Next up, after the gentle training work-out involving 1202 Sigiyian steps, came a trip to the Rock temples of Dambulla. Kumar had decided to stay on the bus but assured us the Temples were only a bit round the corner. Up and bleedin' up we went. The legs were compaining somewhat still from our earlier extertions.
The ascent was worth it as at the top is a monastery where five ancient caves have been impressively hewn into the rock-face. The reclining Buddha. Belly was needing a lie down too after that climb!
Inside the caves are many likenesses of the Buddha, Hindu gods and goddesses and also the last Kandyan king.
The caves look as though your are in an ornate cloth-draped tent- but the ceilings are actually painted.
Each monarch had done their bit to add more likenesses of the Buddha. Some brick, some wood and some carved from granite.
Cobra heid. Not terribly sure what it represents.
Group photo taken by our guide...
... before he went off for a rest in a tree.
Back down the hill, running a gauntlet of hawkers and beggars is the Golden Temple...
... with an impressive likeness of the Buddha.