Yesterday morning we headed out to Lion Rock, we were delivered into the hands of a local guide to take us to the top and explain the various areas in the ancient fortress/palace. In many ways it was like going to Angkor Wat but on a smaller scale and without the buildings. There was a large moat around the area and remnants of various pools and water features. Unfortunately it was quite warm and humid which was felt with every step. I had heard that it was 200 steps to the top. Unfortunately again I was wrong - 200 metres, 1200 steps. A local guide latched onto me with a vicelike grip on my arm and practically dragged me up the narrow steps. Despite my protestations that I was ok there was no getting rid of him.
We walked up the various levels admiring the views (for a rest) and to learn about the caves and other features. When we eventually got to the top the views were well worth it - views of the countryside in all directions, mountains and forests.
The walk down was much easier, perhaps the cooler breeze came from the fact that our clothes were dripping wet! We stopped to admire the frescoes in one section, a carved stone for a throne and more caves. I gave my helper 500 rupees for his assistance but he was not happy. I told him that was enough but he tried a few more times to suggest 1000 was a better price but had to leave with 500 when I continued to ignore him!
After a dip and a few hours down time at the hotel we headed out for a Jeep Safari in Eco National Park to spot elephants. We were one of what seemed like 50 jeeps driving around on bumpy dirt roads. We drove up to an area where other jeeps were stopped and spotted about 5 elephants in the tall grass. My new camera made zooming in on these easy! We continued to drive and see small groups of elephants. At one point we stopped at a viewing platform but couldn't see any elephants from there.
It seemed that all of the other jeeps had gone home but we took one last path to try and see some more. Much to our luck there was a herd of perhaps 15 elephants grazing. They came within metres of our jeep and we were able to see one small elephant and then a fluffy black baby - so cute. We were fortunate to have seen these and certainly enjoyed our safari!
This morning we left Sigiriya to head to the east coast and a place called Passikudah. This area has only opened up to tourists in the last few years. We are staying at a lovely resort on the beach called Amaya Beach Resort and Spa. It is very busy as many families are still travelling for New Year but we are on a lovely beach and have a nice pool to cool off in. We're here for three nights and have checked out a few local places where we might eat. I'm sure we'll be well relaxed by the time we leave here.