After our foray into Brunei, Phyless decided we needed to investigate pristine and mystical Sri Lanka.  We started off at Trincomalee known for some of the most picturesque and scenic beaches found in Sri Lanka. The area is famous for swimming, owing to the relative shallowness of the sea, allowing us to walk out over a hundred meters into the sea without the water passing our chests.

Phildup Relaxing at Trincomalee

After a relaxing break in the sun, we went on to investigate Dambulla, a city that boasts the largest and best preserved cave temple complex of Sri Lanka.  There we visited the reclining Buddha in the famous temple.

Visiting the Dambulla Buddha

Then Phyless decided to test my sense of rhythm by partnering me with some famous Sri Lankan dancers.  The beautiful women took pity on me and showed me some of their best-known traditional moves.  Sri Lankan dance, be it the rhythmic and acrobatic prowess of the Kandyan Ves dance or the supple grace of the harvest dancers, or even the controlled movements of the Bharatha Natyam, are all the more memorable for their vibrant costumes. These costumes are an intrinsic part of the overall dance forms, with their own rich heritage and traditions.  I stuck to an elaborate headdress, but the ladies dancing around me were like a brilliant rainbow.

Sri Lankan Dancers Led by Phildup

Then we visited Sigiriya (Lion’s Rock), a large stone and ancient rock fortress and palace ruin in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka, surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs, and other structures. A popular tourist destination, Sigiriya is also renowned for its ancient frescoes, which are reminiscent of the Ajanta Caves of India. It is one of the eight World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka and may have been inhabited through prehistoric times. It was used as a Buddhist monastery until 14th century.

Phyless on the Steps of Lion’s Rock

Now we’re off to India before circling around through Asia…stay tuned, fuel-saving fans!