Things To Do

Arika Luxury Villa in Sri Lanka

Perfect Location

The entire Cultural Triangle, which includes the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple, Archaeological sites of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa and the ancient Ritigala forest monastery, is in close proximity to Arika. Our staff are on hand to assist you in planning your visits to these fascinating heritage sites.
 

Drive Times

 

 

 

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

sigiriyaThe Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of the most awesome and beautiful historical locations in the world. We recommend an early morning visit to this amazing rock where you reach the peak in time to see the sun rise over the east coast of Sri Lanka. A late evening climb is also a great experience where you can watch the sunset on the other side of the rock. Be sure to wear comfortable cotton clothes and a sun hat for the climb. The last part of the climb to the top is on a very narrow stair way and not for the faint-hearted. However, one can climb up to the iconic Lion’s paw and experience the beautiful 360 degree views.

Ancient Kingdom of Polonnaruwa

rock-templePolonnaruwa – Sri Lanka’s royal medieval capital, continued to function as a capital until the late 13th century. Today, the ruins of this ancient city remain in remarkably good state, and are a fascinating sight. The most impressive are the ancient sculptures of Lord Buddha at the Gal Vihara. The famous Walt Disney movie `Monkey Kingdom’ was filmed in this area of the ancient city. Take a chance to see the stars of this film up close and enjoy the other wildlife that thrives in this amazing location. A morning visit is recommended, as it requires around three hours to see the entire complex. This is a half-day excursion from Arika.

Sacred Temple of Tooth Relic - Kandy

kandyA sacred tooth relic of the Lord Buddha has been enshrined within a golden casket in this ancient temple, since 4th Century AD. This magnificent temple with ancient murals, statues of Lord Buddha and a golden roof is venerated by Buddhists from across the world. Religious services are held daily at dawn, mid-day and in the evening. Visit the National Museum in Kandy to learn more about this sacred tooth relic.

Dambulla Cave Temple

dambulla-cave-templeJust 10 minutes away from Arika, the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple is a nice evening excursion not to be missed. The temple consists of five caves under a vast overhanging rock, carved with drip ledges to keep the interiors dry. Inside the caves are intricate murals that follow the contours of the rock. There are several remarkable images of the Lord Buddha.

Minneriya & Kaudulla National Parks

wild-lifeThe Cultural Triangle consists of extensive forest cover which is home to large herds of wild elephants, deer, wild buffalo and numerous species of dry zone birds. The jungles extend seamlessly across the Minnerirya and Kaudulla National Parks. During the dry season from about July to September, elephant herds migrate freely from one park to another in search of water. The receding shores of the Minneriya tank is a particular attraction for the elephants. They converge in their hundreds, an awesome sight famously known as the `Elephant Gathering’ which has been ranked 6th by Lonely Planet in the list of ‘Greatest wildlife spectacles in the world’. The National parks of Minneirya and Kaudulla are a one-hour drive from Arika.

Ibbankatuwa Pre-historic Burial Site

Ibbankatuwa
Located about 3kms from the Damublla cave temples is the Ibbankatuwa pre-historic burial site. This is an archaeological site of historical importance, which provides evidence of an indigenous civilization long before the arrival of early settlers from India.

Namal Uyana & the Pink Quartz Mountain

namal-uyana
Deep within the jungles of Dambulla is one of the oldest gardens in Sri Lanka known as the `Namal Uyana’ and the largest Pink Quartz mountain range in South Asia. This beautiful site was declared as a human sanctuary by King Dappula in 10th Century A.D. as shown in an inscription at the entrance to Namal Uyana. The rose-pink rock mixed with white mist gives this mountain a stunning appearance.

Local Village Experience

village
Join a guided village walk in Dambulla and meet with the local villagers. En route, stop by the nearby river and enjoy a cooling river bath.
Show Buttons
Share On Twitter
Share On Linkedin
Hide Buttons