Dambulla Cave Temple and Kaudulla National Park Safari
Head to Dambulla and visit the Royal Cave Temple, a vast isolated rock mass 500 feet high and a mile around the base.
Discover the first cave, which features a recumbent image of the Buddha 47 feet long, cut out of the rock. There are images of deities associated with Buddhism all around. The frescoes on the walls and ceiling are the oldest here, although they were painted over during the Kandy period.
Explore the second cave, the finest and largest of all. It contains 150 life-size statues of the Buddha in various postures, along with a few statues of gods and kings.
Trace the ceiling, which is also covered with frescoes depicting great events in the life of the Buddha and landmarks in the history of the Sinhalese people.
Have lunch.
Head to Kaudulla National Park for a jeep safari.
Travel to the Polonnaruwa District and marvel at the 6,900-hectare park, Kaudulla Wewa, and the surrounding jungle area.
Embark on a wildlife safari at Kaudulla National Park, home to a large number of elephants, Sambhur, Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, Wild Buffalo, a range of reptile species, and many bird species.
Drop back to your hotel.
