Today we visited Dambulla which is the largest and best preserved cave complex in Sri Lanka. The painting and statues inside the caves were painted by monks of Buddhism over a period of 2000 years. On our 2 hour drive to Ratna village we had a sitting of bull elephant grazing near the road. Arriving at Ratna village we were invited by a local family to share a traditional meal. Following this we walked to a spectacular 30 metre waterfall which lies deep in the jungle. After our hot hike we were so pleased to jump into the refreshing cool ponds of the waterfall.
Returning to the village we were invited to learn from the art of pottery. What better way than to be taught by an 82 year old villager and her 52 year old son. Further on to the next house we were taught the art of Pan Padru which translated to “reed mat” which is a staple in every rural household in Sri Lanka. It takes 1 month to weave a mat using reeds harvested from the land. Today was packed with a fabulous mix of activities.
