Sigiriya
The Lion Rock - an ancient royal fortress and palace built atop a sheer 200-metre rock rising from the jungle, with frescoes, water gardens and giant lion paws, a UNESCO wonder.
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UNESCO World Heritage
Sigiriya, the Lion Rock, is the most spectacular sight in Sri Lanka, an ancient royal citadel and pleasure palace built in the fifth century atop a sheer column of rock rising some 180 metres from the surrounding jungle. Climbed by a series of stairways past ancient frescoes of celestial maidens and a mirror wall, and through the giant carved paws of a once-colossal lion, it is crowned by palace ruins with breathtaking views, set above beautiful water gardens, a UNESCO wonder.
What you actually see
- The rock summit - the palace ruins and views atop the 200-metre rock.
- The frescoes - the ancient paintings of celestial maidens.
- The lion paws - the giant carved paws at the final stairway.
- The water gardens - the ancient landscaped gardens below.
When to go
December to April, the dry season for this region, for the best weather; climb early in the morning to beat the fierce midday heat and the crowds, as the exposed stairways offer little shade.
Honest expectations
It is a steep climb of over a thousand steps in the heat, on stairways that can feel exposed and vertiginous, so it is not for those with limited mobility or a strong fear of heights. It is very popular and hot, so go at opening. Wasps occasionally close parts of the climb. The nearby, lower Pidurangala Rock offers a fine view of Sigiriya itself for less effort.
Nearby
The Dambulla cave temple, the ancient cities and Kandy are within the Cultural Triangle.
What to pack for Sigiriya
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
