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14/11/2013
Went on a day trip to Sigiriya today with the Japanese dude Yasu, to see the Sigiriya Rock. We got the bus at half 7. The buses are much nicer here, not the actual rust buckets of India, they have windows and are much more powerful. With this comes some crazy CRAZY driving! Our driver was going like a man possessed, and was not happy unless he was overtaking, or at least setting up such move. The horn is also a mainstay of Sri Lanka, if not more so. Took about 3 and a half hours. Had to stop once as a tree had fallen on the road and some people with chainsaws were busy cutting it up.
Then there it was, one almighty rock just sitting there, as if dumped from outer space. Looked like some giant spaceship just waiting. We got off the bus and a casual elephant walked past the road. Yasu sorted some accommodation out as he was stopping the night here (which I should have done also looking back instead of returning).
We paid 3900rs for our ticket, $30!!!!! Ouch! Was worth it though I guess… if you wanna play you gotta pay. We had a look round a rubbish museum first, then made for the rock. Lots and lots of steps to the top. There were a big gang of monkeys half way. Just before the top is staircase which has two giant lions paws either side made of stone. Reached the top and the views were magnificent.
Got some grub in a local place after. The restaurant wall was covered in messages from guests from all over the planet. It only made sense to leave a message. Instead of praising the curry as most did, mine read…. "The Mackem Moocher was here 14/11/2013. We beat the scum 2-1. FTM"….. just in case any wandering Geordie just so happened to be in the area.
Got a really slow bus back to a place called Dharambulla, then had to change. Wasn't any direct busses going back unfortunately! Got some snacks from the local shop next to the hotel and had a good craic on with the owner. Told me he used to be good friends with Tony Blair's father, Christopher, as apparently he was a civil servant here during the British reign. Found a big cockroach in my room on the night…. Little company I guess atleast.
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