Get an early start on the first day and hop in an air-conditioned vehicle around 6 am with your experienced driver guide. Head first to the stunning Golden Temple of Dambulla, a cave temple complex built in the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Check out the giant golden Buddha Statue just outside the cave complex as well as the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King, and the Cave of the Great New Monastery.  Then journey to Minneriya National Park for a jeep safari that will give you a chance to witness the largest gathering of Asian elephants on earth. See hundreds of elephants congregating around Minneriya Lake during the dry season between May and October. In addition to the elephants, spot a number of other native mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in the scrublands, forests, and other areas. After the safari, head to the hotel, check in, and relax. After a relaxed breakfast, check out of the hotel and head to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, built in the 5th century AD for King Kaspaya. Walk through the elaborately-carved entrance framed by the paws of a lion (appropriately named "Lion Rock"). View the beautiful, unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns, and walk through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past. Then visit a local village in Sigiriya and immerse yourself in Sri Lankan village life. Go on an oxen cart ride and experience the village farmer's point of view. Boat across a calm lake by catamaran and walk through golden fields ripe with the harvest of the paddy. Watch a traditional cooking demonstration that teaches you the basics of Sri Lankan cuisine. Treat your tastebuds with a home cooked lunch made over a wood-fire and served on a bed of fragrant lotus leaves. Afterwards, get dropped off back at your accommodation.