Habarana - wild lovers paradise

Habarana is famous among tourists and locals alike because of the safari rides to the nearby Habarana national park which has a huge population of Elephants. Another reason it is very popular among tourists is because of the luxurious nature friendly hotels in Habarana. Habarana is full of Elephants and this is one of the best places to go on Elephant back rides as well. Another important thing about Habarana is its unique location, it is very near to two world heritages sites ( Sigiriya and Dambulla rock temple ), two other world heritages sites ( Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa ) are only one hours drive and there are quite a few National parks near as well. So its a great location for history lovers and nature lovers. The Elephant population in the nearby national parks are not that used to humans and there are frequent Elephant attacks, so it is a nice place to visit for people who are looking for that extra excitement as well.

Habarana is more renowned for lodges, there are plenty of lodges located inside the park and near the park border. Some of them has build in tree houses so you can view Elephants and other wild animals in a in a relatively safe manner. That being said there are plenty of high class hotels in the area as well. Cinnamon Lodge , Chaya village and Habarana rest house being few of them. But if you are looking for an luxurious stay then the world renowned Kandalama hotel in Dambulla is just 20 minutes drive away from Habarana. Dambulla also houses Amaya Lake hotel , another luxurious hotel. The picture shows us relaxing inside a lodge. This lodge was bordering the Minneriya National park and had a nice tree house with some beds so we can spend the night watching wild life.More about Hotels in Habarana Sri Lanka

The "Elephant Hole", a famous Elephant bathing spot. You will find plenty of Elephants here during the day

Elephant back rides are very popular among tourists and there are plenty of tamed elephants at Habarana where you can enjoy an Elephant back ride. It is a great way to go on safaris as well, because no other animal attacks and Elephant

Habarana is very famous for safari rides and you can hire a jeep for about 3000 - 5000 Sri Lankan Rupees.

The video below shows the elephant attack that occurred in our trip , Habarana is notorious for elephant attacked and experienced drivers can help reduce the risk , you'll realize there worth when an elephant starts chasing you :)