I am feeling a little better today and was up to greet those who had walked up to Adams Peak during the night. Today has been making our way across the high hill hill country abundant in tea plantations to the old Victorian colonial town of Nuwara Eliya. One of the small towns we drove through had within a mile stretch of road, a Buddhist temple, a Hindu Temple, an Islamic Mosque and a Christian church - the four great religions in the world and the people living...

Today has been a very enjoyable drive up into hills where the tea grows. Mile after mile of plantations on the hillsides and where the old colonial English and Scottish names still exist because of the importance of 'brand' You get the sense that little much has changed here over the past few decades except for a few more backpackers and tourists arriving. The civil war has stunted investment and development in infrastructure and much of the public transport is o...

I am feeling absolute rubbish again today, just when I thought I might be turning the corner. So the botanical gardens were a bit of a blur albeit very colourful with many couples due to be married today getting their special photos. The women dress in red with beautiful jewellery and flowers.

Sorry not to have blogged for a few days. I have been feeling pretty rough with flu symptoms, although there are two nurses in the tour group if things get worse! I just have to be patient and hope the virus passes quickly which I am sure it will. Early this morning we climbed up Sigiriya (Lion Rock) which was a sky fortress built in the fifth century. It was built over a period of seven years to protect the reign of King Kassapa, who had assassinated his father ...

This morning, we explored the ancient city of Polonnaruwa which has similarities to Angkhor Wat in Cambodia, having been overgrown by jungle for many centuries. It is a tranquil place with the sound of birdsong and a few monkeys to add atmosphere. Occasionally the head of a Buddha has been removed by invaders over the years as it contained jewels such as sapphires. By lunchtime it is really hot even in the shade and plenty of water is the order of the day. This a...