Sri Lanka - Day 3

Up at 6am for a 7am start - some bloody holiday this is. Bundhu advised this was the best time to climb Sigriya rock fortress, and begrudgingly he was right as the German tour groups hadn't made it yet and the heat wasn't too stifling. After lots of steps we made it to the top, savouring stunning views. Back to the hotel by midday for a few hours rest, then out for lunch. We told Bundhu we wanted to go somewhere 'local' and get some snacks like samosas - so we ended up at two restaurants, both full of German tour groups, and both offering buffets.... We think this is what Bundhu thinks tourists want, and he's not quite ready for the rebellious independent streak that myself and J started to show!

Anyway we ended up getting a take away curry from the last tourist establishment, which we ended up eating in the back of an open air jeep, which was to take us on a safari around Minneriya National Park. It was excellent, with us seeing umpteen elephants, water buffalo, storks, herons, pelicans and more. With the lush green plains and lake you could have been in Kenya. Great.

Back to the hotel, by which time it was dark. Bundhu provided more entertainment by being stopped by the police for speeding, and had to pay an on the spot fine. I think he was mortified and embarrassed, but we tried to make light of it.

Buffet for dinner again, but this time sat outside under lit torches, and had much better (warm) food as we knew which items to go for this time. A very pleasant meal.