Sithulpawwa, Sri Lanka.

The Pilgrims rest.

The stupa on the rock.

Some boulders near the entrance to the site.

The entrance to the site. Note the iron girders fencing the area to prevent wild elephants entering the area.

We took a night out at the 'Sirimavo Bandaranaike Pilgrims rest' at Sithulpawwa to see the famous shrine. Microlithic tools used by Homo sapiens has been found nearby and dated about 120,000 years from the present era. Sithulpawwa itself has existed as a human habitation 2200 years before the present era.

'Southern Highway', exit at Mathara, Sri Lanka.

Sights 'Southern Expressway', Sri Lanka.

Sights along the 'Southern Expressway', Sri Lanka.

Sights along the 'Southern Expressway', Sri Lanka.

If you are driving you will miss the sights. The smooth run from Kottawa to Mathara takes 2 hrs 30 mins including a stop over of 30 mins for refreshments in the service area. The constant drone of the engine will make you sleepy but if you are alert you will see scenes of everyday country life on either side of the expressway. Clear blue skies and clear country air without air-conditioning and windows open will meet you.