The Habarana town serves as a base for Sigiriya and safaris to Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. There’s a fast-expanding range of accommodation in the surrounding area including lots of new luxury hotels, the Chaaya Village Habarana is the most luxury Sigirya hotel, which offers excellent service and quality and offers amazing views of the Sigiriya rock that can be enjoyed from the rooms at the hotel. Guests can enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan experience, with an authentic dining experience and guests relax and rejuvenate at the Ayuruvedha spa at the hotel, which will be a haven for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Located in the district of Matale, between Polnnaruwa and Habarana, 225 km away from Colombo, Wasgamuwa is the best place to observe Elephants. The nearest large town is Polonnaruwa, 10 km from the northern boundary. The best time to enjoy the sight of large herds is during November to May. In the rest of the year the elephants tend to migrate to nearby Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. Other wildlife includes Purple faced langur monkeys, wild boar, sambar and spotted deer and buffalo. Transport links are excellent: Habarana has the nearest train station to both Dambulla and Sigiriya and sits on a busy crossroads. Elephant rides around the tank can be arranged for a price of US$20 to US$30 per person per hour. In the creek near town you can watch mahouts scrubbing down their elephants; guides and most locals can point the way.
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