Back on the overnight train and the stop this time, Habarana! Habarana is a great location to access both Sigiriya and Minneriya National Park.
I spent the morning at UNESCO Heritage Sight of the Ancient City of Sigiriya . This 180 meter or nearly 600 foot granite rock, has been inhabited since the 3rd Century BC. First it was home to Buddhist monks. Then in 495 King Kassapa turned Sigiriya into the capital, built his palace and fortified the rock. It is rumored that he even filled the surrounding moat with hundreds of crocodiles. Today, Sigriya is famous for its beautiful water gardens, ancient ruins, and “Maidens of the Clouds” frescos.
View of the rock from the lower water gardens. It’s over 1,200 stairs to get to the top!
Lilies and lotuses in one of the King’s gardens.
This is one of the 21 women that make up the “Maidens of the Clouds.” Painted by monks and meant to be seen from far distances, it is still unknown who the women are. Some say they are the women of the king. Others suggest they are women participating in religious ceremonies. 
Made it all the way to the top!
Quick coconut stop with the driver to rehydrate from the climb.
After a bit of rain, short nap, and a delicious lunch, I spent the afternoon in Minneriya Wildlife National Park. This is genuinely one of my favorite places in the whole world. I road around in a jeep for 4 hours simply enjoying the beauty of the land and sky.
The park is famous for its over 400 wild elephants! I probably saw at least 100 in one afternoon. 
The elephants prefer to eat the grass by the water because it is greener and better tasting. This fine lady is enjoying her afternoon snack with her heard. 
Fun elephant fact: Asian elephants have smaller ears than African elephants. Why? African elephants live in hot climates and need big ears to use as fans. Whereas Asian elephants tend to live in cooler jungles and therefore have little need for the massive flappers.
