Here are 5 things to know about Pidurangala:

1. How to get there

Pidurangala is situated in a village of the same name, within the district of Matale. It is only 2.5 km from the rock fortress in Sigiriya which makes an ideal base from which to visit. Whilst you stay with us at Cinnamon Lodge Habarana or Habarana Village by Cinnamon, we can arrange a visit to Pidurnagala for you, with ease.

2. A part of history

Pidurangala Rock has a long history which is widely believed to date back to the second century BC and is where a monastery was built by King Kashyapa. Ancient chronicles state that monks who previously resided at Sigiriya were donated the temple by the king before he took to building the marvellous structure atop Sigiriya Rock. The temple consisted of five buildings called ‘Panchavasa’, some of which can still be seen during your visit.

3. At the foot

At the very entrance of the ancient monastery premises, a whitewashed temple built into the rock interface is housed, constructed during the early 1930s. Venture in to explore the ancient
cave temple which quite literally dates back thousands of years! Here you will also see on display vintage objects and artefacts which reflect influences from various Buddhist periods. We think you should sonsider taking a little detour to visit the ruins of an ancient Image House and Chapter House.
It is important to remember to cover your shoulders and knees and walk barefoot as you pass through the temple premises as a sign of respect.

4. The Climb

We suggest you take the trek to the summit of Pidurangala to catch the sunrise or sunset and witness the show of colour put on by the sky. The hike takes around 45 minutes (depending on your pace) and there is much to see on the way up.After around 15 to 20 minutes you will reach a plateau-like area where you can take time to just soak up the amazing panorama. You will find some historic ruins here, along with one of the highlights, a statue of a reclining Buddha; the age-old plaster now only covers the bottom half, the rest made up of russet coloured bricks exposed to the elements.The brickwork supposedly divided meditational spaces for the monks. At the very furthest into the cavern, a massive 46 foot recumbent Buddha can be seen. At one point in time, this was the largest brick statue of a reclining Buddha statue and offers an insight into the rock’s rich past.

After a short while, you will reach your reward; a breathtaking vista of an emerald carpet of greenery leading up to the inspiring sight of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, soaring majestically to the clouds. As time passes, it is easy to get lost in this sight and do take your time just soaking it all in.

5. At the summit

Don’t know what to expect at the end of your Pidurangala Hike? Words won’t do justice but do take our word for this one! At the summit of this 199m tall Pidurangala Rock you will be greeted by a breathtaking view of the Sigiriya Rock and its surroundings! Thich jungle, clouds, rolling and endless blue skies and clouds, and a cool breeze to replenish your energy. So don’t miss out! Make sure you visit Pidurangala during your visit to Sri Lanka.

Photo credits: Flora Gonzalez Lopez

The sun found its way to the room and warmed my skin. Happy birthday to me. He opened the curtains and I almost lost my breath when I saw what laid before my eyes; the vast Indian ocean in its magnificence. The gentle rays of sun on the blue of the waters made the waves shine in silver. The sound of the waves and the coconut trees swaying in the winds welcomed me to my next chapter with a reminder of how good life can be.

Breakfast, however, was unusual. I was craving warm and creamy Milk Rice paired with the spices of Lunu Miris but my heart fell as he walked past the buffet area. With my hand in his, he looked almost giddy in anticipation and I was getting curious. A waiter accompanied us as we walked towards the beach.

What awaited me was beyond my wildest dreams. We waded into the waves and walked towards the sea. There was a table for two set up on a rock bed further into the sea. He escorted me towards it with the waiter in tow, and there laid my breakfast spread; the Milk Rice and Lunu Miris. The waiter informed us that an International Cinnamon Breakfast could be offered if requested. He also mentioned that all food is prepared at the location by the Executive Chef, making sure each dish given attention to detail.

I was having my birthday breakfast surrounded by the ocean!

Yes, it is as dreamy as it sounds. The rock the table was set up, was in fact a coral. The waiter informed me that the coral was in fact dead, and we were not causing any harm. Once he left, it was the both of us under the baby blue skies and the soft clouds; I could see the moon fading away as the sun took over. Our feet were massaged by the lapping waves, crowded against our ankles, the water was cool and soothing. We were surrounded by the limitlessness of the sky and the ocean, making us feel infinite ourselves. The seclusion and the romance only nature can allow had engulfed us and the world outside ceased to exist.

He recreated my perfect birthday morning with an extraordinary experience that simply took my breath away. After we were done with the breakfast, the surprise continued with the waiter returning with a scrumptious chocolate birthday cake – my favourite!

The reef dining experience by Cinnamon Bey Beruwala was a magical affair. The breakfast enthralling, rejuvenating us and making me fall in love with the island I’m in and the simple fact of being alive.

I later learned that the reef dining was introduced in April 2022 and is open for small families and couples such as us. Now you too can enjoy the intimacy of being among the best of nature while escaping the world. Let the waves wash away your worries as you walk towards the reef. When you’re there, little else matters.

Here are some of the best food in Sri Lanka that you shouldn’t miss on your voyage to Sri Lanka.

1. Isso Vade

Here in Sri Lanka, it’s always a good time for a crispy and chewy isso vade from a wayside-lender. Isso vade could be translated to mean “Prawn Vadai” and is a simple snack made with fried lentils and scrumptious prawns served with a dab of lime juice orchopped onions. These are a must try while you stroll around at the Galle Face Green while you await the heartwarming sunset.

2. Hoppers

Hoppers are famous for its texture; crispy around the edges and a soft core in the center. They are another local staple and a definite must try. Hoppers resemble a somewhat light pancake batter but with an addition of coconut milk and palm wine. Some may also prefer their hoppers with a fried egg tossed in the middle. Whether you’ve got a sweet tooth or prefer your food hot and spicy; worry not, hoppers are perfectly customizable to your preference. Head on over to Nuga Gama at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo to taste this local delicacy.

3. Local Seafood by the Beach

It’s no surprise that Sri Lanka is famous for some of the best sea food dishes in the area owing to its prime location by the Indian Ocean. Colombo is most definitely a seafood lovers’ paradise. Enjoy a variety of delectable seafood dishes while you wind down and relax by the beach. You can find many seaside restaurants that will prepare your seafood to your preference. Choose from Crabs, King Prawns, Butterfish, Snapper, Lobster, Squid and much more.

4. Kottu Roti

Kottu Roti is definitely the most popular and most consumed street food in Sri Lanka and there’s so many reasons why! Kottu Roti is made from Godhamba roti, vegetables, egg, spices and a preferred meat or even no meat at all. It’s the perfect balance of flavours, with a perfectly creamy texture, succulent seasoning. So be prepared to be amazed at the perfect balance of rich flavours in your Kottu Roti.

5. Local Rice and Curry

This one’s a local staple; to say that Sri Lankans enjoy their rice and curry is an understatement. Locals absolutely love their rice and curry; especially the perfect lentil curry called “Dhal Curry” and the local Coconut Sambol famously referred to as “Pol Sambol” by the locals. While you’re in Sri Lanka, you must treat yourself to local rice and curry in order to experience Sri Lanka to the fullest!

You can taste and enjoy these dishes and more in style at many of the Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts properties including Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, Habarana Village by Cinnamon or even the restaurant, Nuga Gama at Cinnamon Grand Colombo; which is a rustic haven in the middle of an urban atmosphere, serving all Sri Lankan delicacies cooked by local chefs and in the perfect local setting. Along with the scrumptious and tantalizing dishes, Sri Lankan hospitality at its purest will be pleased to treat you.

The ‘Cinnamon Rainforest Restoration Project’ in collaboration with Ruk Rakaganno (The Tree Society of Sri Lanka), Forest Department-Sri Lanka, and John Keells Foundation aims to restore a deteriorated 50-acre plot over a period of three years after which nature will take over the regeneration process.

Here are 5 facts about the Cinnamon Rainforest Restoration Project:

1. Restoring and reforesting this 50-acre site will further enrich the ecological significance of the region which also consists of numerous waterfalls and places of cultural and religious significance. Restoring and reforesting this 50-acre site will further enrich the ecological significance of the region which also consists of numerous waterfalls and places of cultural and religious significance.

2. The rate of loss of green cover during the past 50 years is unprecedented in human history and World Environment Day is one of the largest movements for the environment. This year’s theme,“Only One Earth”, which was also its motto for its 1972 conference, reflects the need to live sustainably in harmony with nature.

3. Likewise, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is propagating a shift towards a greener lifestyle through policies and individual choices. The Cinnamon Rain Forest Restoration Project provides a role model for working with nature rather than against it.The 50-acre site is situated in the Ratnapura District, at a proximity of 3.5 kilometers from the biodiversity hotspot and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, one of the few virgin forests left in the world.

4. Interested guests from Cinnamon properties will be escorted by a trained naturalist guide to the site while encouraging them to adopt some trees. In time to come, the project also anticipates attracting environment lovers and students.

5. Natural systems are vital for our future. Nature not only provides us with food, water, clean air but it is also one of our strongest allies against the climate crisis. This World Environment Day, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts reflected on this initiative and placed a spotlight on this cause.

Known for its warm hospitality and idyllic natural beauty, Sri Lanka is proud to open its doors and welcome content creators from across the world. A magical and open invitation through the recently unveiled ‘One Island a Thousand Treasures’ campaign awaits them to participate in and celebrate its world-famous gastronomy, ancient traditions, cultural heritage, and extraordinary people.

Each of the Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts branded properties offers its guests the distinct opportunity to uncover the wide range of incredible sights and experiences each area has in abundance. You can uncover the secrets of Sri Lanka’s ancient and deadly martial art ‘Angampora’,and learn from a generations-old Master-craftsman as he fashions ordinary crystals into perfect optical lenses. Discover the mysteries of the white stone circle at the magnificent Danigala ‘Alien’ mountain and ponder the origin of its famed and unusual astrological drawings, dance in the moonlight to the enchanting songs of Batticaloa’s singing fish or ride atop an Asian elephant, even go out in search of the stunning and elusive Sri Lankan leopard or cruise alongside the frolicking dolphins and pods of titanic whales.

From our valleys to our mountain tops, from our flora to our fauna, from our rivers to our oceans, the opportunity for discovery is endless, and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts has everything any traveller needs to carve out their own remarkable Sri Lankan adventure and connect with the diverse and wonderful people who call it home.

The ‘One Island a Thousand Treasures’ campaign is the go-to interactive digital guide, designed with content creators, influencers, tourists, and adventurers in mind, to help them plan and find their own intrepid Sri Lankan adventure.

Artisans and craftspeople, attractions, experiences and tours can all reach out and join Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ ‘One Island a Thousand Treasures’ initiative, to become a valued partner, a stakeholder and a beneficiary of its success.

Whether you’re a content creator, influencer or holidaymaker,with a keen eye for a great story, you can participate by sharing your journey with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts via the ‘One Island a Thousand Treasures’ website or on your own Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube channels, tagging @CinnamonHotels and #OneIslandThousandTreasures. Our esteemed panel of experts will review each entry and reward content creators with a treasure trove of amazing discounts, giveaways, and one-of-a-kind getaways, presented by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, in association with ‘Sri Lanka Tourism’ and with our creative partner ‘Dentsu Grant’.

For more details on how you or your company can be a part of the ‘One Island a Thousand Treasures’ initiative, visit www.OITT.lk or follow Cinnamon Hotels on social media.

1. River Safari at the Madhu Ganga

A Boat Safari on the Madhu Ganga gives a two-in-one experience of witnessing the beautiful wildlife of Sri Lanka while you enjoy a boat ride, meandering past river dwellings and dense mangroves. Venture deep into these mangroves, and experience this unique adventure in Bentota. Connect with your loved one or even yourself at a deeper level on this adventurous yet relaxing river safari on an evening in Bentota.

2. Visiting the Brief Garden by Bevis Bawa

This must-see destination during your stay in Bentota is a garden designed and architected by the infamous Bevis Bawa. The garden once used to form part of his house and is to date one of the top tourist attractions in the area. Stroll along the statue capped gateways as you enter the paradise created by Bawa and enjoy the Japanese garden, wide lawn, the round pons and the water steps of this landscaping masterpiece. Take a walk in this garden and reminisce the good times past and the better times to come!

3. Take a stroll at the Moragalla Beach

Silky sand beneath your feet, sea salt in your hair, and the golden sun rays dancing on your skin! There is no better way to enjoy the beauty of Bentota than with a stroll at the beautiful sandy shores of the Moragalla Beach. Do make a visit to this beautiful beach to make your Bentota visit a complete one!

4. Endless water sport adventures

Stay with us at Cinnamon Bentota Beach and glide through the ceaseless sea by water skiing, and you’ll know what compels us to have such high standards. Water skiing is one of the many water sports Bentota is known for. The river around us has the perfect surface for this fun activity. Enjoy our on-site jet skis, canoes, boat rides and so much more in terms of watersports on offer for guests.

5. Exquisite architecture

During your stay at Cinnamon Bentota Beach, do take a few hours out of your schedule to walk around the hotel and experience its exquisite architecture. Cinnamon Bentota Beach is nestled in the mesmerizing Indian Ocean along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. With a heritage dating back to the 60’s and designed by one of Asia’s most influential architects Geoffrey Bawa, it is the ultimate tropical destination perfect for an art and architecture enthusiast or a lover of exquisite oceans. You can also request for a private tour of the art, history and architecture surrounding the hotel!

6. Art, history and culture; right at your fingertips!

Cinnamon Bentota Beach is the perfect getaway for a divine tropical holiday. The property is truly a feast for the senses, fringed by the Indian ocean, with its striking rich batik ceiling brought to life by Ena de Silva and the eclectic pieces of art peppering the property, the resort embodies the tropical beauty, art and culture of the island – a true microcosm of beautiful Sri Lanka. The arts and crafts within the property are from renowned artists and craftsman such as Laki Senanayake and Ismeth Raheem.

So don’t miss out! Stay with us at Cinnamon Bentota Beach and be mesmerized at the delightful experiences of Bentota that we offer.

1. How do I apply for Visa?

The Visa application process is undemanding and straightforward. It is entirely electronic and can be done from the comfort of your own home without having to tire yourself in lengthy queues; obtaining the Application, its submission and the approval of such Visa can all be done through the Department of Emigration and Immigration’s online Portal.

2. What must I see and do?

Among all the places to visit in Sri Lanka, it is a must to enjoy the sandy sun kissed beaches along the east coast of Sri Lanka, drive through the rugged roads of our National Parks in Minneriya, Yala or Wilpattuwith the wind rushing through your hair, set out to sea on a whale-watching mission in Bentota or Hikkaduwa, journey down the longest river of Sri Lanka by boat, hike through the luscious green jungles, discover ancient ruins in Anuradhapura and Pollonaruwa and observe the sacrality of the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy to truly have a taste of Sri Lanka.Sri Lanka travel places are innumerable, there are always things to do and see!

3. What are the people and their culture like?

The people of Sri Lanka are known for their hospitality, helpfulness and sociability. If you need any assistance or travel tips, be it at a hotel, place of worship or even on the road, do not hesitate to ask a by-stander to experience the true warmth of the Sri Lankan people as they go out of their way to help you.

Sri Lanka being a multiethnic country, its culture is rich, vivid and vibrant. Colorful religious and cultural festivals such as the Perahera processions, Vesak Festival, Sinhala and Tamil New Year etc. are brimming with traditions and customs unique to Sri Lankan Culture which have been passed down from generations, over its 2000-year-old rich history.

4. How do I connect?

Most Telecommunication and Wi-Fi providers in Sri Lanka are easily accessible at the Airport or in any retail shop in the cities. All Network service providers provide special packages for tourist at a special rate and custom made to suit the requirements of tourists. Telecommunication and Wi-Fi are considered to be comparatively cheaper in Sri Lanka than in other countries, so there’s nothing stopping you from sharing your thrilling travels in Sri Lanka with everyone back home.

5. When should I visit?

This Paradise Island is considered to be a year-round destination but the best time to visit depends on the region of the country you hope to explore. Sri Lanka is affected by two monsoons, although the temperature stays constant due to its location close to the equator. If you’re heading to the west and south coasts and hill country, December to March is the best time to visit Sri Lanka. If you plan on seeing the east coast, you’ll get the best weather from April/May to September. However, January to March and Mid-July to September is a fantastic time to travel across the whole country.

6. Where should I stay?

When the days’ adventure and exploration is done, there is no better way to relax and unwind than to enjoy the luxury of a plush, luxurious and comfortable room. Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts provides unique experiences which are refreshingly authentic and are sure to rejuvenate you after your travels in Sri Lanka with soothing spas, ayurvedic treatment centers and unexpected spaces to relax found across all 13 Cinnamon locations. Relax and prepare you for the adventures to come.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site is an important landmark chosen by the organization as a protected area. The places selected are usually in a historical location with cultural and anthropological importance. Keep reading to find out what they are, and plan your trip to visit them all.

1.The Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya is probably the most famous of the UNESCO heritage sites in Sri Lanka and is also called the ‘Eighth wonder of the world’. It is a definite must see in Sri Lanka for the beauty and heritage it beholds is marvelous and bewildering. You can make a day trip to Sigiriya while you stay in comfort with us at Cinnamon Lodge Habarana or Habarana Village by Cinnamon, which is only a 20-minute drive from Sigiriya.

2.The old city of Galle and its Fortifications

Galle is rich in historic and cultural importance, the scenic Galle lighthouse, Dutch Fort and its sprawling lavish sandy beaches make Galle a tourist hotspot and the perfect destination to add some colour to your Sri Lanka travels. The city of Galle and its fortifications have attracted much tourist attention, not only for its cultural and historic importance, but also for the beautiful views from the city and its fortifications.

3. Historic city of Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura forms part of the Cultural Triangle and it is no surprise why it has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, as it is a repository of ancient monuments and artefacts. The city is considered to be one of the oldest cities in the country, which has been continuously inhabited, and is home to many a cultural monuments and historical artefacts. This makes it a treasure trove for history-lovers and enthusiasts.

4.The Royal Cave Temple at Dambulla

For a pleasant surprise of colour, artefacts and statues, you must visit the Cave Temple at Dambulla. What awaits you atop this rock is simply breathtaking and definitely worth the climb of 160m. Magnificent wall paintings and over 150 statues in and around the temple makes this a tourist hotspot that can be visited easily during your stay at Cinnamon Lodge Habarana or Habarana Village by Cinnamon.

5. Sacred city of Kandy

Kandy, situated in a stunning natural landscape of rolling hills and mountains never cease to leave travelers in a jaw dropping excitement with its evocative and lush green landscapes but that is not all! Kandy was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site owing to the places of cultural importance including the Temple of the Tooth in all its ancient majesty and sacrality.

Experience the beauty of Kandy while you indulge with us at Cinnamon Citadel Kandy situated at the heart of all these sites in Kandy.

6. Sinharaja Forest Reserve

The Sinharaja Rainforest, loosely translated to mean the ‘Kingdom of the Lion’ is said to be the country’s last undisturbed area of primary tropical rainforest. Sinharaja is symbolic of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity and is home to innumerous amounts of rare endemic species including mammals, butterflies, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians. It is an absolute must that you explore the Sinharaja rain forest and witness the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka.

7. Central Highlands of Sri Lanka

This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises a combination of three wet-zone parks, which are the Peak Wilderness Protected Area, the Horton Plains National Park and also the Knuckles Conservation Forest. Being inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2010, it is the newest addition to Sri Lanka’s list of world heritage sites. The Central Highland of Sri Lanka was added to the list owing to its rich biodiversity and it is definitely a must visit on your Sri Lanka travels.

8. Ancient city of Polonaruwa

Polonaruwa is another city, which forms part of the cultural triangle and is full to the brim with rich culture and history. The ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa contain many Bhramanic constructions from the Chola civilization. It is simply heaven for history lovers and sight-seeing enthusiasts owing to the countless ruins to witness, including Polonnaruwa Vatadage, Hetadage, Rankoth Vehera, Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, Gal Vihara and Vatadage.

Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts has much to boast about with its plush and comfortable living spaces, luxurious room, delectable and wide array of food, top notch service and much more.

Therefore, do stay with us at Cinnamon whilst you explore the world heritage sites Sri Lanka has been endowed with.