Sigiriya is roughly three hours from either Colombo or Negambo and is located in the middle of Sri Lanka. Sigiriya is a renowned tourist destination thanks to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a Buddhist monastery until the early 14th century. The palace ruin at Sigiriya dates back about 1600 years and is often considered to be among the most luxurious and extensive building endeavors ever undertaken in Sri Lanka.
Located on top of a massive 200-meter rock and surrounded by the ruins of a complex network of reservoirs, gardens, and other buildings, the rock is actually the last remnant of a long-since extinct volcano. Sigiriya is a unique attraction due to its stunning scenery, which features a flight of practically vertical stairs leading through some beautiful murals to a mountain that has the remains of an ancient society.
Listed below are some of Sigiriya’s most popular attractions:
1. Rock of Sigiriya (Aka Lion Rock)
Simply put, this is the top activity in all of Sigiriya. After spending a whole day gazing at it from our hotel balcony, we were more than ready to make the ascent. The event was not at all disappointing.
The spectacular Sigiriya Rock may be visited on a day trip from Colombo. It’s the top-rated activity in Sigiriya for a reason: visiting the temple is an unforgettable experience.
As visiting Sigiriya is by far the most usual thing to do there, I thought I’d answer some of the questions you might have about it.
This is the most unexpected aspect of Sigiriya Rock. Its production dates back roughly 2 billion years! An enormous mass of solidified lava that once filled a volcano has sealed it.
Volcanoes previously dotted the landscape, but they have since vanished. We are down to simply Sigiriya and Pidurangala Rocks.
Things to Do:
- Climb to the Top: Ascend the ancient staircases leading to the summit of Sigiriya, where you’ll find the ruins of King Kashyapa’s fortress and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Explore the Frescoes: Stop by the beautiful frescoes painted on the rock walls, showcasing vibrant depictions of women from ancient Sri Lankan culture.
- Visit the Lion’s Gate: Marvel at the massive stone paws that once guarded the entrance to the palace, symbolizing the power and grandeur of this historical site.
- Walk Through the Gardens: Stroll through the well-preserved Water Gardens, Boulder Gardens, and Terraced Gardens, each showcasing unique ancient landscaping techniques.
2. Pidurangala, or The Rock
You can’t overlook Pidurangala Rock because of its proximity to Sigiriya Rock. However, the structure itself is a remarkable sight.
It’s nearly as tall and has equally impressive vistas of the wooded landscape beyond.
A common itinerary includes an ascent of Sigiriya in the morning followed by a stroll up Pidurangala in time for sunset.
If you want to do them all in one day, that’s OK, but keep in mind that you’ll be wandering around in the heat of the day.
In comparison to Lion Rock, this is a more wallet-friendly option for watching the sunrise (although I do think you should visit both).
Things to Do:
- Hike Up for Sunrise or Sunset: A popular alternative to Sigiriya, Pidurangala Rock offers a rewarding, slightly challenging hike with breathtaking views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Enjoy Panoramic Views of Sigiriya: From the top, enjoy an unobstructed view of Lion Rock in the distance, creating an unforgettable photo opportunity.
- Visit the Reclining Buddha: Midway up the rock, you’ll encounter a large reclining Buddha statue, which is an important spiritual and cultural landmark.
- Connect with Nature: Pidurangala offers a quieter, less crowded experience, perfect for connecting with the surrounding nature and tranquility.
Read Also: Where to Visit in Sri Lanka During October
3. The Museum of Sigiriya
Both the Sigiriya Rock ticket office and the Sigiriya Archaeological Museum are located in the same building.
The cost of admission to the museum is $30, which includes museum admission.
You should check it out because it contains interesting details on the past of Sigiriya Citadel and the surrounding Lion Rock Fortress and ruins.
Before beginning your ascent, many people advise checking out the museum.
That way, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the sights along the trail and learn about the rock’s rich history.
Things to Do:
- Learn About Sigiriya’s History: The museum offers an extensive overview of the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Sigiriya, providing valuable context for your visit to the rock.
- Explore the Artefacts: Discover ancient artifacts, including pottery, tools, and other items used by the original inhabitants of Sigiriya.
- View Interactive Exhibits: The museum features interactive displays, models of the Sigiriya complex, and replicas of the frescoes, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the site’s grandeur.
- Understand the Engineering Marvel: Gain insight into the advanced engineering techniques used to build the rock fortress and its intricate water gardens.
4. Visit Minneriya National Park and See the Elephants!
A visit to Sri Lanka is guaranteed to yield many sightings of the island’s iconic elephants.
Day trips to Minneriya National Park are a must if seeing elephants is high on your list of things to do in Sigiriya.
During the dry season, large herds of elephants congregate there.
In addition to its famed avian population, it is home to a broad variety of other creatures.
The current entry fee per person is $15, and a day-long jeep safari is required to fully see the park.
The lower per-person costs are proportional to the number of attendees. And the hotel or hostel you stay at should be able to point you in the direction of a reliable local service.
Things to Do:
- Go on a Jeep Safari: Take a guided safari tour through Minneriya National Park to see elephants up close in their natural habitat.
- Witness the Elephant Gathering: During the dry season (July to October), witness the “Elephant Gathering,” where hundreds of elephants come to Minneriya’s reservoir.
- Spot Other Wildlife: In addition to elephants, look out for other wildlife like crocodiles, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.
- Enjoy Scenic Landscapes: The park offers beautiful views of lush forests, wetlands, and the Minneriya reservoir, ideal for nature photography.
5. Discover More About Kaudulla National Park
Kaudulla National Park is located close to Minneriya National Park.
It’s comparable to Sigiriya in that it’s one of the best places in the country to see birds and a popular tourist destination in its own right.
During the dry season, it is also a magnet for big herds of elephants.
Because you can never be sure of when or where these herds will be, going on two safaris instead of one is always a safe bet.
Things to Do:
- Safari Adventures: Like Minneriya, Kaudulla National Park offers jeep safaris, providing opportunities to see elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and other wildlife.
- Birdwatching: Kaudulla is known for its diverse birdlife, including painted storks, spot-billed pelicans, and black-headed ibises, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy beautiful landscapes of marshlands, grasslands, and the Kaudulla Reservoir, surrounded by lush greenery.
- Seasonal Elephant Migration: During certain months, elephants migrate between Minneriya and Kaudulla, making it a prime spot for elephant sightings.
6. Explore Sigiriya on Your Own with a Bike Ride
Since there is so much to see in Sigiriya, many tourists rent bicycles and ride about the site at their own pace.
It is not necessary to visit the actual site of Sigiriya in order to have a good time because much of the beauty of the area can be discovered in the countryside outside of it.
Your hostel or hotel might have complimentary bicycles you can use, so it’s worth asking about.
Things to Do:
- Discover Local Villages: Cycle through rural villages around Sigiriya to experience local life, meet villagers, and see traditional farming practices.
- Ride Through Lush Countryside: The scenic bike routes around Sigiriya allow you to enjoy lush landscapes, paddy fields, and serene lakes.
- Visit Lesser-Known Sites: A bike ride can lead you to smaller, lesser-known sites around Sigiriya, including smaller temples, local markets, and quiet areas.
- Stop for Sri Lankan Treats: Take a break at a local café or roadside stall to sample Sri Lankan snacks, fresh coconuts, and tea.
7. Take a Ride in a Hot Air Balloon!
One of the most unusual things to do in Sigiriya, ballooning in Sri Lanka is possible between November and April.
There are a number of local businesses who start their days by providing hot air balloon rides at daybreak.
The sunrise over the jungle canopy is breathtaking if you time it right.
Things to Do:
- Soar Over Sigiriya’s Landscapes: Take in the breathtaking aerial views of Sigiriya Rock, Pidurangala, and the surrounding forests and lakes from a hot air balloon.
- Experience a Unique Sunrise: For an unforgettable experience, opt for an early morning flight to watch the sunrise over Sigiriya and the central plains.
- Capture Stunning Photos: A hot air balloon ride offers unique photographic opportunities, allowing you to capture panoramic views from high above.
- Romantic Experience: Hot air ballooning is a peaceful, romantic activity, perfect for couples looking for a memorable adventure.
8. Try Out All That Polonnaruwa Has To Offer
The city of Polonnaruwa may be reached from Sigiriya in about an hour.
Guests staying in one location will likely make day trips to the other, as Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya are so interwoven.
The Parakrama Samudra, Gal Vihara, and Thivanka Image House are among the most well-known attractions in Polonnaruwa.
Assuming you get an early start, you can spend the day in Polonnaruwa and still make it back to Sigiriya in time for sunset.
Things to Do:
- Explore Ancient Ruins: Discover the ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, including temples, palaces, and royal baths, showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich history.
- Visit Gal Vihara: Admire the impressive Buddha statues carved into granite, one of the most iconic sights in Polonnaruwa.
- See the Parakrama Samudra: This massive reservoir, built by King Parakramabahu, is a testament to ancient engineering and is still a vital water source today.
- Rent a Bike: Polonnaruwa is bike-friendly, and cycling around the ancient city allows you to explore its various sites at your own pace.
9. The Temple in the Cave of Dambulla
Even if there isn’t much to see or do in Dambulla, it’s still worth the trip.
Our visit was for a full day and night, but a quick stopover is also an option.
The trip from Dambulla to Sigiriya shouldn’t take more than an hour.
How do you spend your time there? Of course, you should see the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Uniquely, it is home to a collection of cave temples that are themselves home to more than a hundred Buddha sculptures, each of which has been painstakingly sculpted and kept to look as though it were made yesterday.
In all, there are five caves, and each one is decorated in a different way.
Hiring a tour guide is an excellent idea.
They offer tours for roughly 1,000 LKR, during which they will enlighten you on the amazing historical significance of the location.
Things to Do:
- Admire the Cave Paintings: The Dambulla Cave Temple is filled with ancient frescoes and wall paintings that depict scenes from Buddha’s life and Sri Lankan history.
- Explore Five Caves: Each of the five caves has its own set of Buddha statues, stupas, and religious artifacts, making it a unique and spiritual experience.
- Panoramic Viewpoint: After exploring the caves, enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding countryside from the top of Dambulla Rock.
- Discover Buddhist Heritage: This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist temples, offering insights into the country’s spiritual heritage.
10. Visit Anuradhapura for the Day
If you plan on spending your entire trip in Sigiriya, you should see these three attractions in Sri Lanka.
Anuradhapura is one of the most beautiful cities in Sri Lanka and also one of the most historically significant. Particularly, Mihintale.
It is one of Sri Lanka’s former capitals and is home to some of the country’s oldest and best-preserved temples and other architectural marvels.
If you have your own transportation, a visit to the Old City and all of its attractions will only set you back $25.
Things to Do:
- Discover Ancient Stupas: Visit sacred stupas like Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and Abhayagiri, which are some of the tallest brick structures in the ancient world.
- See the Sacred Bodhi Tree: The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura is said to be a sapling from the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, making it an important pilgrimage site.
- Explore Royal Palaces and Monasteries: Discover the remnants of ancient palaces, monastic complexes, and reservoirs that highlight Anuradhapura’s status as a former royal capital.
- Soak in the Spiritual Ambiance: As a major religious center, Anuradhapura’s serene atmosphere is ideal for reflection and offers an authentic experience of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.
Explore Sri Lanka to learn more:
- 10 Popular Sri Lanka Places to See in December
- 10 Places & Things To Do in Sri Lanka In August
- Sri Lanka’s 5 Most Famous Hill Stations to Visit
- 10 Most Famous Wildlife Places in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka Yoga Retreats and Wellness Center
- Top 9 Festivals Celebrated in Sri Lanka
- 10 Popular Historical Attractions in Colombo
- Sri Lanka Tourist Places to Visit in January
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is Sigiriya famous for?
Sigiriya is famous for the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as the “Lion Rock”, which is an ancient palace and UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful frescoes and landscaped gardens.
2. How do I reach the Sigiriya Rock Fortress?
Sigiriya can be reached from Colombo by train, bus, or taxi, with a drive time of about 4 hours. The nearest major town is Dambulla.
3. What are the must-see attractions in Sigiriya?
The main attractions are the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Lion’s Paw entrance, Mirror Wall, Frescoes, and Water Gardens.
4. Is there an entry fee for Sigiriya Rock Fortress?
Yes, there is an entry fee for international tourists, usually around $30 USD. Local rates may vary.
5. What are the Sigiriya Rock Fortress visiting hours?
The fortress is open from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. It’s best to start early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
6. How long does it take to climb Sigiriya Rock?
The climb generally takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on fitness level, with stops to admire the views and attractions along the way.
7. What other nearby attractions can I visit in Sigiriya?
Nearby attractions include the Pidurangala Rock (for panoramic views of Sigiriya), Dambulla Cave Temple, and the Sigiriya Museum.
8. When is the best time to visit Sigiriya?
The best time to visit is from December to April when the weather is drier and more pleasant for climbing and sightseeing.
9. Is Pidurangala Rock worth visiting?
Yes, Pidurangala Rock is popular for its stunning view of Sigiriya Rock and is a less crowded, affordable alternative for hikers.
10. What should I bring when visiting Sigiriya Rock?
Bring plenty of water, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. The climb is exposed to the sun, so staying hydrated and protected is important.
