Life in the jungle continues as ever, with countless birds and animals sighted, friendly local farmers met, impromptu Sinhalese lessons from the clever and curious children, and of course continuing spectacular vistas and panoramas every time I look up to the horizon!
We had a day off a few days ago, and seized the opportunity to visit the impressive Sigiriya, an ancient Buddhist monastry site built upon a hardened lump of magma, its volcano long since eroded. You get to walk right to the summit, along some perilous staircases in which it is well advised not to look down! Definitely worth the view from the top though: mile upon mile of lush, verdant jungle and distant, shrouded mountains.
Later in the afternoon we visited the Dambulla Rock Temples: another hike uphill, then the caves themselves are cool and dark as you enter. The ceilings and walls are frescoed with images of the Buddha and his life, and the caves are filled with a multitude of statues of the enlightened teacher. So quiet is Sri Lanka that even in these renowned places, you have the caves to yourself at points, perfect for quiet reflection and thoughts.
I'm currently writing this from the main campsite in Wasgamuwa, with the tank below shimmering in the late afternoon light, the Knuckles mountain ranges visible in the distance.We're just about to go to the treehut for some elephant-spotting, so for now I will leave you...
Don't think I would have enjoyed the climbs, but would have loved the views.
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