If you’re visiting the Habarana, Sigiriya, or Dambulla area and want to experience something genuine and peaceful, the Hiriwadunna Village Tour is something you shouldn’t miss. It’s not just a tour—it’s a slow, relaxing few hours where you step into the everyday life of a traditional Sri Lankan village.
A Journey That Begins with a Bullock Cart Ride
Your adventure begins with a bullock cart ride, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest forms of transport. Pulled by two gentle bulls, the cart takes you along a narrow path through paddy fields and small forest patches. It’s a calm, scenic ride that gives you your first real feel of village life—away from the noise of cities and traffic.
A Peaceful Catamaran Ride on the Lake
Next comes one of the most beautiful parts of the tour—a catamaran ride across a quiet lake. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees, with the occasional birdcall echoing through the air. On clear days, you can even spot the majestic Sigiriya and Pidurangala rocks in the distance.
While gliding across the water, the boatman may surprise you by weaving a hat or necklace out of lotus stems or palm leaves. It’s simple and peaceful—exactly what makes this tour so special.
Strolling Through the Village and Fields
Once you reach the far side of the lake, it’s time for a slow walk through rice fields, vegetable gardens, and little village paths. Along the way, you’ll see how local farmers grow their crops, tend to their land, and live off what they cultivate. It’s a gentle and eye-opening experience that connects you directly with the rhythm of village life.
Visit a Traditional Village Home
This is where the tour becomes more personal. You’ll be welcomed into a local villager’s home, where you’ll get to see how meals are prepared using traditional methods—on clay stoves, with fresh garden ingredients. You’ll learn how to make coconut sambol, roti, dhal curry, and more. If you’re up for it, you can even help cook!
You’ll also see how they use old tools to separate rice, or how they weave coconut leaves for roofing. Everything is hands-on and very real—nothing feels staged.
A Freshly Cooked Meal on Lotus Leaves
After all the cooking, it’s time to sit down and enjoy a delicious homemade meal, served on lotus leaves in the most natural way. You’ll taste rice, several curries, fried lake fish, and maybe even a sweet local dessert or a herbal drink. It’s one of the freshest, most wholesome meals you’ll have on your trip.
A Glimpse Into a Different Way of Life
The best part of this tour is the people. The villagers are warm, welcoming, and full of stories. You’re not just a tourist—you’re treated like a guest. You’ll get to explore the area around their home, climb a simple treehouse used to protect crops, and even learn about traditional farming and tools.