Have you ever dreamed of visiting a destination that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure? If yes, then you should definitely consider Habarana, a small village in the heart of Sri Lanka. Habarana is a hidden gem that has something for everyone, whether you are looking for a relaxing or a thrilling vacation. From wildlife safaris to hiking, from boating to heritage sites, Habarana will not disappoint you.
Habarana is located in the Anuradhapura District of Sri Lanka, about 180 km from the capital city of Colombo. It has a tropical climate, with an average temperature of 27°C and a high rainfall from October to January. Habarana has a population of about 5000 people, who mainly depend on agriculture and tourism for their livelihood. Habarana is also known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and heritage sites, which attract thousands of visitors every year.
In this article, we will explore the best things to do and see in Habarana, and why you should visit this hidden gem on your next trip to Sri Lanka.
Natural Beauty
Habarana is blessed with abundant natural beauty, which can be enjoyed in various ways. One of the best ways to appreciate the scenery of Habarana is by taking a boat ride on the Habarana Lake, which is one of the prime attractions of the village. The lake is an artificial reservoir that was created by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD, and is now a source of irrigation and fishing for the local people. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the Pidurangala Rock and the Sigiriya Lion Rock.
The lake is also a haven for birdwatchers, as it attracts a variety of migratory and resident birds, such as pelicans, storks, herons, egrets, and kingfishers. A boat ride on the lake will give you a chance to admire the scenery, observe the wildlife, and experience the local culture and lifestyle. A boat ride on the lake costs around 1500 LKR (about 8 USD) per person, and lasts for about an hour. The lake is open from sunrise to sunset, and can be reached by a short walk or a tuk-tuk ride from the Habarana town center.
Tip: The best time to visit the lake is in the early morning or the late afternoon, when the light is soft and the birds are more active.
Another way to enjoy the natural beauty of Habarana is by hiking to the top of the Pidurangala Rock, which is a rock formation near Sigiriya. The hike is about 2 km long, and takes about 45 minutes to reach the summit. The hike is moderately challenging, as it involves some steep and slippery sections, and requires some scrambling over boulders. However, the reward is worth the effort, as you will be greeted by panoramic views of the surroundings and the Sigiriya Lion Rock.
The Pidurangala Rock is also a historical and religious site, as it houses a Buddhist temple and a large reclining Buddha statue. The temple is said to date back to the 1st century BC, and was used by the monks who lived in the caves. The entry fee to the Pidurangala Rock is 500 LKR (about 3 USD) per person, and the site is open from 6 am to 6 pm. Tip: The best time to visit the Pidurangala Rock is in the early morning or the late afternoon, when the temperature is cooler and the crowds are smaller.
Wildlife
Habarana is also a great place to see the wildlife of Sri Lanka, especially the elephants. Habarana is home to the Hurulu Forest Reserve, which is a forest reserve that is famous for its large population of wild elephants. The reserve covers an area of about 10,000 hectares, and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka. The reserve is also home to other animals and birds, such as deer, monkeys, leopards, crocodiles, peacocks, and eagles. The best way to see the wildlife of the reserve is by taking a jeep safari tour, which can be arranged by the Hurulu Eco Park, which is the entrance to the reserve.

A jeep safari tour costs around 6000 LKR (about 32 USD) per person, and lasts for about 3 hours. The tour will take you through the forest, the grasslands, and the wetlands, where you will have a chance to spot the animals and birds in their natural habitat. The tour will also stop at a watering hole, where you will see the elephants drinking, bathing, and playing. The reserve is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and can be reached by a 15-minute drive from the Habarana town center. Tip: The best time to visit the reserve is from January to March, when the dry season attracts more elephants to the watering hole.
Heritage
Habarana is also a gateway to some of the most important heritage sites of Sri Lanka, such as the Sigiriya Lion Rock and the Dambulla Cave Temple. The Sigiriya Lion Rock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ancient fortress and temple complex, that dates back to the 5th century AD. The rock is about 200 meters high, and is shaped like a lion’s head. The rock was built by King Kashyapa, who made it his capital and his palace. The rock is famous for its architecture, frescoes, gardens, and views.

The rock can be climbed by a series of stairs and platforms, which pass through the lion’s paws, the mirror wall, the fresco gallery, and the summit. The climb is challenging but rewarding, as you will be able to admire the craftsmanship, the paintings, and the scenery from the top. The entry fee to the Sigiriya Lion Rock is 4500 LKR (about 24 USD) per person, and the site is open from 7 am to 5 pm. The rock can be reached by a 20-minute drive from the Habarana town center. Tip: The best time to visit the rock is in the early morning or the late afternoon, when the temperature is cooler and the crowds are smaller.
The Dambulla Cave Temple is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Buddhist temple complex, that dates back to the 1st century BC. The temple consists of five caves, which contain over 150 statues and paintings of Buddha and other deities. The temple is one of the most sacred and oldest sites of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, and is still in use by the monks and the pilgrims.
The temple can be reached by a 15-minute walk up a hill, which offers panoramic views of the surroundings. The entry fee to the Dambulla Cave Temple is 1500 LKR (about 8 USD) per person, and the site is open from 7 am to 7 pm. The temple can be reached by a 30-minute drive from the Habarana town center. Tip: The best time to visit the temple is in the morning or the evening, when the light is better and the atmosphere is more serene.
Adventure
Habarana is also a destination for adventure seekers, who can enjoy various activities and experiences in and around the village. One of the most popular activities is the hot air balloon ride, which is offered by the Sri Lanka Balloon, which is a licensed and experienced operator. The hot air balloon ride will take you over the Habarana Lake, the Pidurangala Rock, the Sigiriya Lion Rock, and the surrounding countryside, where you will enjoy a bird’s eye view of the landscape and the wildlife. The hot air balloon ride is a thrilling and romantic experience, and is suitable for all ages and occasions.
The hot air balloon ride costs around 20,000 LKR (about 107 USD) per person, and lasts for about an hour. The ride is available from November to April, and departs from the Habarana town center. Tip: The best time to take the hot air balloon ride is in the early morning, when the weather is calm and the sunrise is spectacular.
Another activity that you can enjoy in Habarana is the cricket match at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, which is a cricket stadium that is located in a scenic setting, near the Dambulla Cave Temple. The stadium is one of the most modern and well-equipped stadiums in Sri Lanka, and hosts international and domestic cricket matches throughout the year.
The stadium has a capacity of 30,000 spectators, and offers a great atmosphere and entertainment for cricket fans. The stadium is also known for its unique design, which blends with the natural environment and the cultural heritage of the area. The stadium can be reached by a 40-minute drive from the Habarana town center.
Tip: The best way to get tickets for the cricket match is to book online in advance, or to buy them at the stadium on the day of the match.
Where to Stay in Habarana
If you are looking for the best places to stay in Habarana, you should consider the 5-star hotels and resorts that offer luxury, comfort, and convenience. Here are some of the best options for you:

Cinnamon Lodge Habarana:
This is a 5-star resort that lies sprawled across 27 acres of resplendent beauty, shielded by over 1700 tall trees, surrounded by three nature reserves. The resort offers 137 rooms and suites that are aesthetically designed and located on the ground and first floor level of chalet type accommodation. The resort also features a swimming pool, a spa, a gym, a tennis court, a library, and a butterfly garden. The resort has four dining options, including a fine dining restaurant, a buffet restaurant, a pool bar, and a lounge bar.
The resort is located at the heart of Sri Lanka’s world famous cultural triangle, where you can easily access the attractions such as the Sigiriya Lion Rock, the Dambulla Cave Temple, and the Hurulu Forest Reserve. The resort is about 180 km from the Colombo International Airport, and can be reached by a 4-hour drive or a 30-minute flight. The resort offers airport transfers, car rentals, and tour packages for your convenience.
To book a stay at this property click here.
The Other Corner:
This is a 5-star hotel that is nestled in the midst of a forest, overlooking a lake and a paddy field. The hotel offers 12 rooms and 2 suites that are spacious and elegant, with wooden furniture and natural fabrics. The hotel also features a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel is located close to the Habarana Lake, where you can enjoy boat rides, fishing, and birdwatching.
The hotel is also near the Pidurangala Rock, the Sigiriya Lion Rock, and the Hurulu Forest Reserve, where you can enjoy hiking, wildlife safaris, and heritage tours. The hotel is about 180 km from Colombo International Airport, and can be reached by a 4-hour drive or a 30-minute flight.
To book a stay at this property click here.
Habarana Village by Cinnamon:
This is another 5-star resort that is part of the Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts chain. The resort is inspired by the typical thatched roof huts found locally, and lies in clusters with low roofs and brownish yellow exteriors. The resort offers 108 rooms and suites that are cozy and comfortable, with modern amenities and private balconies. The resort also features a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, a kids club, and a mini golf course.
The resort has two dining options, including a buffet restaurant and a bar. The resort is situated near the Habarana Lake, where you can enjoy boat rides, fishing, and birdwatching. The resort is also close to the Pidurangala Rock, where you can hike to the top and enjoy panoramic views. The resort is about 176 km from the Colombo International Airport, and can be reached by a 4-hour drive or a 30-minute flight.
To book a stay at this property click here.
Habarana is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. From wildlife safaris to hiking, from boating to heritage sites, from hot air balloon rides to cricket matches, Habarana has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing or a thrilling vacation, Habarana will not disappoint you.
Habarana is waiting for you. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover this paradise for nature and culture lovers.