Habarana is a sleepy town in Sri Lanka. Located in the dry zone, the area is rich in history and scrub jungles, as well as being home to herds of migratory elephants. Here are the best experiences in Habarana you can enjoy while staying at a Habarana village resort.
1. Enjoy an Elephant Spotting Safari
Jeep safaris into the wilds are among the popular Habarana attractions you should not miss. A safari will be easily organised by your village resort in Habarana, as most, like Habarana Village by Cinnamon, are dedicated to the service. There are several parks in the area famous for migratory herds of elephants. The Minneriya National Park is most famous for elephant spotting and is a vast reserve centred around the historic Minneriya Weva. This manmade lake has its origins in Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms, as it was commissioned by King Mahasen around the 3rd century. Apart from the elephants and rich history, you will enjoy the lush scenery inside Minneriya while spotting other wildlife.
2. Visit a Model Village
While staying at a Habarana village resort is quite the experience for savouring the simple charms of the countryside, you can plan a tour to a model village for an unforgettable experience. The Hiriwadunna model village tour is booked via resorts in Habarana for guests to enjoy a hands-on experience. Immerse yourself in the excitement of exploring the lush paddy fields and trekking through the forests. There are canoe rides on lakes festooned with lotus blooms, and also a chance to enjoy a delicious local meal cooked and served at one of the charming village homes.
3. Experience History
Habarana is central to the historic towns of Dambulla and Sigiriya; therefore, it’s easy to explore Sri Lanka’s rich history from your resort there. One of the most popular heritage tours in Habarana is a trip to the Ritigala Monastery. Located less than an hour from the top resorts in Habarana, this serene and spiritual collection of ruins will certainly help you relax and appreciate the tranquillity of nature. Explore the ruins of what was once a thriving Buddhist monastery located deep in the jungle. Although taken over by the forest today, the place still retains its religious vibes and is a cherished cultural attraction in Sri Lanka.
4. Go Bird Watching
The forested areas of lush village resorts in Habarana are ideal for birders to explore the many feathered friends frequenting the wilds. You can book a tour and enjoy the services of an experienced watcher, who will take you to popular areas for spotting feathered beauties like colourful kingfishers, darters, whistling teal, and many more. Make sure to wear a cap and take along plenty of hydration, as the weather can be quite hot.
5. Visit Sigiriya, the Lion’s Rock
Less than half an hour from Habarana hotels is the iconic Lion’s Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Listed as a wonder of the ancient world, Sigiriya is an important fixture in the island’s history, featuring a gigantic boulder-top fortress in the middle of the forest. Sigiriya has much to explore, and booking a tour will ensure you have a comprehensive experience. Aside from touring the fortress, you can also book a canoe ride on the Lotus Lake facing Sigiriya Rock.
