacti. Looking at the ground we discovered some very symmetrical channels in the rock, probably used to hold wooden foundations of buildings.</p> <h2>When to visit Pidurangala?</h2> <p>The good news is that whatever time you pick to climb the rock, you will have something nice to look forward to.</p> <ul><li>Sunrise - considered a must-do by many. Watching the sun come up from such a high vantage point is guaranteed to reward you with great memories. Sigiriya Fortress will be bathed in the first rays, a sight surely worth getting up early.</li> <li>Daytime - most people choose this option because it is easier to plan, so might get crowded. More sunlight means more heat as well as better visibility in all directions.</li> <li>Sunset - watching the sun set behind the fortress is surely a magical moment. If you are lucky you might get a multicoloured Sri Lankan sunset on top of that - countless hues of yellow, orange and purple sometimes create unbelievable scenes.</li> </ul></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-date-visited.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-date-visited clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-date-visited--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited--post.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--datetime.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-date-visited field--type-datetime field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Date Visited</div> <div class="field--items"> <div class="field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2020-08-11T12:00:00Z">August 2020</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="row bs-2col"> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-destinations.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-destinations clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Destinations</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-destinations--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations--post.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-destinations.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> <ul class="field__items_list"> <li><a href="/destination/asia" hreflang="en">Asia</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sri-lanka" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sigiriya" hreflang="en">Sigiriya</a></li> </ul> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--right"> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--comment.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostcomment clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Comments</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--comment--post--default.html.twig * field--node--comment--post.html.twig * 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field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><div class="loginBtnSocialDiv"> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--facebook"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/facebook">Login with Facebook</a> </button> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--google"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/google">Login with Google</a> </button> </div></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> Fri, 02 Oct 2020 21:08:51 +0000 2hw 111 at https://2hungrywanderers.com https://2hungrywanderers.com/pidurangala-rock-temple-all-you-need-know-about-hike-price-and-views#comments Lion's Rock Fortress in Sigiriya - a palace, a temple and more https://2hungrywanderers.com/lions-rock-fortress-sigiriya-palace-temple-and-more <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <h1 class="page-header">Lion&#039;s Rock Fortress in Sigiriya - a palace, a temple and more</h1> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--post.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/1" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">2hw</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--post.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span>Sat, 10/03/2020 - 00:08</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--extra-field-block--node--post--links.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node.html.twig * block--extra-field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-extra-field-blocknodepostlinks clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1083_1.JPG.jpg?itok=Tvijg7Xq 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1083_1.JPG.jpg?itok=iSCzg3AZ 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1083_1.JPG.jpg?itok=cxBpzk0L 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1083_1.JPG.jpg?itok=Tvijg7Xq" alt="Lion&#039;s Rock Fortress in Sigiriya - a palace, a temple and more" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--body.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostbody clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--post--default.html.twig * field--node--body--post.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Also called the Lion's Rock, The Eight Wonder of the world and included nearly in every "Top X places to visit in Sri Lanka" list, Sigiriya Rock Fortress is undoubtedly one of the country's most famous attractions. This UNESCO world heritage site has a lot to offer and here I will walk you up and down the rock and will show you all of the popular and some of the less known sights.</p> <p>Lion's Rock Fortress is the main attraction in the small town of Sigiriya, for more things you can do there check our article</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'entity_embed_container' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <div data-embed-button="node" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.embeddable_teaser" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="ce954462-7bf3-49f1-bf6a-99eca4576749" class="align-center embedded-entity" data-langcode="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * node--109--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--109.html.twig * node--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--post.html.twig x node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> <article data-history-node-id="109" role="article" about="/top-and-only-3-things-do-sigiriya-and-where-eat" class="post is-promoted embeddable-teaser clearfix"><div class="content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix bs-2col"> <span class="col-sm-3 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --><div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <a href="/top-and-only-3-things-do-sigiriya-and-where-eat" hreflang="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2020-10/mixm.jpg?itok=4kx3g9A_" width="100" height="67" alt="The top (and only) 3 things to do in Sigiriya and where to eat" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --></a> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> <span class="col-sm-9 bs-region bs-region--right"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--title.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodeposttitle clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --><div class="embeddable-teaser-title"><a href="/top-and-only-3-things-do-sigiriya-and-where-eat" hreflang="en">The top (and only) 3 things to do in Sigiriya and where to eat</a></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> </div> </article><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <p>Many mysteries surround the history of the famous area. There is evidence that people have lived there since prehistoric times, but many theories exist about the remains of the buildings we see today. The most popular and established theory is that Kasyapa was not the rightful heir, but he took over the throne from his father King Dhatusena by force in 477 AD. As the supporters of the rightful king expected strong support from India, King Kasyapa (477 - 495 AD) moved the capital from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya, a place he turned into an impenetrable fortress-palace and a prosperous city developed around it. The majority of buildings that are visible today have been built during this period. </p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5ee4d723-55ad-4dee-81af-ae9a119fe525" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1235_1.JPG.jpg?itok=NdOEDQQL 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1235_1.JPG.jpg?itok=CkWZN3xx 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1235_1.JPG.jpg?itok=_-S2__iZ 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1235_1.JPG" alt="stupa" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>People rarely talk about Sigiriya without mentioning the high price of the attraction, I have left this discussion as the last point in my article, wanted to focus on the positives first.</p> <p>An early start is a good idea because the top of the rock has almost no shade at all. I have arranged the points of interest in the same order as one would reach them by going up the main path, but in fact, we rushed to the top first and I recommend you do the same if you prefer to spend less time climbing in the midday heat. After this, the lower levels and gardens offer some shade and exploring them is a pleasure.</p> <h2>Water gardens</h2> <p>Walking from the main entrance of the complex towards the rock the first area visitors enter is the water gardens. The main path is also an axis of symmetry for the pools, just the ones on the right side are restored, but most of the left side is untouched in recent centuries. These gardens are a true technological achievement of the ancient people as the fountains and lakes are fed and drained by a complex system of canals, dams and pumps, both underground and on the surface. Now, as many centuries ago, they are a wonderful opportunity for a relaxing walk.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fa986a79-5390-4a3f-afbd-5576a206b640" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1275.JPG.jpg?itok=h7ZpxIPs 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1275.JPG.jpg?itok=cADkxaXl 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1275.JPG.jpg?itok=wEwibkJv 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1275.JPG" alt="Water gardens" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>There are some man-made islands in the gardens, where a secondary palace has been built. The palace is still awaiting to be fully excavated and currently, the islands are off-limits for tourists. We joked that maybe the king didn't like going up and down to the main palace, so he built the "summer" palace to avoid the long climb.</p> <h2>Boulder gardens</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cf66c30a-637f-4d8d-b655-7feb3304863a" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1090.JPG.jpg?itok=eYLC0xsP 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1090.JPG.jpg?itok=CI7sS9SB 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1090.JPG.jpg?itok=bP-AXA8m 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1090.JPG" alt="Sigiriya boulder gardens" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>One of the most mysterious areas in Sigiriya, the huge boulders here form many passages and caves that have been used for millennia. To what degree their current position can be attributed to the people who build the palace is unknown. Many of the boulders have holes and flat surfaces that were probably used to support the foundations of buildings. Some of the caves hold interesting remainders of the past - altars or stone beds, brick walls and traces of colourful paintings. At least an hour can be spent just exploring this area and wondering what it actually looked like when it was inhabited by the royal court, or later - by monks.</p> <h2>Terraced gardens</h2> <p>The lower section of the hill between the boulders and the Lion's paws has been transformed into flat gardens using brick walls, similar to rice terraces. This gardens must have had a more functional role as they lack the beauty and sophistication of the water gardens and the history of the boulders.</p> <p>While walking along the main path you will encounter an important intersection, unfortunately without any indication where each direction leads. Straight is the path towards the top of the hill, our advice is to do this first. If you choose the right path, it will take you to the mirror wall and frescoes gallery. There the path is narrow and marked as one-way, which was not enforced when we visited, but maybe during busier times, people will not be allowed to go back. This will mean a very long detour, if you go to the frescoes first and want to climb the rock afterwards.</p> <h2>Lion's paws and staircase</h2> <p>On the highest terrace is the monument most often used to represent Sigiriya - two paws of an enormous lion framing the foot of the staircase leading to the rock summit. Sadly, just the front paws remain of what must have been an amazing statue with the staircase going right into the lion's mouth.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c7dacee8-f826-4ea9-94f9-68f40f71e41d" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1102_1.JPG.jpg?itok=OaKPUHGD 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1102_1.JPG.jpg?itok=cYva7AlA 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1102_1.JPG.jpg?itok=jR5MGpXA 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1102_1.JPG" alt="Lions paws" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>What follows is the main climb, so the lion's paws are not just a photo opportunity you should not miss, but a chance to catch your breath before going up the numerous steps. Older reports mention a dangerous and difficult climb over the original steps carved in the rock, but now there is a metal staircase with rails on each side that feels safe and solid. </p> <h2>The summit</h2> <p>Reaching the highest point was a tiny bit of a letdown. The views are awesome in every direction, closest and easiest to spot of the nearby landmarks is the Pidurangala rock.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Pidurangala rock" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb08118b-9bdd-4c29-836b-7678a12b7dbd" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1117.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1117.jpg?itok=tTMG7MEA 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1117.jpg?itok=G2Xsjt6Y 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1117.jpg?itok=95CuhXxd 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Pidurangala rock</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>What is left from the buildings on top is just restored foundations, which fail to impress, with just a couple of exceptions. A large bathing pool is the centre of attention, looks like nobody leaves without taking some selfies with it. I got the impression, that locals consider it the only note-worthy place at the summit. The central pond is surrounded by brick staircases which indicate the scale of the buildings that once covered the tall rock.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de82e376-b98e-4dd3-af91-5998901d594b" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1133.JPG.jpg?itok=OPpCF7Gt 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1133.JPG.jpg?itok=6FkISdOf 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1133.JPG.jpg?itok=Di_ZK-EO 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1133.JPG" alt="The summit" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>A perfectly smooth throne is carved out of the rock remains in situ, a large rectangular surface with in-built back support which may even be called a "cushion". Strangely, it is not in a central position, but currently sits in what looks like to have been a hallway.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16f6745b-58a2-4ae9-a7b2-4190f55cf6ba" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1173.JPG.jpg?itok=kY5zOfei 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1173.JPG.jpg?itok=ZzCmwJ3Z 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1173.JPG.jpg?itok=kp2IDZZQ 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1173.JPG" alt="throne " typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Apart from those, the top doesn't offer much more to see, so the best approach is to head for the higher vantage points and feel free to skip walking around the whole place.</p> <p>Going down the steps is much easier and soon you will find yourself at the intersection we mentioned earlier in the terraced gardens. Head left and soon you will reach the Mirror Wall, walking past it will take you to a spiral staircase leading to a unique art gallery.</p> <h2>Mirror wall - Sigiriya Graffiti </h2> <p>A long time ago the tall brick wall was covered in white plaster and polished so perfectly that the king could see his reflection when walking past it, hence the name - Mirror Wall. It is still super smooth in some spots, but the no longer reflective surface is even more interesting now. A visitors book of sorts, the wall contains over 1800 writings from ancient tourists scribbled over a period of 800 years and the oldest have been dated as far back as the 8th century.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64bacea4-aca6-4f2e-9961-61701b19bfe3" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1186.jpg?itok=DPejsz44 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1186.jpg?itok=NCe7CNRG 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1186.jpg?itok=r__6FUHq 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1186.jpg" alt="Mirror wall - Sigiriya Graffiti " typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The texts give a unique insight into the history of Sri Lanka as many people included their names, professions and home towns. Hundreds of different authors have been identified so far, most of which had higher social position - government officials, teachers, priests, high ranking soldiers. It is not clear if travelling used to be a privilege for the rich or simply the lower classes visited the place as well, but did not "sign the guest book" due to being illiterate.</p> <p>The contents of the writings cover a wide range of emotions from simple "I was here" through expressions of astonishment from the site to truly inspired poetry. The wall holds many poems praising the beauty of the semi-naked ladies from the paintings. A great example of art inspiring art, between the scribbles, there are numerous verses proclaiming love, adoration and worship of the heavenly women.</p> <h2>Frescoes - the Sigiriya Ladies</h2> <p>Ancient texts mention vast areas of the rock covered in paintings depicting over 500 women, which surely has been one of the largest works of art on the island. Today only eighteen of the beautiful damsels remain in a small niche on the western side of the rock, most likely protected from the elements by their location.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c279d3a-3319-47ec-8691-763018bc994d" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1190.JPG.jpg?itok=nX8mHAzs 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1190.JPG.jpg?itok=lmpGHehm 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1190.JPG.jpg?itok=KiZgc9Hf 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1190.JPG" alt="Frescoes - the Sigiriya Ladies" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The Sigiriya Ladies are a true masterpiece, a celebration of female beauty, there are intricate details in their jewellery and faces. Many carry flowers as part of a religious ritual, most are smiling. The artist put a really strong emphasis on their femininity by portraying them topless and with cup sizes guaranteed to attract attention.</p> <p>Many questions about those paintings remain unsolved - for example, they are dated back to the Anuradhapura period, but the style of applying paint is different from the rest of the artwork from that age.</p> <p>The biggest mystery is the identity of the ladies. Some believe they are portraits of King Kasyapa’s wives and concubines, this theory is supported by the fact that every woman has distinct facial features. Others are convinced that the beautiful ladies are in fact priestesses or goddesses because they are represented sitting on clouds, a common attribute of divine creatures.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="100 rupees note from 1954, featuring the Sigiriya ladies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="27d91b49-f55c-4cc4-b0af-07d289d110db" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1290.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1290.jpg?itok=exFmT0uw 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1290.jpg?itok=FcGK7A6a 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1290.jpg?itok=sqarcYsX 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">100 rupees note from 1954, featuring the Sigiriya ladies</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>During the excavation of the historic site, archeologists have found clay figurines very closely resembling the painted ladies. Considering their mass production, it is assumed they were sold as souvenirs to the visitors in ancient times.</p> <h2>Is Sigiriya Rock Fortress worth its high price?</h2> <p>The entrance ticket for foreigners is $30. It is the most expensive tourist attraction in the country and many people do not think this price is appropriate. It is even higher than the 5-day pass for Bagan in Myanmar, which is $25 and exploring a whole valley with thousands of temples over five days gives you incomparably more in every aspect than climbing the fortress.</p> <p>After visiting Sigiriya I agree, it is a nice place and worth visiting, but the price is way too high. I think for that price tourists deserve at least some signs pointing to the different spots and information boards that are not faded and almost impossible to read. Accepting credit cards would be nice too, but I guess the owners of the high-fee ATM on site are quite happy with the "cash only" policy.</p> <p>Also, it might be just me but they could've used some of our money to do something about the huge wasp hives instead of just putting up warning signs.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'entity_embed_container' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <div data-embed-button="node" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.embeddable_teaser" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="35f234b0-abdc-4d85-84a6-ee4884717e66" class="align-center embedded-entity" data-langcode="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * node--111--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--111.html.twig * node--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--post.html.twig x node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> <article data-history-node-id="111" role="article" about="/pidurangala-rock-temple-all-you-need-know-about-hike-price-and-views" class="post is-promoted embeddable-teaser clearfix"><div class="content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix bs-2col"> <span class="col-sm-3 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --><div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <a href="/pidurangala-rock-temple-all-you-need-know-about-hike-price-and-views" hreflang="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2020-08/XXX_1772.jpg?itok=cOZJKQA4" width="100" height="67" alt="Pidurangala rock temple - all you need to know about the hike, the price and the views" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --></a> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> <span class="col-sm-9 bs-region bs-region--right"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--title.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodeposttitle clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --><div class="embeddable-teaser-title"><a href="/pidurangala-rock-temple-all-you-need-know-about-hike-price-and-views" hreflang="en">Pidurangala rock temple - all you need to know about the hike, the price and the views</a></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> </div> </article><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <p>To make things even worse think about the difference in the ticket cost depending on your nationality. For foreigners, the $30 are converted to rupees based on the daily rate, on our visit we had to pay 5640 LKR per person. Locals pay 50 rupees. Yes, we pay 113 times the local fee. I generally understand and approve double pricing, foreigners being charged two, three, five times more is something I never complain about, but more than a hundred times is just insulting.</p> <p>The decision is yours - if you are on a tight budget, just skip the famous rock, but if you are set on visiting the top attractions get your wallet ready.</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-date-visited.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-date-visited clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-date-visited--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited--post.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--datetime.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-date-visited field--type-datetime field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Date Visited</div> <div class="field--items"> <div class="field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2020-08-07T12:00:00Z">August 2020</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="row bs-2col"> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-destinations.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-destinations clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Destinations</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-destinations--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations--post.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-destinations.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> <ul class="field__items_list"> <li><a href="/destination/asia" hreflang="en">Asia</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sri-lanka" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sigiriya" hreflang="en">Sigiriya</a></li> </ul> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--right"> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-gallery.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-gallery clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Gallery</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-gallery--post--default.html.twig x field--node--field-gallery--post.html.twig * field--node--field-gallery.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-gallery.html.twig * field--image.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--field-gallery--post.html.twig' --> <div class="field field-node--field-gallery field-name-field-gallery field-type-image field-label-hidden has-multiple"><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-1 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1107.JPG.jpg?itok=0IwkGWb7 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1107.JPG.jpg?itok=BJQe1Iqk 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1107.JPG.jpg?itok=p5mJmkwh 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1107.JPG.jpg?itok=0IwkGWb7" alt="The staircase" title="The staircase" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">The staircase</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-2 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1162.JPG.jpg?itok=g3qdQPkG 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1162.JPG.jpg?itok=0mqBWwYq 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1162.JPG.jpg?itok=7qzRJRWI 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1162.JPG.jpg?itok=g3qdQPkG" alt="Bathing pool" title="Bathing pool" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Bathing pool</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-3 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1177.JPG.jpg?itok=YG-oyYsr 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1177.JPG.jpg?itok=vOlsppBA 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1177.JPG.jpg?itok=UMDDfBmr 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1177.JPG.jpg?itok=YG-oyYsr" alt="View at the top of the rock" title="View at the top of the rock" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">View at the top of the rock</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-4 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1189.JPG.jpg?itok=76ZyAGoB 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1189.JPG.jpg?itok=Ml7XybEv 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1189.JPG.jpg?itok=6aQcJufM 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1189.JPG.jpg?itok=76ZyAGoB" alt="Sigiriya Ladies frescoes" title="Sigiriya Ladies frescoes" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Sigiriya Ladies frescoes</figcaption> </div> </figure><div class="adsense_gallery"> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script> <!-- po-sveta.com [responsive] --> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-6470203795457618" data-ad-slot="8094012753" data-ad-format="auto"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-5 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1218.JPG.jpg?itok=D583eh-l 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1218.JPG.jpg?itok=bn5NC1Ev 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1218.JPG.jpg?itok=R_V2OMwN 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1218.JPG.jpg?itok=D583eh-l" alt="Meditation bed and a platform on a rock" title="Meditation bed and a platform on a rock" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Meditation bed and a platform on a rock</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-6 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1241.JPG.jpg?itok=3d1h3jvK 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1241.JPG.jpg?itok=fghSZmP0 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1241.JPG.jpg?itok=rfbNv8SZ 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1241.JPG.jpg?itok=3d1h3jvK" alt="A whole building was perched on this boulder at some point. Now only the holes that supported the foundations remain." title="A whole building was perched on this boulder at some point. Now only the holes that supported the foundations remain." typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">A whole building was perched on this boulder at some point. Now only the holes that supported the foundations remain.</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-7 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1277.JPG.jpg?itok=EFfemkDn 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1277.JPG.jpg?itok=Daky19d0 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1277.JPG.jpg?itok=XBytzkTv 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1277.JPG.jpg?itok=EFfemkDn" alt="Pool in the garden" title="Pool in the garden" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Pool in the garden</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-8 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1282.JPG.jpg?itok=y4G8XQfh 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1282.JPG.jpg?itok=vuhLWCt2 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1282.JPG.jpg?itok=qzROtTXi 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/XXX_1282.JPG.jpg?itok=y4G8XQfh" alt="The moat around the fortress" title="The moat around the fortress" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">The moat around the fortress</figcaption> </div> </figure></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--field-gallery--post.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--comment.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostcomment clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Comments</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--comment--post--default.html.twig * field--node--comment--post.html.twig * field--node--comment.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--block-content--33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0.html.twig * block--block-content.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-block-content block-block-content33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0 clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--block-content--body--basic.html.twig * field--block-content--body.html.twig * field--block-content--basic.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><div class="loginBtnSocialDiv"> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--facebook"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/facebook">Login with Facebook</a> </button> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--google"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/google">Login with Google</a> </button> </div></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> Fri, 02 Oct 2020 21:08:49 +0000 2hw 110 at https://2hungrywanderers.com https://2hungrywanderers.com/lions-rock-fortress-sigiriya-palace-temple-and-more#comments The top (and only) 3 things to do in Sigiriya and where to eat https://2hungrywanderers.com/top-and-only-3-things-do-sigiriya-and-where-eat <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <h1 class="page-header">The top (and only) 3 things to do in Sigiriya and where to eat</h1> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--post.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/1" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">2hw</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--post.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span>Sat, 10/03/2020 - 00:08</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--extra-field-block--node--post--links.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node.html.twig * block--extra-field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-extra-field-blocknodepostlinks clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/mixm.jpg?itok=Q2TQ5BV_ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/mixm.jpg?itok=-gl-man5 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/mixm.jpg?itok=-t64MNu5 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-10/mixm.jpg?itok=Q2TQ5BV_" alt="The top (and only) 3 things to do in Sigiriya and where to eat" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--body.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostbody clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--post--default.html.twig * field--node--body--post.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Sigiriya is a very small town, about 180 km north-east of Colombo and is part of what is known as the "Cultural Triangle" of Sri Lanka. It is home to one of the top tourist attractions in the country and surprisingly little else, but keep on reading to see what the town has to offer. There are tons of articles listing "Top 10" or "20 amazing" things to do in Sigirya, the truth is they either list areas of Sigirya Rock as separate entries or include other towns and attractions hours away. If you are trying to pick your next stop after Sigirya, the relatively close towns of <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/destination/polonnaruwa">Polonnaruwa </a>and <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/destination/dambulla">Dambulla</a> are great choices.</p> <p>There are three reasons to include Sigiriya in your itinerary in Sri Lanka and it is time to start with the main one.</p> <h2>Sigiriya Rock Fortress</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e284f874-b97a-4346-9445-1a30b3c98192" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/mix1.jpg?itok=VF0DQPWA 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/mix1.jpg?itok=q3kGnXLj 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/mix1.jpg?itok=5o6vOdXE 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/mix1.jpg" alt="Sigiriya Rock Fortress" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The most highly praised historic site on the island has remarkable things to offer. The large rock, which geologically speaking is a volcano plug, towering over the surrounding jungle used to be home to a king's palace and later a monastery. Nowadays visitors can see restored gardens, foundations of numerous buildings and a very unusual art gallery which has been a tourist attraction for centuries.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'entity_embed_container' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <div data-embed-button="node" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.embeddable_teaser" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="79c151c2-5191-47c1-9bcb-0b6a6e16ea3d" class="align-center embedded-entity" data-langcode="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * node--110--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--110.html.twig * node--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--post.html.twig x node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> <article data-history-node-id="110" role="article" about="/lions-rock-fortress-sigiriya-palace-temple-and-more" class="post is-promoted embeddable-teaser clearfix"><div class="content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix bs-2col"> <span class="col-sm-3 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --><div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <a href="/lions-rock-fortress-sigiriya-palace-temple-and-more" hreflang="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2020-10/XXX_1083_1.JPG?itok=1o0rAWuf" width="100" height="67" alt="Lion's Rock Fortress in Sigiriya - a palace, a temple and more" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --></a> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> <span class="col-sm-9 bs-region bs-region--right"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--title.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodeposttitle clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --><div class="embeddable-teaser-title"><a href="/lions-rock-fortress-sigiriya-palace-temple-and-more" hreflang="en">Lion's Rock Fortress in Sigiriya - a palace, a temple and more</a></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> </div> </article><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <p>The Lion Fortress is as controversial as it is popular. Many people claim that the high entrance fee is not justified, but you can read our detailed post about the fortress and you can decide for yourself. Our advice - if you do not intend to enter the main site, you can just ignore the whole town.</p> <h2>Pidurangala Rock Temple</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d689e2e4-fde5-4e98-a333-223c5f0c7eec" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/mix2.jpg?itok=dRH_kcCJ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/mix2.jpg?itok=RyVTAE_t 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/mix2.jpg?itok=7iHQVIZh 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/mix2.jpg" alt="Pidurangala Rock Temple" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>In very close proximity to the top attraction, there is a smaller hill with a monastery complex. If you are more interested in nature and scenic views than history and art, the hike there will be a delight. Pidurangala is cheaper and in no way can compare to the historic monuments of Sigiriya Fortress, but regardless - a nice, short hike and a good way to spend several hours.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'entity_embed_container' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <div data-embed-button="node" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.embeddable_teaser" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="35f234b0-abdc-4d85-84a6-ee4884717e66" class="align-center embedded-entity" data-langcode="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * node--111--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--111.html.twig * node--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--post.html.twig x node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> <article data-history-node-id="111" role="article" about="/pidurangala-rock-temple-all-you-need-know-about-hike-price-and-views" class="post is-promoted embeddable-teaser clearfix"><div class="content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix bs-2col"> <span class="col-sm-3 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --><div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <a href="/pidurangala-rock-temple-all-you-need-know-about-hike-price-and-views" hreflang="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2020-08/XXX_1772.jpg?itok=cOZJKQA4" width="100" height="67" alt="Pidurangala rock temple - all you need to know about the hike, the price and the views" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --></a> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> <span class="col-sm-9 bs-region bs-region--right"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--title.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodeposttitle clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --><div class="embeddable-teaser-title"><a href="/pidurangala-rock-temple-all-you-need-know-about-hike-price-and-views" hreflang="en">Pidurangala rock temple - all you need to know about the hike, the price and the views</a></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> </div> </article><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <h2>BONUS: Small stupas and other archaeological sites</h2> <p>As like any other large central site, Lion Rock has some smaller points of interest scattered around it. It makes total sense that not all ancient buildings were placed in the relatively small area declared as an archeological reservation today. There are many smaller stupas, shrines and other buildings in the area, which have been discovered and at least partially restored. I have to be honest - they will likely fail to impress you after visiting the more popular places, but access to them is free, there are no crowds and the remains still give an indication of the significance this area once had. Majority of those are not even marked on Google Maps, so part of the fun is driving along the roads and looking for the black signs which point to the ancient buildings. </p> <h2>Watch elephants in their natural habitat</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="90c6eb66-9907-4d2a-a697-81141be76ce4" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/mix3.jpg?itok=47DGBoQQ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/mix3.jpg?itok=TxamkuUI 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/mix3.jpg?itok=f7SFKrcT 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/mix3.jpg" alt="elephant safari" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The historic sites in the Cultural Triangle are what brings most people there, but that is not all this part of Sri Lanka has to offer. If you have an afternoon to visit one of the national parks, it is very likely that you will see tens or even hundreds of wild elephants. A highly recommended experience, that will not disappoint you. There are other animals, like deer and monkeys to be seen too, plus many types of birds.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'entity_embed_container' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <div data-embed-button="node" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.embeddable_teaser" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="6ea99ffa-d88f-4dbe-9391-a7df152682e8" class="align-center embedded-entity" data-langcode="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * node--115--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--115.html.twig * node--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--post.html.twig x node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> <article data-history-node-id="115" role="article" about="/best-elephant-safari-sri-lanka-full-guide-kaudulla-and-minneriya" class="post is-promoted embeddable-teaser clearfix"><div class="content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix bs-2col"> <span class="col-sm-3 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --><div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <a href="/best-elephant-safari-sri-lanka-full-guide-kaudulla-and-minneriya" hreflang="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2020-10/XXX_1587.jpg?itok=Omq89bLW" width="100" height="67" alt="The best place for an elephant safari in Sri Lanka - all the info you need about Kaudulla and Minneriya" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --></a> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> <span class="col-sm-9 bs-region bs-region--right"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--title.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodeposttitle clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --><div class="embeddable-teaser-title"><a href="/best-elephant-safari-sri-lanka-full-guide-kaudulla-and-minneriya" hreflang="en">The best elephant safari in Sri Lanka - full guide to Kaudulla and Minneriya</a></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> </div> </article><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <p> </p> <h2>Food guide to Sigiriya</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0cfab5cd-217a-4e78-93b8-1a40a0320362" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-08-10%2018.57.58.jpg?itok=xqvcQwBL 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-08-10%2018.57.58.jpg?itok=vsN48ezg 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-08-10%2018.57.58.jpg?itok=CdDIxdQ9 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/2020-08-10%2018.57.58.jpg" alt="egg hoppers" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>For a tourist destination, Sigirya is a huge disappointment when it comes to food. There are no supermarkets nearby, just small shops and stalls selling very limited choice of fruits and vegetables.</p> <p>Some hotels may be able to arrange meals for you, but if you prefer to sort it out yourself be ready to drive a bit. </p> <p>There are a couple of restaurants on the main street which offer both local and western cuisine at unreasonably high prices, I can't speak of the quality, but there were no customers when we visited, which is always a bad sign.</p> <p>For most of our meals, we drove about 2 kilometres to the nearby village of Kimbissa. On the main intersection, there is the best option you have for a diner - a nice, very lively and popular restaurant selling local food like curries, kottu, egg hoppers - tasty and reasonably priced. There are also two bakeries open during the day selling, admittedly, limited choice of goods, but everything is fresh and tasty.</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-date-visited.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-date-visited clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-date-visited--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited--post.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--datetime.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-date-visited field--type-datetime field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Date Visited</div> <div class="field--items"> <div class="field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2020-08-07T12:00:00Z">August 2020</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="row bs-2col"> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-destinations.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-destinations clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Destinations</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-destinations--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations--post.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-destinations.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> <ul class="field__items_list"> <li><a href="/destination/asia" hreflang="en">Asia</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sri-lanka" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sigiriya" hreflang="en">Sigiriya</a></li> </ul> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--right"> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--comment.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostcomment clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Comments</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--comment--post--default.html.twig * field--node--comment--post.html.twig * field--node--comment.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--block-content--33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0.html.twig * block--block-content.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-block-content block-block-content33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0 clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--block-content--body--basic.html.twig * field--block-content--body.html.twig * field--block-content--basic.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><div class="loginBtnSocialDiv"> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--facebook"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/facebook">Login with Facebook</a> </button> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--google"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/google">Login with Google</a> </button> </div></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> Fri, 02 Oct 2020 21:08:48 +0000 2hw 109 at https://2hungrywanderers.com https://2hungrywanderers.com/top-and-only-3-things-do-sigiriya-and-where-eat#comments Ritigala - simple yet impressive ancient forest monastery https://2hungrywanderers.com/ritigala-simple-yet-impressive-ancient-forest-monastery <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <h1 class="page-header">Ritigala - simple yet impressive ancient forest monastery</h1> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--post.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/1" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">2hw</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--post.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span>Wed, 09/02/2020 - 17:14</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--extra-field-block--node--post--links.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node.html.twig * block--extra-field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-extra-field-blocknodepostlinks clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-09/XXX_1048.jpg?itok=w_NmMUMO 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-09/XXX_1048.jpg?itok=NA5r7bd7 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-09/XXX_1048.jpg?itok=wBclbVs9 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-09/XXX_1048.jpg?itok=w_NmMUMO" alt="Ritigala ancient monastery" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--body.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostbody clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--post--default.html.twig * field--node--body--post.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Ritigala is an ancient monastery hidden in the greenery at the foot of a mountain bearing the same name in the Northern part of Sri Lanka, 30-40 km from both Anuradhapura and Sigiriya. It is the highest mountain in the Northern region and has a peculiar weather pattern, very different from the land surrounding it. While it is dry and hot in this part of Sri Lanka, the summit has a cooler climate with more rainfall. Because of this microclimate, the flora and fauna of Ritigala are rare and unique and the mountain has been declared a strict natural reserve since 1941 in order to preserve it.</p> <p>The misty mountain holds many legends. The best known is that when Laksmana, brother of Prince Rama, was wounded, the Monkey God Hanuman brought medicinal herbs from the Himalayas to heal him. On the way, he dropped a chunk of the precious plants and it fell where Ritigala is and this is the reason for the abundance of healing herbs that can be found on the summit.</p> <p>The Ritigala monastic complex is more than 2 thousand years old - dated to 2BC, it was active for over a millennium, abandoned and forgotten with the end of the Anuradhapura kingdom in 10-11 century AD. The architecture of this monastery is different than other sites of the same period. No Buddha statues around, no decorations, only huge stone blocks arranged into platforms, pathways and bridges. The ascetic monks who inhabited this place are said to have rejected all worldly possessions and vanities and lived a simple life, meditating along the wide stone-paved walkways and in the simple, but solid buildings.</p> <h2>The site</h2> <p>Not many people visit Ritigala, it is mentioned in the Lonely Planet book about Sri Lanka, but is still off the beaten track, because of its remote location. No public transport runs here, and Sigiriya is about 2 hours away by car, along some very bumpy roads. If you don't have your own vehicle, getting to the forest monastery is close to impossible.</p> <p><em>Rassagala is a another forest monastery, located close to Ampara, it is yet to gain popularity and if you are looking for less visited attractions off the tourist map it is a great place to travel to.</em></p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'entity_embed_container' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <div data-embed-button="node" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.embeddable_teaser" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="3de1f593-096d-48c7-88d7-83adb10760d7" class="align-center embedded-entity" data-langcode="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * node--113--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--113.html.twig * node--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--post.html.twig x node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> <article data-history-node-id="113" role="article" about="/rassagala-rajagala-ancient-monastery-one-future-top-attractions-sri-lanka" class="post is-promoted embeddable-teaser clearfix"><div class="content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix bs-2col"> <span class="col-sm-3 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --><div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <a href="/rassagala-rajagala-ancient-monastery-one-future-top-attractions-sri-lanka" hreflang="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2020-08/main_0.JPG?itok=BVOBeDQS" width="100" height="67" alt="Rassagala, Sri Lanka" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --></a> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> <span class="col-sm-9 bs-region bs-region--right"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--title.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodeposttitle clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --><div class="embeddable-teaser-title"><a href="/rassagala-rajagala-ancient-monastery-one-future-top-attractions-sri-lanka" hreflang="en">Rassagala (Rajagala) ancient monastery - one of the future top attractions in Sri Lanka</a></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> </div> </article><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <p>No map is available of the site, but once you get the general direction there is only one main path. It goes from up the ticket office and to the left to the pond Banda Pokuna, then along its left side and upwards again. The pathway from the pond is wide, covered with stone plates and there are quite a bit of stairs to climb. It goes through several cleared and restored buildings and ends in the forest at the border of the Ritigala Strict Natural reserve - a barb wire fence.</p> <p>But this is not all there is. There are lots of ruins in the forest, hidden between the trees. There are narrow trails going left and right off the main track that can be explored. When at the top, there is a trail that goes on the left in the forest, it makes a circle and before it connects back to the main trail it leads through ruins of buildings, bridges, a big stone pool or well and drip-ledge caves. It takes some time to explore, but is well worth it. There are almost no signs, which makes the walk around a bit of an adventure, but distances are short and there is no real danger of getting lost.</p> <p>A hike up and down the main path covering all the restored buildings takes about one - one and a half hours. We followed all the paths we found and ventured into the forest along some almost invisible trails and spent more than three hours at the site.</p> <h2>Our visit</h2> <p>We arrived at the small parking lot in the early afternoon. Got our 1000 LKR ticket from the ticket booth there and turned down an offer for a guide. We knew there might be some detours through the forest and were prepared with good shoes (not flip-flops) and enough water for a few hours of climbing in the heat of the day.</p> <p>It was not as hot as the rest of the region around the mountain. The forest is thick and the shade of the trees was so deep that even the midday sun could not penetrate. But while admittedly cooler, it was very humid and we sweat quite a bit.</p> <p>The first stop after the ticket booth was the man-made water reservoir Banda Pokuna. Bigger than most ponds we have seen in similar forest monasteries in Sri Lanka, it has an imposing stepped wall built of long stone blocks. There were workers restoring the wall, half of it already done, the rest still in disarray, but no less impressive. The purpose of this water tank is not clear today, some theories suggest it was a bathing pool for the monks and anyone who ventured into the monastery, while others believe it was for storing water to be used in the whole complex.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="The stepped wall of the pond" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d35f5958-1918-442f-8114-a0e19e607c94" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1059_0.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1059_0.JPG.jpg?itok=xkEkLAw3 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1059_0.JPG.jpg?itok=mqhgspIq 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1059_0.JPG.jpg?itok=H6XKKz7X 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The stepped wall of Banda Pokuna</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The main path itself is worth some attention - it is the actual ancient walkway and stairway of the monastery and is wide, covered with stones with interlocking plates and edged with curbstones. It leads up through the forest and past several cleared and restored foundations of buildings.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Stone path" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b251912-36b3-496e-904e-c2f790602ce5" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0932.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0932.JPG.jpg?itok=wRE5iSa0 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0932.JPG.jpg?itok=a6xXJa0M 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0932.JPG.jpg?itok=IwVtpTmj 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The main walkway leading up into the monastery</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Stone path" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43057888-78ef-4e24-9f2a-dd0f0e36fc28" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0935.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0935.JPG.jpg?itok=aq07ZXjl 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0935.JPG.jpg?itok=Vun3F3Jv 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0935.JPG.jpg?itok=r35vyP2u 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The big stone slabs still holding strong</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>A bit to the side, on the right of the first group of restored buildings, is an ancient hospital. Scattered around you can see the grinding stones, that were used to process medicinal herbs. There is a rectangular stone bath that was filled with oils and herbs and then patient soaked in it to alleviate their illnesses.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Hospital at Ritigala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df9d821f-c40b-4c38-8b39-e5a3b0bc63f0" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1038.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1038.JPG.jpg?itok=-yqndkq4 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1038.JPG.jpg?itok=EFAW87NS 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1038.JPG.jpg?itok=UqYibnlU 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Ancient hospital</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="grinding stone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e31b0c61-da23-4acd-b313-da5633827275" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1042.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1042.jpg?itok=oKnO3kZ_ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1042.jpg?itok=AfttbGjQ 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1042.jpg?itok=vuEe-dU4 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Grinding stone, the surface is very smooth</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>There is a detour on a trail on the left a bit further up - it is the only marked trail (the sign was in Sinhalese only). It goes to what was signed as a Library when we visited, but the Lonely Planet book described as a fort, most probably the general consensus on what the building had been changed in the few years between our visit and the publishing of the book. A solid stone bridge over a stream still stands in its original place.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="stone bridge" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e28adb8-32b5-43e5-ac3a-8e9506493fa4" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0942.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0942.jpg?itok=V8weEh6c 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0942.jpg?itok=4iDPO77a 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0942.jpg?itok=wf4jHf9m 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Stone bridge over a stream</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Library at Ritigala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b0b9176b-2610-4f0d-91db-dccbdc771cb7" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0949.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0949.JPG.jpg?itok=ubdnttRe 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0949.JPG.jpg?itok=xj47qvPp 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0949.JPG.jpg?itok=4X_URhIg 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Library. Maybe. The huge stone blocks are typical for Ritigala</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>After the Library, it seemed that there was nothing more in this direction, so we went back on the main path. A couple of hours later we would come to realize that there was a path from the Library and into the forest when we reached it from the other side following a narrow trail in that branched off the main one a bit further up.</p> <p>Back on the main path, we went through several clearings with foundations of structures, and the furthest up were a couple of double-platform buildings. Characteristic of the architecture of Ritigala, those structures consist of two raised stone platforms connected with a stone bridge. It is thought that there were small buildings on top of them and were used for meditation. Similar double-platform patterns can be seen in other ancient monasteries in the country of the Anuradhapura period.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Double-platform building" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5354dba4-f5a3-461d-8dc7-df8715c370ac" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0975.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0975.JPG.jpg?itok=PloCcaxv 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0975.JPG.jpg?itok=3uTXr90K 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0975.JPG.jpg?itok=oR9a2TWG 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Double-platform building</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="wall" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6afe79a-970c-4326-858a-9bd7b3af113d" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0976.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0976.jpg?itok=sa_OFeY7 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0976.jpg?itok=tZ0ifHzk 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0976.jpg?itok=Rtba5Dzk 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The stones fit perfectly</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The main footpath ends abruptly, a dirt path continues for a short distance and disappears after the fence of the strict natural reserve. When we reached the top, I have to admit, we were a bit disappointed. "Was that it?" we thought. It took us about 40 minutes to get there and while it was interesting, it felt like it did not live up to our expectations.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Double-platform building" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a9b6839-c503-40c6-af96-bdaea929b865" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0958.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0958.jpg?itok=Jd1fiYkJ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0958.jpg?itok=1aMoocuu 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0958.jpg?itok=JlKnmjkT 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The only broken part of the whole building</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>We stood there, trying to get some mobile network coverage on our phone to make sure we were not missing anything, but so far up the mountain, we had no luck. From our research of the place previous, there was information about ruins in the forest, but we had explored the only side trail we found, it led to the Library and there were no more. We were sure that was not all, we must have missed something, but short of going straight into the forest, we could not figure out another way. Maybe it was time to just call it a day and go back.</p> <p>There was a big tree near the end of the path and while walking around to take photos of all angles we noticed there was a very narrow path into the forest. It seemed more like an animal trail, but we followed it anyway and got to an ancient toilet - surprisingly similar to the squatting toilets used today.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Ancient toilet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8bc7313f-2370-4f60-b63b-212999666d89" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0962.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0962.JPG.jpg?itok=8-tEX7AN 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0962.JPG.jpg?itok=AE-3lbh- 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0962.JPG.jpg?itok=toN4l1OI 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Ancient toilet</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>So, that was our mistake - we expected the side trails to be marked, or at least easy to spot, but they weren't. We started to look more closely and going back down we found a trail on the right. We decided to give it a go. It went into the forest and at places it was barely distinguishable. We had doubts whether it would lead us anywhere meaningful, but pushed on despite that. We tried to memorize markers along it, in case we had to backtrack. The shoes really came through here - it would have been very unpleasant to trek through the jungle in flip-flops.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Sunken stairs" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48c537b2-2481-4621-9bfb-7b3a41bba6c0" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0939.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0939.JPG.jpg?itok=NvcoL80L 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0939.JPG.jpg?itok=IP4bvIUg 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0939.JPG.jpg?itok=n4rJosCZ 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The stairs have sunken a bit, but are still recognizable</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Ruins in the forest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4cd79250-4285-4862-861b-763fafe10578" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0960.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0960.JPG.jpg?itok=NAtBsi5J 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0960.JPG.jpg?itok=vU3zaT01 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0960.JPG.jpg?itok=qa0Np_Ch 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The forest is full of ruined buildings, the straight edges of the stone blocks easy to spot</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>As it turned out, this was the right trail. The overgrown narrow path meandered around ruins buried in the jungle - mounds of earth and bricks with granite columns that once supported roofs sticking out, trees growing out of remains of double-platform structures, the huge rock blocks covered in dry leaves, water pipes carved of stone scattered on the ground.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Stone pipes" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9f270a77-74d3-4a12-8a93-016738e41ff3" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0973.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0973.JPG.jpg?itok=a8u9PJcD 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0973.JPG.jpg?itok=HBHbwzjx 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0973.JPG.jpg?itok=YhBRgliF 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Stone pipes</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Stone pipes" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="952e25c8-b66f-4e64-a292-9a3805efca77" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0996.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0996.JPG.jpg?itok=OvGkmrdn 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0996.JPG.jpg?itok=TDFzG03f 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0996.JPG.jpg?itok=bkcMXDA9 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">A small mound that once supported a building had many pipes coming out in different directions, some kind of water distribution or a fountain</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="ruins" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4764df57-5243-4869-91c9-b57c5a71acfc" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1023.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1023.JPG.jpg?itok=2EcnOCDx 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1023.JPG.jpg?itok=KMBPeXxI 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1023.JPG.jpg?itok=ek8Tdb90 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">How buildings were constructed - rocks were arranged on a solid stone base, then plated with stone slabs, the building went on top of those </figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>In a small clearing, we found a big stone bathing pond, or possibly a well. There was no signage around it and the hardly noticeable trail was the only way to it.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="A well" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="383a8ab9-c319-4c78-b86e-6b518962311a" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_0988.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0988.JPG.jpg?itok=DtcwVCn2 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0988.JPG.jpg?itok=8WJrDSHk 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_0988.JPG.jpg?itok=aV3Jgyn6 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">A well</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The narrow trail then led us to several drip-ledge caves. Remains of brick walls suggested the caves had been closed off and used as buildings. Then the path circled back to the Library and the main walkway.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Drip-ledge cave" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37a6d842-4dcc-4840-bcfa-44ad7e13e159" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1010.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1010.JPG.jpg?itok=sST6dJUZ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1010.JPG.jpg?itok=3E83nTsD 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1010.JPG.jpg?itok=TH-jzkcb 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Drip-ledge cave with a wall</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Drip-ledge cave" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8216e4bb-a43d-444e-a500-e10714e95fd6" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_1013.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1013.JPG.jpg?itok=rodKQABX 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1013.JPG.jpg?itok=mb6fyAq7 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_1013.JPG.jpg?itok=W50CKjT7 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">A stone seat in front of the cave, many people have left graffiti all over</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>There are similar trails on the other side of the main one, going to other yet unexplored structures covered by the jungle - wide stone paths used as meditation walks and more double-platform buildings.</p> <p>We spent about 3 hours walking around the complex, first along the main pathway, and then following side trails to ruins buried by layers of dry leaves, earth and trees. While the restored structures along the main track were very interesting, we enjoyed discovering the buildings and stone structures swallowed by the jungle and exploring the long lost world even more than that.</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-date-visited.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-date-visited clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-date-visited--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited--post.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--datetime.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-date-visited field--type-datetime field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Date Visited</div> <div class="field--items"> <div class="field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2020-08-06T12:00:00Z">August 2020</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="row bs-2col"> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-destinations.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-destinations clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Destinations</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-destinations--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations--post.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-destinations.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> <ul class="field__items_list"> <li><a href="/destination/asia" hreflang="en">Asia</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sri-lanka" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka</a></li> </ul> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--right"> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--comment.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostcomment clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Comments</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--comment--post--default.html.twig * field--node--comment--post.html.twig * field--node--comment.html.twig * 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field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><div class="loginBtnSocialDiv"> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--facebook"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/facebook">Login with Facebook</a> </button> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--google"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/google">Login with Google</a> </button> </div></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> Wed, 02 Sep 2020 14:14:19 +0000 2hw 114 at https://2hungrywanderers.com https://2hungrywanderers.com/ritigala-simple-yet-impressive-ancient-forest-monastery#comments Rassagala (Rajagala) ancient monastery - one of the future top attractions in Sri Lanka https://2hungrywanderers.com/rassagala-rajagala-ancient-monastery-one-future-top-attractions-sri-lanka <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <h1 class="page-header">Rassagala (Rajagala) ancient monastery - one of the future top attractions in Sri Lanka</h1> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--post.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/1" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">2hw</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--post.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span>Fri, 08/28/2020 - 17:29</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--extra-field-block--node--post--links.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node.html.twig * block--extra-field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-extra-field-blocknodepostlinks clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/main_0.JPG.jpg?itok=NRaxX8w6 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/main_0.JPG.jpg?itok=YXb49xNY 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/main_0.JPG.jpg?itok=Jdxmpzp1 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/main_0.JPG.jpg?itok=NRaxX8w6" alt="Rassagala, Sri Lanka" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--body.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostbody clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--post--default.html.twig * field--node--body--post.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Located 15 km north of Ampara, Rajagala, or Rassagala, is nothing but a blip on the tourist map of Sri Lanka. The ruins of a 3 BC monastery complex are still being reclaimed from the thick jungle by archaeologists, bits of buildings and stupas meticulously excavated and puzzled together to reveal what was once a huge site with hundreds of buildings and stupas atop a hill, second only to Mihintale in Anuradhapura.</p> <p>The legend goes that people of the Raksha tribe, worshipping the Rakshasas - mythological demons, lived there. Over time the word "Raksha" became "Rassa", hence the name Rassagala - Demon's mountain. Later, as the monastery complex was developed under the rule of the Anuradhapura kings, starting in 2 BC, the name changed to Rajagala - The King's Rock.</p> <p>The history of the place is not clear, there are a big number of drip-ledge caves that were probably used as early as 3 BC by Buddhist monks. Rajagala is only one of two places in Sri Lanka that has an inscription mentioning Arahath Mahinda Thero - the monk who brought Buddhism to the country, some even think this was his burial spot, which would confirm that there was a working monastery or hermitage here at that time. But even further than that, there are caves with Vedda writings or petroglyphs, which would indicate that people were present at this hill even in pre-Buddhist times.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'entity_embed_container' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <div data-embed-button="node" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.embeddable_teaser" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="62b83255-67ac-4b9c-a3c1-2bf87187a5e4" class="align-center embedded-entity" data-langcode="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * node--108--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--108.html.twig * node--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node--post.html.twig x node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * node.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> <article data-history-node-id="108" role="article" about="/mihintale-cradle-buddhism-sri-lanka" class="post is-promoted embeddable-teaser clearfix"><div class="content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="clearfix bs-2col"> <span class="col-sm-3 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --><div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> <a href="/mihintale-cradle-buddhism-sri-lanka" hreflang="en"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image_style' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2020-08/XXX_4668.JPG?itok=rQTuFfQX" width="100" height="67" alt="Mihintale - the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-style.html.twig' --></a> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/image/templates/image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> <span class="col-sm-9 bs-region bs-region--right"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--title.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodeposttitle clearfix"><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --><!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig * field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --><div class="embeddable-teaser-title"><a href="/mihintale-cradle-buddhism-sri-lanka" hreflang="en">Mihintale - the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka</a></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --> </section><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --></span> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> </div> </article><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/node--embeddable-teaser.html.twig' --></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/entity_embed/templates/entity-embed-container.html.twig' --> <p>We found very little information about Rajagala online - in several places it was mentioned that it is a huge site, but we were not sure whether it was possible to visit at all or what exactly we would be able to see there.</p> <p>There are two reasons for the lack of information and conflicting reports. First, it is very much off the tourist track, both for local travellers and even more for international visitors, and second, archaeologists are currently digging up the place and had started with it just few years back in 2015. There were reports online about jungle treks, very few excavated buildings and need for guides, but when we visited (August 2020) things had apparently developed quite a bit, and there were restored, well-established paths, a lot of buildings on top are unearthed, and the whole site can easily be walked on your own in about 4-5 hours.</p> <p><em>If you want to visit the site, a trek of the whole place is around 10 km, which took us 5 hours with all the stops for taking pictures, exploring, resting and taking in the atmosphere. It can be cut short by just visiting the main zone, but still, you will need 2-3 hours. There is a steep hike up at the start, that took us around 40 minutes.</em></p> <p><em>Make sure you take enough water with you, there are no vendors and no drinkable water on site. At least 1l - 1.5l per person.</em></p> <p><em>At the guard booth at the car parking, we were shown a map and we could take a picture to use. The original map is Sinhalese, here is a copy of it, I have marked it in English - <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/2020-08/RajagalaMap_1.jpg">download high-resolution version from here</a>.</em></p> <h2>Our day at Rassagala</h2> <p>We arrived at the car park around 9, and as is the way with everything in Sri Lanka - better to start early to take advantage of the morning fresh air.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="The turnoff to Rassagala from the main road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e18b810c-6b69-4dd7-8c33-4d270465c841" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9877.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9877.JPG.jpg?itok=gV-Gj5Nh 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9877.JPG.jpg?itok=4icQJhhR 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9877.JPG.jpg?itok=IIymo4cN 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The turn off to Rassagala from the main road from Ampara is clearly marked</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>At the moment, there are 3 points in Google maps - "Rajagalathanna Car Park - Section A", "Rajagalathanna Car Park - Section B" and "Rajagalathanna Car Park - Section C" and the path starts at parking A. If coming from Ampara there is a sign pointing to Rassagala Archaeological site a short distance after passing through the town centre, Google tried to navigate us through some inner streets before that - they are in awful condition, best is to look for the sign and follow that road.</p> <p>The car park was brand new, just a couple of other cars there except us. The path started on one side and there was a guard booth, that would probably turn into a ticket booth at some point, but when we visited we only signed the guest book.</p> <p>They had a map we could take a picture of - everything was in Sinhalese only, but still, it was great to have a map and this made it so much easier to go around the whole site. As it is an active archaeological dig, the map was not 100% up to date, there were some more buildings already cleared up. <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/2020-08/RajagalaMap_1.jpg">Get our translation of the map here</a>.</p> <p>The people at the booth tried to help us with the map, pointing some of the places, but their English was not great. It turned out one of them was a guide and he very reluctantly offered his services, probably worried he wouldn't be able to communicate well with us. We declined the offer and he seemed relieved. Opting to do it on our own was definitely the right choice, exploring the place at our own pace was a nice experience and in combination with the Sinhalese map there were enough signs in English to help us around.</p> <p>The guard and the guide made sure to warn us that it is a 10 km trek to go around the whole site and it takes 4-5 hours, but we had the whole day planned for this visit and were prepared with enough water and comfortable shoes, so that was not an issue.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="QR sign at Rassagala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0232f4b5-dc5d-4f5e-96ee-fc2d1fe11afe" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/scanme.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/scanme.jpg?itok=ZlR0aq7s 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/scanme.jpg?itok=VwbAtEX3 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/scanme.jpg?itok=grIeegjK 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Scan the QR code to get more information about the sights</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>A lot of the sights had signed with names or building types, both in English and Sinhalese. In addition, there were stickers with QR codes that said "Scan me", which at first we discarded as some kind of spam. But the further up we went, the QR codes were still on most signs and we started wondering how dedicated this spammer would have been to climb the steep hill barely visited by anyone just to advertise something? So, sweaty and out of breath, we scanned one to see what the deal was. It turned out they were actually part of the signs - the QR code scans to a text in both English and Sinhalese with more detailed explanations of what you are seeing. Very handy!</p> <h3>The way up</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Rassagala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="471077b9-c464-4899-96ea-5f0781d2082c" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9578%20-%20Exhibition%20%281%29.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9578%20-%20Exhibition%20%281%29.JPG.jpg?itok=5NJybxjo 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9578%20-%20Exhibition%20%281%29.JPG.jpg?itok=rMs4D_NG 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9578%20-%20Exhibition%20%281%29.JPG.jpg?itok=EX6_PzLd 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Five-headed naga stone</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Shortly after starting along the trail, in a small flat area, we reached an <strong>open-air museum</strong> of sorts. Several carved rocks found in the forest were arranged for viewing. There was a grinding stone, half of a very detailed big guard stone, five-headed naga and some others, worth spending several minutes to have a look.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Rassagala - path through the forest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="463e03e9-b554-4c7b-b427-f43727d536a1" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9596.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9596.JPG.jpg?itok=NNzFRyR6 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9596.JPG.jpg?itok=65HW4NL0 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9596.JPG.jpg?itok=H25GOCBx 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Ancient staircase</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The path uphill was along the Southern ancient stairway, the stairs scattered in the earth, but the rectangular-shaped rocks still unmistakably recognizable. It was around 40 minutes hike up through the forest, a bit of an effort, but the shade of the trees the whole way made it easier.</p> <h3>Mahinda's stupa and the pond</h3> <p>Once at the top, the forest clears and the ancient site spreads ahead, a man-made pond with stepped stone walls and remnants of buildings. There are two designated major zones - <strong>zone 1</strong> being the first dig, and main one, <strong>zone 2</strong>, on top of the hill where works were still done. Then further than that is the <strong>zone with the drip-ledge caves</strong>, which is completely covered by the forest.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Mahinda stupa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e39a28c6-9d6b-40c1-8b20-fd78d8a4c61f" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9623.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9623.JPG.jpg?itok=gRz0STVf 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9623.JPG.jpg?itok=07Q8veAS 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9623.JPG.jpg?itok=xqiizyvU 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">View on the top - Mahinda's stupa (right) and the pond in the distance (left)</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The path goes left of the <strong>Mahinda's stupa</strong> first - there is not much left of it now - a bunch of brick-shaped stones sit in a mound-like pile. At the moment there haven't been any excavations done to confirm that the legendary monk is indeed buried here. A bit after that there is an ancient inscription in the rock face.</p> <p>A short detour on the right after the inscription lead to a curiously shaped drip-ledge cave - the huge stone protrudes in the centre, a pillar-like portion supporting its weight and forming an umbrella-shaped shelter, giving it the name<strong> Umbrella cave</strong>. There are a few drip-ledge caves around this one and several more across the pond from it, but the major group of caves, numbering 130, is located a bit further up the way.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Rassagala - the Umbrella cave" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e2fe363-4c0d-46b9-966e-fcc4278d466c" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9646.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9646.JPG.jpg?itok=jNTDmjRq 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9646.JPG.jpg?itok=Jav83l20 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9646.JPG.jpg?itok=onxinoSs 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Maybe natural, maybe man-made - the Umbrella cave</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The drip-ledge caves are characteristic of the Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka during the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods, and even until today. Niches in the stones and between huge boulders are cleared and an edge is carved along the front of the cave - it prevents the water from sliding along the rock, instead it drips to the ground from the edge, providing dry shelter inside of the cave. Sometimes walls of stone, bricks or mud were erected to form a full building under the rock. Those caves were used, and some still are, by Buddhist monks as living quarters or meditation spaces.</p> <p>After the Umbrella cave, the path goes around the pond and to a small shaded rest area, the main path continues straight, but we veered to the left and up the stairs at this junction to have a look at the group of buildings a bit higher on the hill - zone 2 of the archaeological site.</p> <h3>Zone 2</h3> <p>When we visited in August 2020, some of the buildings were still half-way excavated, and some were being restored. The map we were given at the foot of the hill was missing some of the newly excavated plots. The progress of the work is quite impressive, especially taking into consideration the exploration started just few years back - in 2015.</p> <p>On top on the hill, the foundations of 5 buildings and 1 stupa were visible. The balustrades and stairs are very well preserved, as well as the stone floors, columns, moonstones and guard stones. Bigger and smaller pieces of roof tiles are sprinkled on the ground, a reminder that the bare skeletons of the buildings in front of us now, were once covered with solid roofs.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Rassagala - work in progress" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="18872e80-a629-42a2-9be2-38c025fa38b8" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9664.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9664.JPG.jpg?itok=VEQ4puCu 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9664.JPG.jpg?itok=bASin9ZA 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9664.JPG.jpg?itok=lI78UswR 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Not yet restored ancient building</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Immediately after climbing the steps, on the right, were a couple of buildings, their stairs and the moonstones in disarray, the floors inside - an uneven mess, and balustrades laying flat. Those buildings had been recently uncovered and not yet properly puzzled together to restore and preserve them better. A very interesting sight, showing how the archaeological process works.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Vatadage at Rassagala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a389a3a9-f194-459b-ae57-139c3723d979" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9705.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9705.JPG.jpg?itok=UvLNcnq_ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9705.JPG.jpg?itok=U09jgVqS 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9705.JPG.jpg?itok=TjhnETBl 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Round image house - the two guard stones in front are very well preserved</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>On the left of the path were two image houses. One round, positioned on a square platform, with beautifully carved guard stones beside the entrance. The other one was a bit smaller, the stone where the central statue had been still standing in place, empty, the statue itself no longer there.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Rassagala - old stupa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="094467d8-24c1-458b-8213-32de9d6242e1" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9678.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9678.JPG.jpg?itok=q17yhbh6 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9678.JPG.jpg?itok=iq97x061 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9678.JPG.jpg?itok=EXOAJMpb 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Stupa with a round altar</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Further, a small stupa, with an altar was half-way restored. The centuries underground had warped the shape of the brick structure a little, but it was very much recognizable. No trace was left of the plaster that probably covered it at some point, but the bricks were still keeping strong.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Cave with Paintings" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d61b363b-e702-46af-8bb9-dbd21b387503" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9719.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9719.jpg?itok=Ccu3k6nE 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9719.jpg?itok=Xd_bbcDv 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9719.jpg?itok=x2bZ96vi 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Faded painting, some geometrical forms are still distinguishable</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>To get to the main site we went back to the pond and headed to the next clearing in the forest. Along the way was the <strong>Cave with Paintings</strong> - this drip-ledge cave was probably fully covered in plaster and painted with beautiful figures. Now, there was a small portion left, but nothing was recognizable in the faded colours of the drawing. Still, an interesting spot, and gives a glimpse, be it a very blurred one, into what those caves and buildings looked like a millennia ago.</p> <h3>Zone 1</h3> <p>The main zone holds the largest sights and was clearly the center of the monastery complex. A long straight wide path, covered in huge stone plates rolls between the newly unearthed chapter house, refractory, water distribution place and several other buildings.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Chapter house" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="331ab21f-9836-43dd-92ad-8da4488347e4" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9743.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9743.JPG.jpg?itok=yOSfh070 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9743.JPG.jpg?itok=36Ekwk7f 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9743.JPG.jpg?itok=aASEtC7c 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The pool in the chapter house</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>What is thought to be the <strong>Chapter house</strong> has a small pool in the middle surrounded by columns that used to support a roof.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="The refractory at Rassagala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad5f818e-87fe-4740-bf94-dd2ad2647e7a" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9751.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9751.JPG.jpg?itok=EIPeFCPT 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9751.JPG.jpg?itok=7aflddeT 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9751.JPG.jpg?itok=Eh0lWzor 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The refractory</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Next, the <strong>Refractory</strong>, with its vast hall, says a lot about the size of the monastery that was active for centuries here. It has an unexpected oval form, uncommon for the Sri Lankan architecture of the time.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Stone bowls" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="600ea466-66cf-49d7-bd37-3f6c27316846" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9740.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9740.JPG.jpg?itok=jbZZpI5l 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9740.JPG.jpg?itok=-DO0PrWu 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9740.JPG.jpg?itok=owG6D6Md 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The House of the stone bowls for water distribution</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- THEME DEBUG --><!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --><!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Stone bowls" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f6f1efc9-681f-4b7f-8e2d-717452fc8f06" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9843.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9843.JPG.jpg?itok=fa7azi9E 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9843.JPG.jpg?itok=RqrDjGE6 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9843.JPG.jpg?itok=fUL9-Si5 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Stone pipe carved as a dragon head</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The <strong>House of the stone bowls</strong> must have been some kind of water distribution place. A stone pipe is coming from the hill above, its end a carved dragon head. The water running through it pours over another stone pipe perpendicular to the first one and then splits the liquid between two huge stone bowls - over a meter in height and around 1.5 m diameter. There are drainage pipes for the excess running out of the building and distributing water around the complex. There are several places where underground canals are visible under the stone paths.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Unfinished Buddha statue" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb6627a7-65fb-46a4-9a61-8db0dda700e8" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9760.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9760.JPG.jpg?itok=_hZCPQpJ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9760.JPG.jpg?itok=Z7mpdT-b 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9760.JPG.jpg?itok=gz-y8rYq 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Unfinished Buddha statue - the finer details are missing, no face, no fingers</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>After the Refractory a short stroll on the left leads to an <strong>unfinished Buddha statue</strong> laying on the ground. For some unknown reason, this tall statue of a standing Buddha was left there, with just a few details missing. It was probably an imperfection in the stone that stopped the craftsmen of the time from completing their task, or it witnessed the end of the monastery itself, abandoned with the rest of the complex.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Stupa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4055c082-37e8-43b8-8d54-476a1e566bc1" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9780.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9780.JPG.jpg?itok=FKG_aDq0 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9780.JPG.jpg?itok=iVWPUSZ9 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9780.JPG.jpg?itok=B0B2ybvX 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The stone parasol on the top is very distinctive</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>At the end of the main path, there are two big stupas numbered <strong>Stupas N1 and N2</strong>. The thing to note here is that stupa number 2 has a small stone umbrella on top - an element characteristic of the time, but rarely seen nowadays. The detail is fragile and quickly crumbles down with time, we have seen such stones laying around stupas in other archaeological sites and have read about it in the National Museum in Colombo, but this is the only ancient place we have seen it actually positioned on top of a stupa.</p> <h3>The drip-ledge caves</h3> <p>From this point, a path goes to the right and in the forest and leads to several of the 130 drip-ledge caves sprinkled hidden in the thick jungle.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Veddha paintings on a cave in Rassagala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="876cc21f-284e-47ba-bc73-42c85522e901" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9799.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9799.JPG.jpg?itok=ZhcRD9EZ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9799.JPG.jpg?itok=xRibbT2Y 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9799.JPG.jpg?itok=uMJIQ1XR 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">More than 2 thousand years old Vedda paintings</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The first one was just at the start of the path and has <strong>Vedda paintings</strong> - Veddas are the indigenous people of the island and pre-date Buddhism. The petroglyphs are barely visible on the walls, a reminder of forgotten times.</p> <p>The path goes up and through the forest, a bit narrow in places and not as wide as the previous sections, but still easily followed.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Shamikha cave" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e42975b6-da97-48ec-a5ec-9921fdeb3aa6" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9835.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9835.JPG.jpg?itok=aeO5WZKd 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9835.JPG.jpg?itok=vzBpzfBT 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9835.JPG.jpg?itok=vmXla6t1 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Shamikha cave had several rooms</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>After 10-15 minutes we reached is <strong>Shamikha cave</strong> - a wide cave with a high drip-ledge. There are stone columns and parts of stone walls still in place, showing that there was a house built-in the niche under the boulders. Here the path forks - right side leading down to the main site and left side leading to several more caves.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Stone door" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6c96b932-1647-47a1-adec-907b09c124ce" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9812.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9812.JPG.jpg?itok=OXMNDzTC 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9812.JPG.jpg?itok=cezS4sBN 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9812.JPG.jpg?itok=nWKSGC-9 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The stone doorway of this cave-building is still holding its shape after a millennia</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The next cave was the <strong>Stone door cave</strong>, the name comes from the stone frame of the entrance still standing strong on top of the solid stairs leading up to it. This "cave" must have been a spectacular sight in its time - with tall solid walls and several rooms, including an indoor toilet. The rectangular stones that were once part of the building leaning on huge boulders were scattered around in disarray now.</p> <p>The path after that cave becomes a little bit harder to follow, we had to carefully look to make sure we are on an actual path and not a random trail in the forest. This might have been because there had been fewer people after the COVID 19 lockdown in the country, or just this part of the route was not visited that often.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Ancient toilet at Rassagala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0242c0e-0bdd-462a-9453-24f5b9fdfec7" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9831_0.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9831_0.JPG.jpg?itok=w364KNl4 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9831_0.JPG.jpg?itok=7uYr_Vkc 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9831_0.JPG.jpg?itok=7fbbdrnz 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">Ancient squatting toilet</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>A not so easy to spot trail to the left leads to an <strong>ancient toilet </strong>stone, the shape surprisingly similar to modern-day squatting toilets.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Cool cave" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="92733063-f904-4399-b2f5-5f04c3f8c6f4" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9826.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9826.JPG.jpg?itok=Jvz4dkYL 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9826.JPG.jpg?itok=JWaokmto 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9826.JPG.jpg?itok=K9UBxXHY 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The two dark door openings of the Cool cave, it is almost as if someone is still living there</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>At what seemed the end of the path we found the <strong>Cool cave</strong>, the name is the original since ancient times, according to an inscription found nearby. The walls of it are still standing and it has two dusty rooms, the air inside not as hot as the outside. The position under the boulders and in the shade of the other rocks around is the reason for the temperature difference.</p> <p>And here we lost the path. There should be a way to make a full circle, but we just could not find it. Instead of continuing to the other caves nearby - Mahalena and Shiwa Thero caves, plus a handful of unnamed ones, we went back to Shamikha cave and then back down to the House with stone bowls in the main archaeological zone.</p> <h3>Back to the car</h3> <p>There were two possible ways down to the parking lot - the one we came up on along the Southern staircase or a slightly longer one, over the Northern staircase, that goes a bit further to the east. The junction is nearby Mihinda's stupa and having enough time, we chose the long way.</p> <p>The longer way down is again in the forest, from the fork it goes a little up the hill, then the descent starts. This path seemed newly built, probably with what was left of the original stones, reinforced with concrete. There wasn't much to see on the way down, except for a small pond, probably man-made, considering its proximity to the monastery complex. Near the pond, the path almost disappeared over some exposed rocks, but following the same general direction, soon we were again on the stairs.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="Rassagala northern staircase" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37532082-a245-4a91-96f4-9fbe448383fb" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_9848.JPG" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9848.JPG.jpg?itok=pSGWHBGM 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9848.JPG.jpg?itok=Mbd5DrZs 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_9848.JPG.jpg?itok=UDWxY01k 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">The Northern staircase has been restored</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>A bit hard on the knees, the path winds down to a second parking lot, smaller than the main one, but all ready for the crowds of tourists visiting Rassagala in the future. Another 5-10 minutes and we were at the main parking and got to our car.</p> <p>All in all, this was an amazing adventure. Started completely unsure of what to expect, Rassagala turned out to be one of the best attractions we visited in Sri Lanka, on par with Mihintale. Very interesting to see the archaeological digs in progress and the many ancient buildings and structures reclaimed from the thick jungle. The lack of crowds, with just a few other enthusiasts except us, made it a very special experience.</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-date-visited.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-date-visited clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-date-visited--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited--post.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--datetime.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-date-visited field--type-datetime field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Date Visited</div> <div class="field--items"> <div class="field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2020-08-02T12:00:00Z">August 2020</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="row bs-2col"> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-destinations.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-destinations clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Destinations</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-destinations--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations--post.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-destinations.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> <ul class="field__items_list"> <li><a href="/destination/asia" hreflang="en">Asia</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sri-lanka" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka</a></li> </ul> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--right"> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-gallery.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-gallery clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Gallery</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-gallery--post--default.html.twig x field--node--field-gallery--post.html.twig * field--node--field-gallery.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-gallery.html.twig * field--image.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--field-gallery--post.html.twig' --> <div class="field field-node--field-gallery field-name-field-gallery field-type-image field-label-hidden has-multiple"><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-1 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9633.JPG.jpg?itok=X8Nxp9zG 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9633.JPG.jpg?itok=Li_CcfaM 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9633.JPG.jpg?itok=1pX9oE9P 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9633.JPG.jpg?itok=X8Nxp9zG" alt="The wall of the pond still has the original stones" title="The wall of the pond still has the original stones" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">The wall of the pond still has the original stones</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-2 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9671.JPG.jpg?itok=XaWm-HBa 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9671.JPG.jpg?itok=RCxLtKrE 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9671.JPG.jpg?itok=Y1VKq_8J 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9671.JPG.jpg?itok=XaWm-HBa" alt="Building with well preserved guardstones, numbers on the bricks were used by archaeologist when restoring it" title="Building with well preserved guardstones, numbers on the bricks were used by archaeologist when restoring it" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Building with well preserved guardstones, numbers on the bricks were used by archaeologist when restoring it</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-3 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9677.JPG.jpg?itok=BmPQLTy1 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9677.JPG.jpg?itok=c77PVxs3 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9677.JPG.jpg?itok=EvzXrPn- 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9677.JPG.jpg?itok=BmPQLTy1" alt="Workers restoring a staircase of a building" title="Workers restoring a staircase of a building" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Workers restoring a staircase of a building</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-4 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9694.JPG.jpg?itok=KEXPexkY 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9694.JPG.jpg?itok=IjtDG01G 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9694.JPG.jpg?itok=H-YBgTcN 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9694.JPG.jpg?itok=KEXPexkY" alt="Small stone element" title="Small stone element" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Small stone element</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-5 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9695.JPG.jpg?itok=FOKZu7ox 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9695.JPG.jpg?itok=5gtV2Ct0 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9695.JPG.jpg?itok=3lal3mIP 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9695.JPG.jpg?itok=FOKZu7ox" alt="Staircase with balustrades and large stones still in the position they were found" title="Staircase with balustrades and large stones still in the position they were found" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Staircase with balustrades and large stones still in the position they were found</figcaption> </div> </figure><div class="adsense_gallery"> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script> <!-- po-sveta.com [responsive] --> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-6470203795457618" data-ad-slot="8094012753" data-ad-format="auto"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-6 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9713.JPG.jpg?itok=mQXDRPAQ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9713.JPG.jpg?itok=mRC4SAM3 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9713.JPG.jpg?itok=-svAxBhT 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9713.JPG.jpg?itok=mQXDRPAQ" alt="Long wide staircase in the middle of the site, starts at the pond and goes up to Zone 2" title="Long wide staircase in the middle of the site, starts at the pond and goes up to Zone 2" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Long wide staircase in the middle of the site, starts at the pond and goes up to Zone 2</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-7 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9774.JPG.jpg?itok=xFdlQqKR 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9774.JPG.jpg?itok=4VBhbF6f 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9774.JPG.jpg?itok=NxW2QNf_ 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9774.JPG.jpg?itok=xFdlQqKR" alt="Huge stone altar" title="Huge stone altar" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Huge stone altar</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-8 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9791.JPG.jpg?itok=wb7s__cg 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9791.JPG.jpg?itok=sd0npSPK 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9791.JPG.jpg?itok=9VUPCHzN 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9791.JPG.jpg?itok=wb7s__cg" alt="Huge stone parasol, fallen from one of the stupas" title="Huge stone parasol, fallen from one of the stupas" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">Huge stone parasol, fallen from one of the stupas</figcaption> </div> </figure><figure class="field-type-image__figure image-count-9 caption caption-img" role="group"> <div class="field-type-image__item"> <span class="caption-span"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9838.JPG.jpg?itok=1vMmGeEK 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9838.JPG.jpg?itok=jkvnatFz 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9838.JPG.jpg?itok=qiKKIuNM 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_9838.JPG.jpg?itok=1vMmGeEK" alt="The path around the drip-ledge caves zone is narrow at places" title="The path around the drip-ledge caves zone is narrow at places" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </span> <figcaption class="field-type-image__figcaption figure-caption" property="schema:description">The path around the drip-ledge caves zone is narrow at places</figcaption> </div> </figure></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--field-gallery--post.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--comment.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostcomment clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Comments</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--comment--post--default.html.twig * field--node--comment--post.html.twig * field--node--comment.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--block-content--33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0.html.twig * block--block-content.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-block-content block-block-content33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0 clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--block-content--body--basic.html.twig * field--block-content--body.html.twig * field--block-content--basic.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><div class="loginBtnSocialDiv"> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--facebook"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/facebook">Login with Facebook</a> </button> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--google"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/google">Login with Google</a> </button> </div></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> Fri, 28 Aug 2020 14:29:55 +0000 2hw 113 at https://2hungrywanderers.com https://2hungrywanderers.com/rassagala-rajagala-ancient-monastery-one-future-top-attractions-sri-lanka#comments Mihintale - the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka https://2hungrywanderers.com/mihintale-cradle-buddhism-sri-lanka <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <h1 class="page-header">Mihintale - the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka</h1> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--post.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/1" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">2hw</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--post.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span>Sat, 08/15/2020 - 15:47</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--extra-field-block--node--post--links.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node.html.twig * block--extra-field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-extra-field-blocknodepostlinks clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_4668.JPG.jpg?itok=M_Js0RAd 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_4668.JPG.jpg?itok=6XX2ye8e 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_4668.JPG.jpg?itok=BK1tSLN4 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-08/XXX_4668.JPG.jpg?itok=M_Js0RAd" alt="Mihintale - the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--body.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostbody clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--post--default.html.twig * field--node--body--post.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>The story of Buddhism in Sri Lanka begins on the day when King Devanampiya Tissa (307-266 BC) was deer hunting and while chasing a stag he got to the top of a hill. There he met Mahinda, a Buddhist monk from India, who impressed the king so much, that the king himself, his family and court were converted to Buddhism on the spot. Mihintale means "Mahinda's plateau" and the name applies to both the hills and the small town around them, which is situated only 15 km east of Anuradhapura.</p> <p>Considered the birthplace of Buddhism in the country, the area has always been deeply respected, many pagodas, other religious buildings and a monastic complex were built here. Now it is a place of both religious and historical importance, one can spend a long, full day or even better - visit on separate days to have time to explore the many ruins, ancient carvings and still functioning temples, all set amidst beautiful, lush hills.</p> <p>Here we will show you the sights in the order we visited them, but the site is huge and gives plenty of options for exploring. </p> <h2>At the foot of the hill</h2> <p>Approaching the main cluster of structures to see, this is a stop that can give you a chance to relax and start with a less impressive, but still nice group of buildings.</p> <h3>Indikatu Seya</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="930ceb36-e3e8-417b-b872-492884ece94b" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5337%20-%20Indicatu%20Seya%20%282%29.jpg?itok=EsbIfe64 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5337%20-%20Indicatu%20Seya%20%282%29.jpg?itok=NvoJBfiM 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5337%20-%20Indicatu%20Seya%20%282%29.jpg?itok=pRl0QFPG 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_5337%20-%20Indicatu%20Seya%20%282%29.jpg" alt="Indikatu Seya" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>This is a whole monastic complex with several stupas, smaller buildings and a well-restored pool. It is more popular among the locals than tourists, so it is a very nice place to observe the worshipers in a less formal setting. One of the stupas is carrying the same name, which can be translated as "needle" and according to legend, the dagoba enshrines the needles used to sew monks robes.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfddcae2-a6ac-4114-ae79-d9525d8c8457" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5337%20-%20Indicatu%20Seya%20%288%29.jpg?itok=tXzsq-K- 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5337%20-%20Indicatu%20Seya%20%288%29.jpg?itok=wVsK7HhI 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5337%20-%20Indicatu%20Seya%20%288%29.jpg?itok=QVXXuuuD 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_5337%20-%20Indicatu%20Seya%20%288%29.jpg" alt="Indikatu Seya" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>From an architectural point of view, the complex will not make you gasp in astonishment, but the notable features are the excellent water carrying systems and the five small shrines in a specific layout. Four mark the corners of a square and the fifth is in the centre, same as the 5 on a die. This pattern was popular in ancient times, but many old complexes got extended or partially damaged, destroying the original plan. Nearby, another example of this architectural layout can be found - the Mani Naga Mandira, a little down the road from the museum.</p> <h3>Vejja Sala - The Ancient Hospital</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93e38fd3-8ca0-49f7-99f0-cca45fbab5b8" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5318%20-%20Ancient%20Hospital%20%283%29.JPG.jpg?itok=6CmD1gq2 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5318%20-%20Ancient%20Hospital%20%283%29.JPG.jpg?itok=rxMdDZcd 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5318%20-%20Ancient%20Hospital%20%283%29.JPG.jpg?itok=FAxAk2LV 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_5318%20-%20Ancient%20Hospital%20%283%29.JPG" alt="granite bath" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Before going up the mountain one can see the remains of a hospital, built in the 8th century which is a fine example of the well-developed health care from those times. The large size and complicated layout of the structure imply that separate departments existed, specializing in different types of illnesses. A curious object attracts the visitors' attention - a granite bath, shaped as a human body, used for soaking sick people in herb-infused oils and remedial juices. Surgical tools dated to the 12th century have also been found there. This hospital shows just one aspect of the efforts towards general well being in this prosperous area - historic documents mention specialized homes for blind and crippled people, even sick animals were taken care of by specialists. </p> <h3>Take the steps (or don't...)</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="304b4ec6-9bf8-421c-bd8e-589d062862a5" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4618.JPG.jpg?itok=FxEUvu3M 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4618.JPG.jpg?itok=Pm-lpjHZ 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4618.JPG.jpg?itok=63rK_k0B 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_4618.JPG" alt="Mihintale staircase" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>There are two options for heading up the hill, the first one is the more popular but may exhaust some of your energy too early. The huge staircase begins a bit after the museum and will get you to the first plateau. The seemingly endless steps are a must for the pilgrims but can be avoided by driving south on Kandy Rd and then east on Old Rd to the car park near the ticket counters.</p> <p>That's what we did and were met by several surprised guards and staff members - we were the first tourists to visit the site in months due to the COVID-19 lockdown. Since March they hadn't seen any foreigners and in mid-June, with airports closed, they were not expecting any. After buying tickets and getting a quick overview of the path in front of us by the helpful staff, we continued to the next place of interest.</p> <h3>First plateau and up the hill</h3> <p>On your way to the top of the hill, where the most sacred buildings are located, you walk up a wide path with numerous stops and detours along.</p> <h3>Kantaka Chetiya</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f31330ca-f315-432e-86c0-986b6490cf72" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/cp.jpg?itok=pjguBV30 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/cp.jpg?itok=cuqlj3Af 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/cp.jpg?itok=7EAQ9Hmc 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/cp.jpg" alt="Kantaka Chetiya" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The best thing about this well preserved old stupa is its decorative elements. Partially collapsed, robbed by treasure hunters and buried for ages, now the stupa is revealed to the world. The dome has four rectangular extensions adorned with frizes and pillars that will keep you looking at them for a while. All kinds of mythical creatures, people, dwarfs, animals and flowers remain there - crafted more than 2000 years ago, some are still in excellent form.</p> <p>Several drip-ledge caves can be found next to the stupa, some of them have Brahmi inscriptions indicating that the caves were used by monks as living quarters and meditation spots.</p> <h3>Sinha Pokuna - Lion Fountain</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="440a42a5-9bcc-4c11-b673-d6f931d31982" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/l.jpg?itok=CS1Er9jO 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/l.jpg?itok=TPxa6RtY 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/l.jpg?itok=txjqdtey 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/l.jpg" alt="Sinha Pokuna - Lion Fountain" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Amidst the ruins of some smaller buildings, the remains of what is believed to have been an open-air bath for the monks can be found. The small water tank on top of the structure was filled with water and using a spout the water was released on the side through the mouth of a life-sized, stone-carved lion. Today the lion remains as mostly a silhouette but considering some details remaining, it was probably a very intricate statue.</p> <p>The frieze is better preserved and bas-reliefs depicting lions, elephants and gnomes can still be seen. Many of those elements are typical for Indian temples, reminding us of the cultural connections between the nations.</p> <h3>Alms hall</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="af1d3c6a-8ccf-4b8e-9207-7c875c661ffc" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4594.JPG.jpg?itok=qpfsN1rw 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4594.JPG.jpg?itok=vhBzeCOd 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4594.JPG.jpg?itok=Bkn75U5B 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_4594.JPG" alt="Alms hall" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The physical remains of the monastery's dining hall are impressive - part of the area was once covered, while the main section was open air. There is a very well preserved large stone trough, also called "rice boat" - a canoe-shaped container used for storing rice that is about 10 meters long. A second, smaller trough, a "gruel boat" was used for keeping the rice porridge.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d223f3a8-2fc3-4e09-8153-9aa32859934c" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4599.jpg?itok=yoxkcLHg 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4599.jpg?itok=vYBIORRn 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4599.jpg?itok=iZgOOgGm 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_4599.jpg" alt="rice boat" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The attached kitchen had running water provided by pipes from Naga Pokuna pond uphill as well as a drainage system. To make the place even more interesting, the stone inscriptions (next point) tell us that there were 12 cooks, a warden and several people responsible just for the firewood working at the kitchen.</p> <h3>Slab inscriptions of Mahinda IV</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bfc9034-2c1f-400b-8fb2-b0a1479d119e" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4607.JPG.jpg?itok=AwEvWRSA 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4607.JPG.jpg?itok=Yk8f-HCI 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4607.JPG.jpg?itok=yF19zWDb 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_4607.JPG" alt="Slab inscriptions of Mahinda IV" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Following the path, we got to the two engraved stones that are guaranteed to capture any visitor's attention. Erected in the 10th century by King Mahinda IV (956-972), a successful ruler, they contain information highly valued by scholars today. The carved symbols give rich details about the administration of the monastery, rules and regulations for the monks, salaries for the employees and historical information regarding the buildings. Here are some of the translated writings:</p> <blockquote> <p>The monks shall rise early morning, meditate, cleanse the teeth, and shall put on robes as described in the 'Sikha Karani'</p> </blockquote> <p>It is believed that this is the oldest evidence of requiring businesses to keep records of their financial transactions. The detailed king's orders include specifics like keeping monthly expenditure records and preparing annual profit and loss balance sheets.</p> <blockquote> <p>Every month accounts shall be prepared and made public.</p> </blockquote> <h3>Naga Pokuna - Snake Pond</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="770e6817-8c0f-49fe-813d-9108ed627e21" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/nagap.jpg?itok=2eHpgjuI 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/nagap.jpg?itok=MUOlPDV0 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/nagap.jpg?itok=pCpvmAJ_ 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/nagap.jpg" alt="Naga Pokuna - Snake Pond" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Going up the hill and following a short path to the right you will get to a small water reservoir, adorned with a single rock carving. This was once a small natural pond, which was extended as the main water source for the monastic complex. Extensive pipe system started here and provided clean water to many buildings and pools. The carving that gave the name of the pool can still be seen - a naga, mythical creature with multiple snake heads, it is said the body reaches the bottom of the pond.</p> <p>Following the path from the pond, one can reach a boulder formation called "Mahinda's Cave", which is believed to have been the monk's place to meditate and sleep.</p> <h2>Mango-tree plateau - the hearth of Mihintale</h2> <p>The word "Ambasthala" can be translated as "mango-tree place" or "mango-tree plateau" which is the name of the plateau as well as the central stupa. Several stupas and other Buddhist sites with huge religious significance are located there. There are beautiful views in all directions and yes, there are mango trees as well and you can see plenty of monkeys enjoying the fruits.</p> <h3>Ambasthala Dagoba</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="af4a3c9e-3806-4b3b-b875-2aae2bcc95cd" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4658.JPG.jpg?itok=NLRFRkt0 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4658.JPG.jpg?itok=abJcoAYk 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4658.JPG.jpg?itok=oS9UgkX4 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_4658.JPG" alt="Ambasthala Dagoba" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>It is the holiest structure in the whole place for many reasons. First, it is believed that Buddha himself visited the spot, one of only ten on the island. Second, it is the burial place of the monk Mahinda, who brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka. Third, this is where a very important conversation happened. Mahinda wanted to test the king's wits and he did so by having a conversation with him at this spot. He actually gave the king a test, based on a what is now a high-school math topic - operations on sets. If you want to test yourself, here is the ancient text translated by Wilhelm Geiger and published in "Canadian Journal of Buddhist Studies", Number Five, 2009:</p> <blockquote> <p>- What name does this tree bear, O king?<br /> - This tree is called a mango tree.<br /> - Is there yet another mango tree beside this?<br /> - There are many mango trees.<br /> - Are there yet other trees beside this mango and the other mangoes?<br /> - There are many trees, sir; but those are trees that are not mango.<br /> - And are there, beside these mangoes and those trees that are not mangoes, yet other trees?<br /> - There is this mango tree, sir.</p> </blockquote> <p>Impressed by the king's wisdom, the Indian monk decided he is worthy and began preaching Buddhism to him and his kingdom.</p> <h3>Aradhana Gala - Invitation Rock</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23fd08d7-e378-4ca7-8cff-786dc7e95d86" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4737.JPG.jpg?itok=B2b-N059 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4737.JPG.jpg?itok=lB_gHah6 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4737.JPG.jpg?itok=Kl6JWlEH 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_4737.JPG" alt="Aradhana Gala - Invitation Rock" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The most distinctive place is hands down the giant boulder towering over everything else for miles in every direction. According to the legend, the monk Mahinda was standing at the top of the rock when he introduced himself to the king and called him by name. King Tissa accepted the invitation for conversation and thus the name was given to the rock.</p> <p>Climbing to the top is easier than expected and the views from the windswept platform are amazing. Usually, the place is crowded by worshipers, but we got a solid 10 minutes alone time there to enjoy it and take photos in every direction. In addition to the nearby hills, lakes and large patches of jungle, the high rock is the best place to observe the next three major spots nearby.</p> <h3>Large sitting Buddha statue</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5c7e2ea-0495-4cbd-a3a5-a9d887668eb4" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4696.JPG.jpg?itok=AgiOsIHa 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4696.JPG.jpg?itok=8hJ9SCuy 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4696.JPG.jpg?itok=X1Rm0qaQ 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_4696.JPG" alt="Large sitting Buddha statue" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>The bright white statue is a modern addition to the sacred hill.</p> <h3>Maha Seya (Mahaseya)</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a4355623-bc54-41a9-a281-509130ebda26" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4578.JPG.jpg?itok=YJyXFKPE 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4578.JPG.jpg?itok=q01FeWgK 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4578.JPG.jpg?itok=2xDmlyqs 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_4578.JPG" alt="Maha Seya (Mahaseya)" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>This 2000-year-old stupa was in very bad shape and had to be completely restored in the late 19th century. The white dome is larger than the original and it is said that inside the monument is stored a hair of Buddha.</p> <h3>Mihindu Seya</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ef595e1e-26de-4556-ab6f-9481a3270eb3" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4730.JPG.jpg?itok=Tyu6w312 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4730.JPG.jpg?itok=SyhtUumg 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_4730.JPG.jpg?itok=YxFnhIVP 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_4730.JPG" alt="Mihindu Seya" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>This ancient stupa remains in a state close to it's original, showing us what the dagobas looked like centuries ago. The name translates as "Mahinda's stupa" and is considered to be the burial place for the monk's ashes and some of his belongings. This theory is strongly supported by the fact that archeologists examined the relic chamber and found containers with ashes and bone fragments, as well as some beads.</p> <h2>Outside of the main complex</h2> <p>If the journey up and down the hill has left you with enough energy and time there is more to explore nearby. If you have more time in the area we recommend doing what we did - come back another day to enjoy the side attractions in Mihintale.</p> <h3>Kaludiya Pokuna - Dark Water Pond</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eafd1ed1-4075-419c-8601-87c7436ca21c" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5355%20-%20Kaludiya%20Pond%20%2811%29.JPG.jpg?itok=VKrxLPgY 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5355%20-%20Kaludiya%20Pond%20%2811%29.JPG.jpg?itok=Hm-Yi3QK 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5355%20-%20Kaludiya%20Pond%20%2811%29.JPG.jpg?itok=KaHUXetE 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_5355%20-%20Kaludiya%20Pond%20%2811%29.JPG" alt="Kaludiya Pokuna - Dark Water Pond" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Just a kilometer from the car park near the Lion Fountain lies the largest pond in Mihintale. It is suspected that the ancient water reservoir had both decorative and practical functions, providing a beautiful setting for the monastery around it and also supplying water to a number of buildings. The former monastic complex now offers a beautiful, quiet place for a walk among some ruins.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aecebb56-d372-43b3-a765-8ee1c1b72d20" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5355%20-%20Kaludiya%20Pond%20%2812%29.JPG.jpg?itok=QgDw7XkJ 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5355%20-%20Kaludiya%20Pond%20%2812%29.JPG.jpg?itok=aTJv5vD1 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5355%20-%20Kaludiya%20Pond%20%2812%29.JPG.jpg?itok=hwQLeWWz 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_5355%20-%20Kaludiya%20Pond%20%2812%29.JPG" alt="bathing house" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>When exploring the park one can find a bathing house, cleverly built under a boulder, utilizing the space underneath it and extending it with rock walls.</p> <p> </p> <h3>Rajagiri Lena - Rajagiri Cave</h3> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dd5c2409-3ec4-4de1-9595-5b884678a23b" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5369%20-%20Rajagiri%20Cave%20%289%29.JPG.jpg?itok=03d1PA0i 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5369%20-%20Rajagiri%20Cave%20%289%29.JPG.jpg?itok=ASCYjdg1 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5369%20-%20Rajagiri%20Cave%20%289%29.JPG.jpg?itok=ADpdDiak 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_5369%20-%20Rajagiri%20Cave%20%289%29.JPG" alt="Rajagiri Lena - Rajagiri Cave" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Taking a 5-minute walk from Kaludiya Pokuna's car park will take you to one of the least visited places in Mihintale. The complex of drip-ledge caves has been used by Buddhist monks for a very long time, indicated by the ancient versions of some of the discovered Brahmi inscriptions. Remains considered to be of an old image house have been discovered, as well as a developed water carrying system (canals).</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="68bba63f-be99-4c95-a480-431767c0bfbd" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5369%20-%20Rajagiri%20Cave%20%284%29.JPG.jpg?itok=4FkRXJNs 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5369%20-%20Rajagiri%20Cave%20%284%29.JPG.jpg?itok=a8DZnXjJ 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/XXX_5369%20-%20Rajagiri%20Cave%20%284%29.JPG.jpg?itok=mSM9O9Rl 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/XXX_5369%20-%20Rajagiri%20Cave%20%284%29.JPG" alt="Rajagiri Lena - Rajagiri Cave" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Plenty of boulders with carved steps, gutters, round and rectangular holes are scattered in the area. The purpose of most has not yet been precisely identified, but regardless they are a serious proof of the size and complexity of the cave group.</p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-date-visited.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-date-visited clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-date-visited--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited--post.html.twig * field--node--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-date-visited.html.twig * field--datetime.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-date-visited field--type-datetime field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Date Visited</div> <div class="field--items"> <div class="field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2020-06-12T12:00:00Z">June 2020</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </div> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="row bs-2col"> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-destinations.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-destinations clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Destinations</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-destinations--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations--post.html.twig * field--node--field-destinations.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-destinations.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> <ul class="field__items_list"> <li><a href="/destination/asia" hreflang="en">Asia</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/sri-lanka" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka</a></li> <li><a href="/destination/anuradhapura" hreflang="en">Anuradhapura</a></li> </ul> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--field_destinations.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--right"> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--comment.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostcomment clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Comments</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--comment--post--default.html.twig * field--node--comment--post.html.twig * field--node--comment.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--block-content--33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0.html.twig * block--block-content.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-block-content block-block-content33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0 clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--block-content--body--basic.html.twig * field--block-content--body.html.twig * field--block-content--basic.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><div class="loginBtnSocialDiv"> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--facebook"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/facebook">Login with Facebook</a> </button> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--google"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/google">Login with Google</a> </button> </div></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> Sat, 15 Aug 2020 12:47:19 +0000 2hw 108 at https://2hungrywanderers.com How Sri Lanka won against COVID-19 and how we spent 2 months under total lockdown in Colombo https://2hungrywanderers.com/how-sri-lanka-won-against-covid-19-and-how-we-spent-2-months-under-total-lockdown-colombo <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x field--node--title--post.html.twig * field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <h1 class="page-header">How Sri Lanka won against COVID-19 and how we spent 2 months under total lockdown in Colombo</h1> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/field--node--title--post.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--post.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/1" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">2hw</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--post.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span>Tue, 05/26/2020 - 17:19</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--extra-field-block--node--post--links.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--extra-field-block--node.html.twig * block--extra-field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-extra-field-blocknodepostlinks clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-image.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-image clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-image--post--default.html.twig * field--node--field-image--post.html.twig * field--node--field-image.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--field-image.html.twig * field--image.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image_formatter' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-05/2020-05-22%2018.27.56.jpg?itok=oucwBH4O 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/2020-05/2020-05-22%2018.27.56.jpg?itok=ZUqz-Dq1 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/2020-05/2020-05-22%2018.27.56.jpg?itok=oE5G7nnk 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/2020-05/2020-05-22%2018.27.56.jpg?itok=oucwBH4O" alt="How Sri Lanka won against COVID-19 and how we spent 2 months under total lock-down in Colombo" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image-formatter.html.twig' --> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--body.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostbody clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--post--default.html.twig * field--node--body--post.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Sri Lanka fought and won the battle against the COVID-19, by implementing strict measures and full lockdown of the country. This is post is about the key struggles the island nation faced during that time and how we saw the situation unfold, from our rented apartment in the capital Colombo - our thoughts, fears and hopes during the two months we were stuck inside.</p> <h2>Intro</h2> <p>We landed in Sri Lanka on 12 March 2020 and we planned to spend almost two months here before flying to Thailand on 2 May. These were the only fixed dates we had, the start and the end of our time here, the rest was still to be decided. As we had plenty of time to explore the country we wanted to stay in Colombo for the first few weeks, do some touristy things occasionally, but mostly relax and take it easy. Then go on a tour around the country and back to the capital, a week or so before our flight out. Sounds good, doesn't it? As you already know, things went a bit sideways...</p> <p>Considering that we were going to spend several weeks here, we chose a nice apartment for our stay. Centrally located, a stone throw from the ocean and within walking distance from some of the attractions. The amenities included AC, small kitchen, water filter, washing machine, a comfortable bed, a balcony and regular housekeeping. Our host, we will call him Mr F here, seemed nice, very responsive and helpful, even before we arrived. We were really lucky with our choice, little did we know at the time, we were going to spend several months stuck inside, instead of the planned couple of weeks.</p> <h2>Before the lockdown</h2> <h3>10 March: First local coronavirus case</h3> <p>The first confirmed case of a Sri Lankan national infected with COVID-19 was detected. The 52-year-old tour guide most likely was exposed to the virus while working with a group of Italian tourists. For reference, the first case in the country was registered months ago - on 27 January a 44 year old Chinese national was admitted to the National Institute of Infection Diseases after airport screening detected she had a fever. The patient fully recovered and was released from the hospital on 19 February.</p> <h3>12 March: Landing in Colombo</h3> <p>We arrived in Sri Lanka. There was a lot of talk about the virus, and many people wore masks at the airport, but nothing suggested that in a few days the world would change drastically. At the Colombo airport, they had introduced a temperature check for all arriving passengers, as well as several new forms about current health state and previously visited countries. We had to wait on two different queues before Immigration.</p> <h3>16 March: Initial protective mesaures </h3> <p>The first round of measures against the pandemic was mild and presented as just a minor inconvenience for us - Sri Lanka declared a "work from home week". All non-essential services were ordered to stop operations, government agencies, malls, museums, temples and so on were closed. At that time it just sounded like a week without sightseeing, not a problem.</p> <p>Interesting fact, even before COVID-19 grew into a pandemic, in February, the Sri Lankan government set maximum price on disposable face masks.</p> <h3>17 March: Credit relief</h3> <p>In one swift move, the president shifted the burden from businesses affected by the coronavirus to the financial institutions by ordering "that debt should not be collected for six months and working capital to be provided at 4 percent interest”.</p> <h3>Day 0 (19 March): It is about to start, we did not see it coming</h3> <p>While walking back to our room in the evening, we stopped by at a supermarket to get some soda and there we encountered a very strange situation. Small crowds, literally tens of men buying alcohol - some just a couple of beers, some grabbing baskets full of liquor. All the checkout lines were just men with bottles. Along the way, it was the same thing happening in several other shops. Knowing very little about the people here we chalked it up to cultural differences, maybe it was a payday or a normal thing before a weekend. Wish we knew the true reason, a total ban on alcohol sales after midnight, one of the many steps Sri Lankan government took to control the developing COVID-19 situation.</p> <p>The Bandaranaike International Airport was closed today, initially for a week, later the period got extended multiple times. Only passenger arrival flights are affected by the order. Cargo, humanitarian, emergency and other special flights were allowed to continue, so were passenger departures.</p> <h2>The early days - full of hope</h2> <h3>Day 1 (20 March): It's gonna be just 3 days...</h3> <p>Our friendly host Mr F, at the guesthouse we were staying at, let us know that there would be a curfew starting at 6 pm today for a period of 3 days - until Monday 23rd. It would mean that everything would be closed, and people are not allowed to go out without a good reason and written permission from the police. No taxis, no supermarkets, no restaurants, no pharmacies. What Sri Lanka called "curfew" was, in fact, a complete and total lockdown. He suggested we stock up on food and anything we might need for a few days. </p> <p>The news did not seem too concerning. So far, it had been a few days of "work from home", extending it with a few more days of stricter measures made sense. It would mean a change of plans for us, but staying inside for a while did not bother us much.</p> <p>We went to the supermarket in the evening and there were just a few more people than usual - we stocked up on biscuits, eggs, milk and some noodles. Our life is travel and we were expecting to be able to continue our trip through Sri Lanka soon, so getting too much extra food didn't make sense. Just to be on the safe side, we got enough to last us 4-5 days, but not more.</p> <p>On the way back a young man yelled at us "Corona! Corona!" from a passing tuk-tuk. At that time many foreign tourist were experiencing similar behaviour from the locals. It wasn't in any way worrisome, but still unpleasant.</p> <h3>Day 2 (21 March): This thing is more serious than expected, can we go to Thailand?</h3> <p>The curfew got extended with an extra day - no worries, we thought, one more day is not that much, we can stay inside a little more. We were still envisioning a week or, at most, two of lockdown, but things were changing by the hour, not only in Sri Lanka but in every part of the world and it was time to start rethinking the original travel plan.</p> <p>We began to ponder whether it hadn't been wiser to stay in Thailand when we had a chance. Why Thailand? Well, we had been there many times, we knew the country a lot better and their healthcare system is better than Sri Lanka, which would be important in case of an outbreak. We felt it would have been a better place to get stuck in. Our original flight there at the end of the Sri Lanka adventure was to be on 2 May, but it got cancelled. We decided to try and get to Thailand earlier and booked a flight at the start of April.</p> <p>While waiting for this flight, things changed in Thailand too. They introduced a new policy and all visitors needed a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country, plus an appropriate insurance policy. Luckily, we extended ours just before the pandemic was announced - so no problem there. The virus test proved a bit of an issue, however. We tried calling hospitals to check if we can get tested, then our host got involved and he made some calls on our behalf, but we were out of luck - no testing unless there were symptoms. We contacted the Thai Embassy in Colombo, but they were not able to help us either. Well, in the end, it was resolved unexpectedly - the flight got cancelled, and it became clear we would be staying in Sri Lanka for the time being.</p> <p>It was an uncertain time for all tourists and travellers - whether to go home or stay in place, flights cancelled left and right, countries were urging their citizens to go home as quickly as possible. You would book a flight, it would be cancelled and the next one would be more expensive, but it would be cancelled too. People were complaining on the Internet, trying frantically to get to their final destinations.</p> <p>It was uncertain for us too - we had two flights cancelled already and to top it off Australia was closing its borders. Should we go home? We spent many hours trying to decide what would be the best course of action and whether we needed to go back or not. Eventually, we decided to stay here and wait it out.</p> <h3>Day 4 (23 March): Got some food!</h3> <p>No shops were open that day, but Mr F was going to order groceries over the phone and offered to get us some. In our minds, we were going to stay in for maybe another week, we even wondered if it is worth getting the extra food, but took him up on his offer and got some eggs, sausages and crackers that turned out to be everything we had for several days afterwards.</p> <p>Facebook is not a great place to find useful information, but the three or four groups for travellers in Sri Lanka we had joined to get inspired about our trip proved to be helpful in those times. This is where we learned that we are required to register with the local police - the government wanted to monitor all foreigners in the country. The process was quick and painless - one email with our information and one phone call and we were set. </p> <h3>Day 5 (24 March): Last 8 hours of freedom</h3> <p>Today the curfew was lifted for 8 hours starting at 6 am, so people have a chance to buy food. At the moment the expectations were that this would happen several times a week. The next curfew lift was scheduled just three days ahead - on Friday 26th.</p> <p>Mr F brought us the essentials we had ordered with him the previous day, so we didn't have to wait in line. We decided to go out anyway to see if we can get some more stuff from the supermarket and check the situation outside. Went out around noon, expecting the lines to have dwindled already and with more than two hours until the curfew we thought our chances were pretty good. Foolishly optimistic thinking! The line in front of the supermarket was about 100 people, stretching several blocks thanks to the space people were keeping between each other. Everybody was wearing masks, or something on their face - like a scarf, a man had two handkerchiefs tied together. The army was keeping things in order - just walking around, machine guns in hands - nobody had to speak, everybody understood what is expected.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="pharmacy in Colombo before the lockdown" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e13741b0-98cb-4c43-9a20-91f3c15f81bd" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/2020-03-24%2010.58.01.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-03-24%2010.58.01.jpg?itok=9513QI3P 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-03-24%2010.58.01.jpg?itok=aem3OZzJ 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-03-24%2010.58.01.jpg?itok=TJQ9I3wP 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">People queueing in front of a pharmacy</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>We waited for about 10 minutes in line and after some rough calculations, it was obvious that less than a quarter of the people waiting have a chance to enter the store before it closes and everybody has to go home. We left the line and walked past several smaller shops and restaurants, all of which were closed and as a final stop decided to try the McDonalds nearby. It looked promising before getting there - no people queueing outside and lights on inside. At the door, we were greeted by an employee, who told us that only the drive-through is open. Heading home we realised that what looked like a mid-sized traffic jam was actually the line of cars waiting to get burgers and fries.</p> <h3>Day 6 (25 March): "Foreigners go home!"</h3> <p>In those early days, there was a lot of uncertainty. Some tourists complained on Facebook that they were being kicked out of their hotels for being foreigners. There were more negative attitudes towards tourist who were seen as bringing the virus into the country.</p> <p>We didn't expect our host to kick us out, he even assured us he is willing to keep us as guests. But we were in the country for less than fourteen days and the thought of people like us being shipped to quarantine centres did cross our minds. We made sure all our devices and power banks were fully charged at all times. Just in case.</p> <h3>Day 7 (26 March): Food worries</h3> <p>Lockdown was supposed to be relaxed for a few hours tomorrow, when we would have been able to go out and buy some provisions. Unexpectedly, today it was announced that no curfew lift is going to happen as it was pushed till the week after. Later on, this one was gonna be changed again and eventually the restrictions stayed in place for a little over two months.</p> <p>We stayed positive throughout the whole time, but looking back now, those few days at the start of the lockdown the situation was quite uncertain and food was a bit of an issue. We did have supplies, but only for a short time and even though the local news said there are supermarkets delivering, we had no luck there - websites were overloaded, placing an order was not possible. We started rationing what we had, dubious how long it was going to be until we were able to get groceries. Our host offered us home-cooked rice and curry, we really appreciated his kindness and it was good to have the security of knowing that at least, we were not going to go hungry.</p> <h2>The long pause</h2> <h3>Day 8 (27 March): Supermarket troubles</h3> <p>We got woken up by a call early morning - Mr F had managed to get through on one of the online shopping stores and asked us what we needed. Even at that time of the lockdown, we did not want to order too much - after all this could not continue for much longer, couldn't it? We opted for some eggs, sausages, crackers and a bag of onions - the only available vegetable. The choice was extremely limited and to prevent people from hoarding maximums were set on product quantities, so even if we wanted we couldn't order more than a few days worth of food.</p> <p>To understand the full extent of the situation with online shopping here, you should know that for regular supermarkets it was nonexistent before the virus hit. There were online stores, but smaller, and more specialized - electronics, cosmetics, organic food, places getting smaller traffic volumes and easily manageable by a few people or even a single person.</p> <p>Putting up a fully functional online store for a major supermarket usually takes months of planning, development, testing. Once the lockdown was in place though, the pressure was put on the big supermarket chains to come up with something usable. The government permitted just a small number of companies to sell and deliver food, but the question of how to manage this was not a simple one.</p> <p>Grocery providers struggled a lot at the beginning. Whatever websites were working, got overloaded quickly, not made for the kind of traffic a whole country is generating while trying to access them. Alternative systems were implemented - food orders were accepted via phone or email, through Facebook and Whatsapp messages where people submitted grocery lists or in some cases spreadsheets with product codes. Those apps are not made for this kind of purpose, so I imagine it must have been quite hard to manage queues of thousands of Whatsapp messages, probably manually entering the information in internal systems and then trying to fulfil successful deliveries. As can be expected, in the end, you would get whatever was available, rather than exactly what you have chosen.</p> <p>Another issue for the supermarket chains was that many of their workers were stuck in their home towns and villages where they had gone in the initial days of the curfew. Not only did they have to deal with the whole "how to make online purchasing and deliveries" question, but their staff was reduced. To supplement their workforce the government allocated military personnel and even volunteers helped with packaging and deliveries. One of our orders was delivered by a young family in what was obviously their personal car - a middle class, almost new, sedan which could not have been further from a supermarket delivery vehicle.</p> <p>Instead of offering their full inventory, some implemented a system of essential packs. They would sell bundles of food staples - for example, 2 kg rice + 1 kg dhal (lentils) + 1 can fish for a set price or a pack of several types of fruits and vegetables. There would be several bundles like that available, just different quantities - a lot less effort involved in packing and ordering.</p> <p>Despite the unusual and unexpected situation the country was put in, it was impressive how online shopping was developed from the ground up in about a month. By the middle of the curfew period, there were several working, if basic and sluggish, online stores, that were completing orders with varying delays and accuracy.</p> <h3>Day 9 (28 March): Chart of infected and relations</h3> <p>To give you an idea of how seriously Sri Lanka was taking this problem just take a look at this small part of a document.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8bcac015-1619-43d1-a13d-392af40b5b8e" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/chart.jpg?itok=pGzaGrBX 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/chart.jpg?itok=r6aNZCeb 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/chart.jpg?itok=gsqxzNYl 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/chart.jpg" alt="Exposure History of Covid-19 diagnosed cases of Sri Lanka as on 27/03/2020" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>This is a chart called "Exposure History of Covid-19 diagnosed cases of Sri Lanka as on 27/03/2020" and is published by the Epidemiology Unit at the Ministry of Health &amp; Indigenous Medical Services. The first column shows the exposure nature for this patient, the second is the gender and case number and the last indicates the number of close contacts this person had while contagious. The most interesting bit is the lines in the second column, indicating known connections between infected people.</p> <p>Keep in mind this chart is only the publicly available information. I think it is fair to assume the epidemiology unit has more data, meticulously collected by immigration, police, army, medical facilities and special task forces, all used to control the rapidly developing situation. A great effort, which many countries can only wish were able to do.</p> <p>First registered COVID-19 death in Sri Lanka.</p> <h3>Day 10 (29 March): The menu is: rice, fish</h3> <p>To be able to operate, a restaurant had to have special permission and implement a safe system for preparing and delivering the food, no dine-in patrons allowed, of course. Because of that, at this point of the curfew, there were almost none open. Today Mr F supplied us with the phone numbers of three restaurants doing deliveries - a burger place, Dominos and KFC, not much, but it was something.</p> <p>Before the lockdown, there were two major apps for ordering food - UberEats and PickMe. They are quite similar - both give you the option to choose from a list of local restaurants and order from one of their varied menus. The choice for most Colombo areas was between tens, if not hundreds, of places - fast food, bakeries, pizza, local cuisine, Chinese and many more.</p> <p>With the start of the curfew, both apps had completely stopped their service, sombre messages about the lockdown showing instead. Today, however, PickMe got the green light to resume operation. Yay! The list of "restaurants" had shrunken to measly two - first option was LitroGas - supplier of cooking gas, the second - a small supermarket. The app is not built to be used as a supermarket store, the inventory of such cannot be properly entered or shown to the user, and to go around this the choice was limited to 3 basic packs of food - each containing rice, lentils, canned fish, in small, medium and big sizes.</p> <p>Even with the admittedly short list of grocery options, PickMe was a lot better than the not so reliable at the time online supermarkets. Every order we placed with it came through within 4 hours, and we were stocked with rice and lentils for days and did not have to worry about food.</p> <h3>Day 11 (30 March): Shocking bill</h3> <p>Mr F messaged us in the morning asking to meet us urgently. He had received his electricity bill and it was shockingly higher than expected. He showed us bills from previous months and it was obvious that we, staying inside 24/7 with the aircon on, were consuming more electricity than usual. His budgeting plans were not working in this situation and after discussing it we agreed for him to give us the basic rate for the room and us to pay the electricity usage on top of that. Eventually, it turned out to be several more dollars per day, but the interesting thing here is the high cost of electricity in Sri Lanka. Pricing is progressive or as Mr F put it "<em>If you use a little bit it is very cheap, but if you use more it is very expensive</em>". If the usage is above the bare minimum price goes to 46 LKR/kWh which is A$0.38 or roughly double what we were paying in Melbourne.</p> <p>Five new coronavirus cases today, a number similar to the previous days, brought the total for the country to 122. Second fatal outcome.</p> <h3>Day 12 (31 March): Big Brother is watching (or calling)</h3> <p>Our host told us something interesting - a police officer from the local station was checking up on us daily. Per protocol, he was supposed to do it twice a day, but sometimes he just called to confirm our status. Although we were registered with the police, this came as a surprise for us. Another sign that the authorities are taking things very seriously, keeping an eye on every tourist in the country cannot be an easy task. We never met this police officer in person, but he called us too several times - very polite and friendly, he let us know to call the station if we had any problems.</p> <p>They were probably most concerned about us exhibiting any symptoms that might be pointing to us having the virus. Especially in the first weeks, there was a lot of uncertainty and fear around the developing situation and we, the foreigners, were seen as the main group who brought COVID-19 to Sri Lanka.</p> <h3>Day 13 (1 April): Fruits! Veggies! Police!</h3> <p>Great news today! A truck was out on the street selling fruits and veggies. About 50 meters from our house, people were gathering around the truck. While walking towards it I saw a police officer coming from the opposite direction. After a moment of hesitation, I decided to push forward, hoping I won't get in trouble for violating the curfew. We reached the truck at the same time, he looked at me and then at the other people for a bit, turned around and left. I don't speak any of the local languages, but it was clear that I was not the only one who felt relieved.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43819c9d-1f1a-4b1c-8908-69351a5328e3" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/collage.jpg?itok=NMwCPq1J 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/collage.jpg?itok=F0_vsCVT 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/collage.jpg?itok=SIRwWE6R 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/collage.jpg" alt="Fruits! Veggies! Police!" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>Technically we were not following the orders and there was news about hundreds of people getting arrested in the city daily for the same. But just a few steps out of the house shouldn't be a problem, right? We were all thinking it, but nobody was certain. The expressions on the other people's faces made me really sad. They were not scared, but worried and nervous, all talking in hushed voices. The police and the army didn't bother us and we all got some fresh bananas, oranges and even eggs!</p> <h3>Day 14 (2 April): Solitary fitness</h3> <p>We have never had our movement so limited for so long, and it didn't look like things would be improving soon. Gaining weight became a concern, I know, first world problem, but something we had to think about. To fight it, we added an hour or so of basic physical exercises like push-ups, squats, stretches. It turned out, exercising is achievable even in confinement.</p> <h3>Day 16 (4 April): Online shopping is not easy</h3> <p>Keels, one of the largest supermarket chain in Sri Lanka, opened their new website for online shopping, which was still in the testing stages. It was set to "open" at 6 am in the morning and would accept only 500 orders, once the quota is fulfilled it got disabled until the next day. The limited number of orders meant waking up before sunrise, accessing the website before it was time for it to start working and hoping to get through before it runs out of available slots. They did raise the quota gradually in the next weeks and we were eventually able to purchase some stuff. But not today. Or the next one.</p> <p>The interesting thing with grocery prices was that even though supply was scarce, prices did not shoot up considerably as is quite often the case in such situations. As soon as the curfew was imposed, to control the market and avoid price gauging, the government implemented maximum retail prices on essential goods. Even if my personal list of essential goods might be different from "rice, lentils, turmeric, canned fish and onion" I think enforcing the ceiling prices on those by the government was a very smart move in a potentially calamitous situation.</p> <p>The possibility of having to visit a pharmacy or a hospital for any reason was daunting, but thankfully we stayed healthy throughout the whole period. Medicines were still available, be it in very few selected pharmacies that remained open during the curfew. Hospitals were open for emergencies, for non-emergencies, a visit had to be organized through a doctor and the police.</p> <h3>Day 20 (8 April): Visa extended</h3> <p>Sri Lanka extended the validity of all visas with another month. No need for anyone to go to the Immigration to fill out forms and wait in line. With the upcoming expiration of our 30 days tourist visas that was good news. At this moment we were still uncertain what fees and when we would be eventually required to pay.</p> <h3>Day 22 (10 April): Good news?</h3> <p>No new COVID-19 cases today, the trend for the last days showed a decrease in new cases. Things are looking up, maybe the curfew restrictions would be relaxed?</p> <h3>Day 23 (11 April): Cremation policy enforced</h3> <p>An update on laws making cremation mandatory for people who have died or are suspected to have died from the coronavirus was announced by the health minister. This measure caused a serious disturbance in the Muslim community as cremation is forbidden by Islam. People have called this an unnecessary violation of their rights as per WHO recommendations bodies can be either burned or buried.</p> <h3>Day 24 (12 April): Sunset</h3> <p>It had been more than three weeks at that time, with only a couple of times going out, a short distance out of the front door to buy stuff from a fruit and veggies truck or to collect deliveries. From the balcony, we could see a narrow portion of the sea a little down the street, visible between the buildings, and that was it.</p> <p>Our cozy apartment was comfortable, but we needed fresh air. After confirming with Mr F that it should not be a problem to go out and walk the 50 meters to the sea, that evening we went on our first walk in weeks. We sat on the shore, feeling the gentle breeze and watched the sunset, such a small thing, but it felt amazing.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <img data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fdcbe4e-cfed-482e-9b62-12d09f481534" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-04-25%2018.30.23.jpg?itok=cl1e9atY 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-04-25%2018.30.23.jpg?itok=jYNWsSpI 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-04-25%2018.30.23.jpg?itok=Y7MiSs5X 1000w" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/2020-04-25%2018.30.23.jpg" alt="sunset in Colombo" typeof="foaf:Image" /><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><p>From that day onwards we would go out around sunset, watch the daylight sink into the ocean and walk 30-40 minutes - up and down the street, again and again, just to get the blood flowing and our daily ration of fresh air.</p> <h3>Day 31 (19 April): The end of the lockdown? No.</h3> <p>Coronavirus cases had been steadily going down up until a few days ago, and the full lockdown was set to be relaxed tomorrow, replaced by a milder overnight curfew. Unfortunately, with several more new ones in the last couple of days, this did not come to pass, instead, the lockdown for the whole country was extended for another week.</p> <p>Waiting for the lockdown to end the next week, only to get a further extension on Sunday, was something we experienced several other times, before the actual return to normalcy.</p> <p>During our evening walk, we got to the intersection of our small alley with the main street towards the city centre. Just wanted to have a look around and while we were doing so a young soldier approached us. There was a military blockade on the intersection with three soldiers, all armed with machine guns. He asked us, very politely where we were going and if we needed any assistance. When I told him we were just looking he let us continue - no cars on the street, not even people walking. I don't chat every day with heavily armed men, it made me wonder if they ever need to use those machine guns. Maybe a machine gun is one of those things you don't need just because you have it, but if you don't have it you might need it.</p> <h3>Day 32 (20 April): The biggest cluster</h3> <p>A spike of new cases today. Sailors from a navy base were looking for a person with COVID-19 suspected of evading quarantine and in the process got unknowingly infected themselves. Before that was discovered, some of them went to their homes, further spreading the disease. The whole naval complex in Welisara, close to the capital Colombo, had to be put under quarantine in order to contain the outbreak, along with hundreds of others - relatives, acquaintances and anyone else, who have had contact with personnel from the base. This grew to be the largest cluster of coronavirus cases in the country and the lockdown stayed in place for more than a month extra because of it.</p> <p>33 new cases for the day brought the total number to 304. For a long time, the death toll stood at 7.</p> <h3>Day 37 (25 April): More food!</h3> <p>Each week there were new choices added on UberEats and PickMe. It was obvious more and more businesses got the necessary permits and more drivers were available. Even then many restaurants opened for 3-4 hours a day, most had "special" restricted menus, but food was available - local meals, burgers, pizza, and many more. Delivery times improved too - in the first weeks the average wait was about 2 hours, now, some orders took less than 60 minutes to come to us.</p> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'responsive_image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'image' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'filter_caption' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --> <figure role="group" class="middle-column image-style-middle-column img-responsive align-center"><span class="caption-span"> <img alt="biscuits" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0d981014-7fd6-42f1-9910-6a91af3c6c23" data-responsive-image-style="middle_column" sizes="(min-width: 768px) 50vw, 100vw" src="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/inline-images/2020-04-11%2014.43.45.jpg" srcset="/sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_520px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-04-11%2014.43.45.jpg?itok=jkMVq9B5 520w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_760px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-04-11%2014.43.45.jpg?itok=oDYhyVkY 760w, /sites/2hungrywanderers.com/files/styles/w_1000px_wm_optimized/public/inline-images/2020-04-11%2014.43.45.jpg?itok=aCaHBcHL 1000w" typeof="foaf:Image" /></span> <figcaption class="figure-caption">catch of the day</figcaption></figure><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/filter-caption.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/image.html.twig' --><!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/responsive_image/templates/responsive-image.html.twig' --><h3>Day 39 (27 April): Bad news from the navy</h3> <p>Two days of record-high number of new cases - over 60 and now the total is 588. Most of those are from the navy base of Welisara.</p> <h2>Is this the end of it?</h2> <h3>Day 53 (11 May): Shopping in a real supermarket</h3> <p>Only 7 new cases today and a steady decline in numbers for the last week. Thanks to the improving COVID-19 situation restrictions began to ease a little. For the last week, new cases were recorded only in quarantine centres and military bases, so now, while curfew is still in place, some supermarkets and pharmacies are allowed to open in Colombo. Locals are allowed to go out on days of the week determined by the last digit of their ID card - 1 and 2 - Mondays, 3 and 4 - Tuesdays and so on. Walking distance from home, only when needed and of course - wearing a mask at all times. The rules for foreigners are not clear, but we decided to try our luck. Going shopping for the first time in months!</p> <p>Armed with passports, masks and cash we headed to the nearest supermarket. The army post on the main street was still there, but just observing, they didn't stop us this time. A lot of traffic everywhere - less than normal, but compared to the empty streets from days ago the increase in both pedestrians and vehicles was big. Another change we noticed on the way was that some of the tuk-tuks on the road were equipped with a plastic sheet between the back (passenger) seat and the driver. Although not mandatory (yet) many drivers had installed this to protect themselves. </p> <p>Walking past a hospital, we saw a doctor or a nurse in full protective gear: white hazmat-style suit, mask, gloves and a faceguard. Luckily for us, since the pandemic started we haven't visited a hospital and this was the first time we encountered this new reality in person. It is one thing to watch it online, but seeing this level of protection for a medical professional as the new normal sent a chill down my spine.</p> <p>We were expecting a lot of people at the supermarket, but that was not the case. From the outside, everything looked as usual, except for the four police officers who were just lingering in the parking lot. The security guard at the entrance pointed us to a sink (foot pedal activated), placed outside - we had to wash our hands before going in. Next was checking our temperature, for some reason he pointed the thermometer gun at my mouth (covered by the mask), but after a couple of seconds nodded approvingly and we were finally inside the store.</p> <p>It wasn't crowded at all and to my surprise, it was very well stocked. I expected the strict measures enforced in the whole country to have adversely affected the supply chains, but that was not the case. Fresh fruits and veggies, choice of meats and seafood, almost no empty shelves - everything looked close to normal. Probably not exactly as before the lockdown, but I would way 80% there. </p> <p>On our evening walk, we again noticed significantly more people outside. I don't think it was a coincidence that the police was everywhere too, two patrols decided to have a chat with us. The first just wanted to make sure we have our masks on, the second asked us general questions, like if everything is ok and if we are staying nearby. </p> <h3>Day 54 (12 May): Another visa extension</h3> <p>Our tourist visas were extended automatically with another month. To pay all the fees we had to make an appointment by submitting a form online. As soon as the lockdown was over we would be able to go to the Immigration office to get another extension, if needed, and make all payments. This was a new system - only a handful of people were to be at the office at a time, no queues, no crowds, in line with the social distancing norms. We were still unsure what would be the fees or how long we could extend for.</p> <h3>Day 58 (16 May): Thailand is a no-go</h3> <p>Crushing news from Thailand - the total ban on all international travel is extended until the end of June. At least a month and a half until we get a chance to reach the Land of Smiles. On days like this, we deeply regret not staying in Thailand when we had a chance.</p> <h3>Day 59 (17 May): Next week, maybe?</h3> <p>Our future in Sri Lanka was looking brighter! As the number of active cases steadily continued to decrease more and more restrictions were getting lifted. Today, for a first time since the beginning of the lockdown Uber was live, offering rides during the daytime, albeit strongly advising to travel only if needed. Government offices and some non-essential businesses were set to open next week, there were even rumours that travel between districts may be on the horizon after a week or two if things kept going well.</p> <h3>Day 62 (20 May): Can we do some sightseeing?</h3> <p>Our landlord offered to help us organize a tour around the country. On paper travel for tourism purposes was not allowed, even for essential travel between districts special permits were required from a doctor and the local police station, but there were ways to get things done. At that moment we were a bit hesitant, as going down this path would have meant higher prices for everything, closed parks and attractions and to be 100% dependable on our tour guide. We always prefer a more DIY approach with a flexible schedule, so we were considering waiting a week more and hoping for trains, buses and travel to resume as normal.</p> <h3>Day 63 (21 May): Sad news</h3> <p>A tragic incident occurred in Maligawatta, a Muslim area of Colombo. Three people lost their lives in a stampede which was caused by a crowd gathered in the hope of collecting a cash handout. A local businessman announced his annual give away of 1500 LKR (8 USD) per person in celebration of Ramadan, a decades-old tradition in the Muslim community. Despite the full lockdown in the city, more than a thousand people were waiting in front of the businessman's factory. When the gates opened, three women were trampled to death by the unexpectedly large crowd, nine more people suffered serious injuries. The businessman and five of his associates were arrested for curfew violations. A sad fact is that many people have been left without income for months. It also has been reported that distributing the Government monthly cash handouts of 5000 LKR (27 USD) to millions of families living below the poverty line has also caused chaotic scenes in some places.</p> <h3>Day 68 (26 May): It is over. For now.</h3> <p>After 67 days of lockdown, today is the first day that things are starting to get back to normal. Curfew is now imposed between 10 pm and 4 am, during the day businesses are open, public transport is running, no more restrictions on movements. Except for the districts of Colombo and Gampaha, the highest-risk zones, travel between districts is allowed.</p> <p>Things are not exactly as before - masks are compulsory everywhere, be it on the street, in the store or in the office. Social distancing is the new norm, all customer-facing businesses are taking precautions - extensive cleaning, special clothing, hand sanitizers at the entrances. Police are overseeing that everyone is complying with the rules.</p> <p>We went out on a long evening walk and it was nice to see so many people outside. Some stores were open, restaurants were handling pick-up orders and traffic on the streets was almost as bad as usual.</p> <p>Meanwhile, today is also the day with the biggest number of new coronavirus cases - 96. But there is nothing to worry about, they are all emerging from the quarantine centres around the country - 88 are Sri Lankans who recently returned from Kuwait and the rest are from the navy coronavirus cluster. The reality is that it has been almost a month without a case in society. The total number of cases reached 1182 with only 477 remaining active and 10 deaths registered.</p> <h2>Final thoughts</h2> <p>We are publishing this article on 26 May 2020, after more than two months in confinement. At the moment the situation looks very promising, but it is not over yet. We hope that Sri Lanka continues its success.</p> <p>We are especially thankful to our host Mr F and his family for taking care of us. Also, we want to thank all the military, police, medical staff, delivery drivers and everyone who worked during those difficult times, making sure we and the rest of the country are safe.</p> <p>We will post more updates in the comments, you can join us there with your experiences or questions.</p> <h3>Sources</h3> <p><a href="https://www.aninews.in/news/world/asia/52-yr-old-tour-guide-becomes-first-covid-19-positive-case-in-sri-lanka20200311122322/">https://www.aninews.in/news/world/asia/52-yr-old-tour-guide-becomes-fir…</a><br /> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/COVID-19_pandemic_in_Sri_Lanka">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/COVID-19_pandemic_in_Sri_Lanka</a><br /> <a href="https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/sri-lanka-stampede-covid-19-coronavirus-women-crushed-deaths-12757812">https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/sri-lanka-stampede-covid-19-c…</a><br /> <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-52762000">https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-52762000</a><br /> <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/covid-19-reminds-me-of-my-days-as-doctor-during-cholera-outbreak-in-bdesh-taslima-nasreen/articleshow/75106331.cms">https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/covid-19-reminds-m…</a><br /> <a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/petitions-challenge-sri-lankan-governments-compulsory-cremation-rule/article31585459.ece">https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/petitions-challenge-sri-lan…</a><br /> <a href="https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-fight-joined-by-curfew-credit-relief-and-border-controls-59785/">https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-coronavirus-fight-joined-by-curfew-cr…</a><br /> <a href="https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-airports-to-suspend-arrivals-till-march-25-updated-59538/">https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-airports-to-suspend-arrivals-till-mar…</a><br /> <a href="https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/04/03/sri-lanka-uses-pandemic-curtail-free-expression">https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/04/03/sri-lanka-uses-pandemic-curtail-fre…</a><br /> <a href="http://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking_news/Strict-action-against-those-criticise-state-officials-on-social-media/108-186028">http://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking_news/Strict-action-against-those-cri…</a><br /> <a href="http://www.adaderana.lk/">http://www.adaderana.lk/</a><br /> <a href="http://www.caa.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=149&amp;Itemid=521">http://www.caa.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=…</a><br /> <a href="https://www.epid.gov.lk/web/">https://www.epid.gov.lk/web/</a><br /> <a href="http://www.caa.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=113&amp;Itemid=562">http://www.caa.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=…</a><br /> <a href="https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-sets-price-control-on-rice-at-rs90-a-kilogram-65108/">https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-sets-price-control-on-rice-at-rs90-a-…</a></p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-date-visited.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-date-visited clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--field-date-visited--post--default.html.twig * 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'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'bs_2col' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x bs-2col.html.twig x bs-2col.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'modules/contrib/bootstrap_layouts/templates/3.0.0/bs-2col.html.twig' --> <div class="row bs-2col"> <div class="col-sm-6 bs-region bs-region--left"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--field-destinations.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostfield-destinations clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Destinations</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * 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'layout__onecol' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: x layout--onecol.html.twig x layout--onecol.html.twig * layout.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> <div class="layout layout--onecol"> <div class="layout__region layout__region--content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--field-block--node--post--comment.html.twig * block--field-block--node--post.html.twig * block--field-block--node.html.twig * block--field-block.html.twig * block--layout-builder.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodepostcomment clearfix"> <h2 class="block-title">Comments</h2> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--comment--post--default.html.twig * field--node--comment--post.html.twig * field--node--comment.html.twig * field--node--post.html.twig x field--comment.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> <section> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'comment__comment__post' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * comment--comment--post.html.twig * comment--comment.html.twig x comment.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/comment.html.twig' --> <article role="article" data-comment-user-id="1" id="comment-1" about="/comment/1" typeof="schema:Comment" class="comment js-comment by-node-author clearfix"> <span class="hidden" data-comment-timestamp="1591418968"></span> <footer class="comment__meta"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'user' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * user--compact.html.twig x user.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/user.html.twig' --> <article typeof="schema:Person" about="/index.php/user/1"> </article> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/user.html.twig' --> <p class="comment__author"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'rdf_wrapper' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/rdf/templates/rdf-wrapper.html.twig' --> <span rel="schema:author"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span lang="" about="/user/1" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">2hw</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/rdf/templates/rdf-wrapper.html.twig' --> </p> <p class="comment__time">Fri, 05/29/2020 - 05:15 <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'rdf_metadata' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/rdf/templates/rdf-metadata.html.twig' --> <span property="schema:dateCreated" content="2020-05-29T02:15:52+00:00" class="hidden"></span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/rdf/templates/rdf-metadata.html.twig' --> </p> <p class="comment__permalink"><a href="/comment/1#comment-1" hreflang="en">Permalink</a></p> </footer> <div class="comment__content"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--comment--comment-body--comment.html.twig * field--comment--comment-body.html.twig * field--comment--comment.html.twig * field--comment-body.html.twig * field--text-long.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div property="schema:text" class="field field--name-comment-body field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field--item"><h3>29 May - Visas extended</h3> <p>Weeks ago we had made an online request for extending our visas. There wasn't much information about what is to be expected, but we headed to the "Department for Registration of Persons" knowing that we have a 15-minute appointment window, a system implemented to avoid queues and guarantee efficient service and social distancing.</p> <p>The first surprise was waiting for us even before entering the building. A queue was formed and an angry security guard was making sure people stood on marked lines about 1 meter apart. He insisted on us doing the same. Please feel free to enlighten me what is achieved by spacing two people 1-2 steps from each other for several minutes, considering those two people spent the last 3 months living together in one room, sleeping in one bed and so on.</p> <p>Inside we were pointed to a counter where print outs of our forms were waiting for us, almost no waiting there. Next step was the cashier, where we spent around 45 minutes in line with 10-15 people in front of us. The last step was waiting for our passports to get the visa stickers and be returned to us. The waiting area in front of the counter where a single employee called out names was crowded, we waited for an hour for our turn. It appeared that the order for receiving was a bit random - we got our passports before some people who were already waiting there before us, some others showed up after us and were processed before us.</p> <p>After the department "waiving" the penalty charge we had to pay roughly $120 for the visa extensions per person. I think those are the usual rates, but considering the situation, it feels like a money grab, especially when most countries extended tourist visas for free because of the COVID-19 pandemic.</p> <p>The overall experience was not positive, we spend half a day for our 15-minute appointment for something that could've easily be done online. </p></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <drupal-render-placeholder callback="comment.lazy_builders:renderLinks" arguments="0=1&amp;1=default&amp;2=en&amp;3=" token="f2l6E3exSxFDxa_4V_oxZaC4lhbUjGxcEMIVDS7iiXI"></drupal-render-placeholder> </div> </article> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/custom/bs_2hw1/templates/comment.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'pager' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/pager.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/pager.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/comment/templates/field--comment.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'block' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * block--block-content--33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0.html.twig * block--block-content.html.twig x block.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> <section class="block block-block-content block-block-content33e89c58-379a-4510-9f42-cd3599b682d0 clearfix"> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--block-content--body--basic.html.twig * field--block-content--body.html.twig * field--block-content--basic.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><div class="loginBtnSocialDiv"> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--facebook"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/facebook">Login with Facebook</a> </button> <button class="loginBtnSocial loginBtnSocial--google"> <a href="https://2hungrywanderers.com/user/login/google">Login with Google</a> </button> </div></div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> </section> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/block/block.html.twig' --> </div> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/layout_discovery/layouts/onecol/layout--onecol.html.twig' --> Tue, 26 May 2020 14:19:17 +0000 2hw 98 at https://2hungrywanderers.com https://2hungrywanderers.com/how-sri-lanka-won-against-covid-19-and-how-we-spent-2-months-under-total-lockdown-colombo#comments