Sigiriya

A timeless ancient fortress rising above lush jungle plains, Sigiriya is known for its dramatic rock citadel, ancient frescoes, landscaped gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views.

It is the rock fortress the world sometimes refers to as the Eighth Wonder. Sigiriya rock towering 200m rises above the thick jungle in the central plains of Sri Lanka. Its caves sheltered Buddhist monastic monks during the 3rd century. It was made into the impressive fortress by King Kashyapa in the 5th century, who sought protection from enemy forces. It is the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. A colossal lion figure stood at the entrance leading up to galleries and staircases, of which, only the paws remain. The top of the rock, strewn with palace ruins, provides vistas across the misty forests and hills that surround

Hidden Gems

Pidurangala Rock is a unique nearby hike to admire Sigiriya from afar.
Pidurangala Vihara is an ancient Buddhist temple at the base of the Rock.
Cobra Hood Cave in the Boulder Garden resembles a cobra hood.
Dakinigiriya Vihara is a little-visited ruined monastery that has a lake and caves.
Sigiri Art Gallery sells paintings, commissioned artwork, traditional masks, and textiles.

Best Times to Visit

October to December is Sigiriya’s wettest season. Early morning or late afternoon climbs are the best

Weather

Top Attractions

It has several large boulders connected by winding pathways. The garden extends from the northern slopes to the southern slopes at the foot of the Rock.

Boulder Garden

These form a series of terraces from the pathways of the Boulder Gardens to the Rock’s entrance. Bricks and limestone make up the garden construction.

Terraced Gardens

The museum’s exhibits include excavated artifacts and replicas of parts of the Rock. Its atrium frames the stunning view of the actual Rock.

Sigiriya Museum

This polished wall features ancient visitor inscriptions and poems that date back to the 8th century, often praising the murals and the fortress.

Mirror Wall Graffiti

The grounds of Sigiriya consist of a series of water gardens, which are still functional. These include curved tanks, bathing pools, and little islands

Water Gardens

Sigiriya Frescoes These colourful murals located in the sheer rock face, depicting beautiful maidens holding flowers, used to cover the whole western wall. Sigiriya Museum Sigiriya Museum The museum’s exhibits include excavated artifacts and replicas of parts of the Rock. Its atrium frames the stunning view of the actual Rock.