Habarana - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Habarana

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Habarana, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Habarana and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Habarana, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Habarana for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Habarana

Habarana is a small town located in the Anuradhapura district of Sri Lanka. It is a popular destination among tourists due to its proximity to several noteworthy attractions. Habarana is famous for its wildlife parks such as Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Hurulu Eco Park, which are home to various species of elephants, leopards, and other animals. The town also serves as a base camp for visitors who want to explore the ancient ruins of the nearby cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya. Additionally, Habarana is known for its scenic beauty, which includes lush vegetation, man-made lakes, and flowing rivers.

What to visit in Habarana

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Habarana, Sri Lanka, along with some information about each one: 1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress - Sigiriya Rock Fortress is an ancient palace and fortress complex situated on top of a towering rock formation. It is one of Sri Lanka's most famous cultural landmarks and contains a range of frescoes, gardens, and water features.
2. Minneriya National Park - Minneriya National Park is a protected reserve that is home to a range of indigenous species, including elephants, leopards, and deer. Visitors can take guided jeep safaris around the park to observe and photograph wildlife.
3. Habarana Lake - Habarana Lake is a picturesque freshwater lake that is popular among tourists for boating, birdwatching, and fishing. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the lake is a tranquil spot for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.
4. Pidurangala Rock - Pidurangala Rock is a lesser-known but just as spectacular rock formation in Habarana. Visitors can climb to the top for beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Dambulla Cave Temple - The Dambulla Cave Temple is a series of cave temples that have been carved into a giant rock formation. Inside, visitors can see a collection of ancient Buddha statues, frescoes, and inscriptions.
6. Kaudulla National Park - Kaudulla National Park is another popular wildlife reserve that is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, deer, and wild boar. Visitors can take guided jeep safaris to explore the park and observe the animals in their natural habitats.
7. Ritigala Forest Monastery - Ritigala Forest Monastery is a sprawling ancient complex that is nestled within a dense forest. Visitors can explore the ruins of the monastery, which include a range of buildings, water tanks, and ancient pathways.
Overall, Habarana offers a range of cultural, natural, and historical attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Habarana.

When to go on holiday to Habarana

The best time to visit Habarana in Sri Lanka is between the months of June to August and December to January. During these months, the weather is typically dry and sunny with lower chances of rainfall. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as safari tours, nature walks, and visiting ancient historic sites. It is important to note that Sri Lanka experiences a monsoon season between May and September, with the heaviest rainfall usually occurring in October and November. Therefore, it is important to plan your trip accordingly to avoid any potential weather-related disruptions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Habarana

There are a few ways to get to Habarana, Sri Lanka: 1. By Car: You can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Habarana. It takes approximately 4-5 hours from the capital city of Colombo.
2. By Bus: You can take a local bus from the Colombo Fort bus station to Habarana. The journey takes around 5-6 hours. 3. By Train: There is no direct train service to Habarana. You can take a train from Colombo to the nearby cities of Anuradhapura or Polonnaruwa and take a bus or taxi from there to reach Habarana.
4. By Private Transfer: Many travel agencies offer private transfer services from the airport or any other location in Sri Lanka to Habarana. Before heading to Habarana, make sure to check the travel restrictions and guidelines due to COVID-19.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Habarana, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Habarana

Here are some typical foods of Habarana, Sri Lanka along with a short description for each of them: 1. Kottu Roti - This is a popular Sri Lankan dish made with roti, vegetables, egg, and meat (chicken or beef). The ingredients are chopped and mixed together on a hot grill while being fried over high heat.
2. Hoppers (Appa) - Hoppers or Appa are bowl-shaped pancakes made of fermented rice flour and coconut milk. It's served as a breakfast or dinner food item with dal or coconut sambal.
3. Lamprais - Lamprais is a Dutch-influenced Sri Lankan dish made up of rice, meatballs, curry, sambal (chilli paste), and ash plantain. The ingredients are wrapped and baked in a banana leaf, giving it a unique flavor.
4. Polos - It is a popular local dish prepared from jackfruit and coconut milk. The jackfruit is boiled, and then mixed with a variety of spices and coconut milk. Polos is typically served with rice and other curry dishes.
5. Wambatu Moju - Wambatu Moju is an aubergine/eggplant pickle which is made with a mixture of vinegar, chilli, garlic, sugar and mustard seeds. It can be served alongside a variety of Sri Lankan dishes as a tangy condiment.
6. Fish Ambul Thiyal - Fish Ambul Thiyal is a popular seafood dish in Habarana that is made with chunks of fish cooked in a sour, spicy, and tangy sauce made up of tamarind, cinnamon and chillies.
7. Gotu Kola Salad - Gotu Kola Salad is made up of leaves of the gotu kola plant mixed with freshly grated coconut, onions, tomatoes, green chillies and other spices. It is generally regarded as a healthy dish and is popular throughout Sri Lanka.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Habarana an expensive destination for tourists?

Habarana is generally considered a mid-range to budget-friendly destination for tourists in Sri Lanka. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, so there are options for every budget. The cost of food and transportation is also relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations in the country. However, prices can vary depending on the time of year and the level of luxury you are looking for. Overall, Habarana is a great destination for those looking to experience the beauty and culture of Sri Lanka without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Habarana

Habarana is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka, known for its access to many cultural and natural attractions. Therefore, it is best to find accommodations close to the city center or the main road, as there are plenty of options available. Some popular areas for accommodation in Habarana include Habarana Town, Dambulla Road, and the areas around Habarana Lake. These areas offer easy access to the cultural sites like Sigiriya, Dambulla Cave Temple, and Anuradhapura, as well as the natural attractions like Minneriya National Park and Kaudulla National Park.
You can check hotel prices at Habarana here:
Booking.com

Is Habarana a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Habarana is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Sri Lanka. However, it is always important to take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving your valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings while exploring the area. It is also advisable to follow any local rules or customs, and to be respectful of the local culture. Additionally, it can be helpful to research any recent safety concerns or travel advisories before your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Habarana.

What type of travelers will enjoy Habarana the most?

Habarana in Sri Lanka is a popular destination for all kinds of travelers. However, it is particularly suitable for nature lovers, especially families with children, who would enjoy exploring the nearby national parks such as Minneriya and Kaudulla. These parks provide an opportunity to witness the largest Asian elephant gathering in the world. Couples seeking a romantic getaway would find this place serene and peaceful with plenty of opportunities for adventure. They can enjoy a relaxing stay in luxurious accommodations amidst the beautiful scenery and engage in activities like hot air ballooning, bird watching, and cultural tours. Moreover, young people looking for adventure and thrill would also enjoy this place as they can indulge in activities like rock climbing, nature walks, and safaris.
In short, Habarana in Sri Lanka is a place that offers something for everyone, from adventure and relaxation to cultural exploration and wildlife sightings.

How to get around Habarana

In Habarana, the most common forms of transportation are tuk-tuks and rented bicycles. Tuk-tuks are readily available and can be used to get around town, visit nearby attractions, and travel to other towns. Rented bicycles are also a popular option for exploring the surrounding area, and some accommodations offer free bike rentals to guests. Additionally, private or shared taxis can be hired for longer journeys or to get to specific destinations.

What to see around Habarana

Certainly! Here are a few nice places to visit in a day trip from Habarana: 1. Sigiriya - a UNESCO World Heritage Site containing the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya.
2. Dambulla Cave Temple - another UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of a cave complex with various ancient Buddhist statues and paintings.
3. Minneriya National Park - home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and various bird species. 4. Polonnaruwa - a former royal capital of Sri Lanka, now home to various historic ruins and temples. 5. Anuradhapura - another ancient capital of Sri Lanka, containing various historic buildings, temples, and archaeological sites. All of these destinations can be visited in a day trip from Habarana, but you may want to prioritize based on your interests and time constraints.
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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