Sigiriya and the nearby attractions are a blend of nature, tradition and history. The popular Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a great place to start the day. Its most famous features are the enormous lion paws at the entrance, the intriguing frescoes halfway up the rock and the remains of a former palace. Another UNESCO World Heritage site that tells engrossing tales is the Dambulla Cave Temples, where you can marvel at the exquisite statues and artwork. Learn about the cultivation of the tropical herbs and spices used in everyday cooking during a guided tour of a Matale spice garden. Finish your day with an exciting jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, which is home to one of Asia’s largest elephant populations. Seeing those amazing creatures in their natural habitat will be an experience that stays with you forever.