Chances are, you haven't heard of Habarana. Although the town is of little interest itself, it serves as a gateway to Sri Lanka’s wildlife-rich parks and other major attractions in the famous Cultural Triangle. Whether you’re climbing to the top of an ancient rock fortress, spotting wild animals on the back of a 4x4 or exploring the dimly-lit crevices of a cave temple, plenty of exciting experiences lie just around the corner.
Thanks to the abundant jungle and grasslands that surround Habarana, the town is a handy departure point for safaris to Minneriya National Park. It’s here where you’ll have the chance to witness one of Sri Lanka’s greatest natural spectacles - herds of elephants migrating across the island. The park is home to a whole host of other exotic mammals, birds and plant life too. It really is a wildlife-lovers haven.
If it’s ancient civilisations and archaeological wonders you’re in to, you’re in luck. Habarana is also a popular jumping off point for excursions to the famous Sigiriya Rock fortress. Rising dramatically out of the jungle-clad plains, the UNESCO-listed citadel is a breathtaking sight to behold. The nearby Dambulla Cave Temples are equally impressive and one of the best-preserved examples of Sri Lanka’s religious art.
So whether you’re a nature-enthusiast or you’re keen to discover more about Sri Lanka’s fascinating history and culture, Habarana is the place to stay.