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.

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.

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.

It is truly an honour for this little paradise island to have been identified as one of the Best safari destinations in the world. With the abundance of wildlife that Sri Lanka is home to, it is no doubt that some of the best safari experiences in the world can be found here. What makes it even better is the hospitality and comfort offered by Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts while you’re mesmerized.

Sri Lanka boasts some of the highest rates of biological endemism in the world – meaning that 16% of its fauna and 23% of its flora are unique to the country. It has an abundance of bird-life – more than 400 species – and has its very own ‘big five’: elephants, leopards, sloth bears, blue whales and sperm whales. It is also one of the few places where people can combine whale watching with land safari in the same day.

There are 26 state-owned national parks covering an area of 5,734sqkm (2,214sqmi), much of which is protected by the Sri Lankan Department of Wildlife Conservation.

Here are two of the best safaris in Sri Lanka. You can lounge and dine and in comfort with us at Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts while you visit the following Sri Lanka safari parks;

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is one of the most famous safari parks in the island right now covering an area of 378 square miles. Both locals and foreigners have been mesmerized by the breathtaking leopard-spottings in Yala. You can spot these while you’re at Yala; Sloth bear, Leopards, Sri Lankan Elephants and Wild Water Buffalo.

Yala is situated 195km away from Colombo and is around a 6-hour drive from Colombo. Make your stay worthwhile and comfortable by staying with us at Cinnamon Wild Yala and we will curate you’re your Yala safari Sri Lanka, just as you desire.

Minneriya National Park

If you’re in love with the majestic creatures that Sri Lanka homes, do visit the Minneriya National Park to witness hundreds of Elephants roam and graze in their natural habitat. Safari through the grassland and along the lakes and be astonished by one of the worlds’ largest wild Asian elephant gatherings.

Minneriya is located 190 km away from Colombo which is approximately a 5.5-hour drive from Colombo. You can also book your stay at Cinnamon Lodge Habarana or Habarana Village by Cinnamon where our in-house naturalists will do the needful for a perfect safari.

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.

The perfect getaway consists of the following: uninterrupted views of the beach, a cocktail in hand and excellent company, everything that makes you feel alive. The Tropic Bar at Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon is the embodiment of this concept. From the lively plants decorating the interior, the upbeat music and to the friendly bartenders, all elements of the bar celebrate life and all its moments, good and otherwise.

The Tropic Bar is a place your worries will be left at the threshold. Amongst the crashing waves and the eccentric interiors and the cocktails that come in all flavours sweet, spicy, and sour, you will soon find yourself swaying to the music and feel lighter as your worldly troubles slip away. Here, everything is a new experience yet delivered with the familiar luxury of Cinnamon making you fall in love with the thrill of being alive.

The Tropic Bar has two infamous cocktails: the Chili Martini and the Gin Pincha. The drinks are of colour with unique flavours you will only find in Hikka Tranz. The Chili Martini is made by muddling a few secret ingredients and shaken and poured into a martini glass. On the other hand, the recipe for Gin Pincha is too kept undisclosed. It is served on the rocks and is the perfect combination of sweet and spice. While these are just two of the plethora of cocktails prepared here, they have the punch to bring you alive and have you dancing the night away, making your stay in the party central of Sri Lanka a most memorable one.

An element that catches the eye of all those who step in the bar is the custom painting of the tropical birds. This adds colour to the set up and brings the theme of tropics to the bar, offering the customers a wholesome tropical experience. Hikkaduwa is crowded with eager partygoers making it the party central of the island. The city is waiting for the next big party and the Tropic Bar makes it happen every night.

Among the tropical plants, birds and the exotic cocktails is the sound of laughter of friends turned family. The setting is casual, and the crowd is clad in beach shirts and shorts. The weekend away at Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon soothing enough to rejuvenate you for the week that awaits but the Tropics Bar is a must visit to complete your getaway. Spend your day at the golden beach, dip in the pool in the evening and head over to Tropic Bar to watch the sun go down while you live it up, the perfect recipe for the picture-perfect getaway.

Life can be challenging, rough and even weary but at the Tropic Bar, it is nothing but good. We have concocted the elixir of life to remind you of the good times and the lasting memories that will have you coming back for more. Book your next visit at Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon for a truly transcending getaway with your friends and family and visit the Tropic Bar to embrace the spirit of life and let us take you to a different state of mind where life happens at its best. Let the week end, and the party begin.