I insisted we stay near Mihintale rather than the 'more-often-trod-by-tourists' city of Anuradhapura. I remembered it from our trip here nine years ago. The really important religious and cultural sites take a little effort to see. This morning started with a long climb up to the temples on the nearby mountain. We got started before any other tourists and there weren't too many anyway. There was a great deal of rain last night while we were sleeping. That meant the rocks weren't hot but the air was a little muggy. We must have spent at least three hours.
After coming back down, we immediately got on a bus for Anuradhapura for lunch. It is about 15 km and takes a half an hour. Over the years we have done the cultural area several times, but Jay wanted to again visit the ancient Sri Maha Bodhi. Some of the original tree in which the Buddha attained enlightenment is there. It came from India and has been growing here for more than 1700 years.
I might be a little sore tomorrow but a little wiser. I honestly feel as though I have a better understanding of the world, of the rise and fall of empires, of permanent change, of many enduring values, and of the strengths and weaknesses of humans. Some people may do enough 'nine to fives' to be able to buy a new car every few years, but in the end that all amounts to absolutely nothing. I am thankful for knowledge and the chance grasp some bits of it. Do you think your university credits really make you more cognizant of how the world works?