A boy in a 3-wheel arrived promptly and we were on the road to Sigiriya by 7:50 am. It was 19 kilometres away. Phew, what a climb! It's a serious hike and not for those who are afraid of heights. It took around 1.5 hours to climb, view, and descend. What an amazing place to put a king's palace! On the way up, it's possible to view the famous Sigiriya Girls in the frescos.
Then, as my cultural triangle ticket book had ones --- we went to Ritigala. It's an ancient Buddhist monastery located partway up the highest mountain in the district. The road there was much further than expected. The way was partly bad tar and, the rest, washboard dirt! We gave RS 300 for a guide who walked with us up a fantastic ancient sidewalk. The stones were so precise that it puts to shame most modern construction. Coming back we ate and the 18-year old 3-wheel driver was surprised that we offered him a free, late lunch too. We made it back to the hotel a total of 105 K later and at around 3:45 pm.
This has been a very memorable day!