Sigiriya

Lion's paws

Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress located in northern Matale district near Dambulla town in the central province, Sri Lanka. It is a site of historical and archaeological significance.  It is famous for the palace ruins on top of the massive rock which is about 200 meters high. This has been declared as the 8th wonder of the world by the UNESCO. 

You can climb up to the top of the rock and visualize the lost kingdom that was built on a inaccessible rock. There are about 1300 steps and it will take 30 minutes to 1.5 hours to climb to the top depending on your fitness level. Threre are railings attached in some places where you may feel afraid. But climbing to the top is totally worth to see the beauty in the surrounding area.

There are 3 parts you can visit in here. First is the water garden. In a rainy season some of the water fountains may be still working. In this part there are not much steps to climb. The next part is the boulder gardens up to the lion’s paws. There are many things to see and if you feel tired you can rest under a shade of tree. The hardest part to climb is the part from the lion’s paws to the top of the fortress. There you will have to climb most of the steps at a stretch to enter the fortress.  There are some places with steep steps. But don’t worry there are side railings. 

On top of the rock you can see the ruins of the ancient palace, pools. Also you will be able to see piduragala across the way. You will be delighted with the breathtaking view. Most will spend 40- 60 min on top of the rock.

Pidurangala rock view from sigiriya 

Top of the sigiriya rock

You can see the famous sigiri paintings, but you won’t be allowed to take pictures. On the way down you can see the Mirror Wall.

If you are going from Colombo you have to go to Dambulla and from there you can go towards sigiriya rock. If you are using public transport you can use long distance buses like Anuradhapura, Wawniya, Trincomalee and get down from Dambulla. From there you can get a short distance bus (I can’t remember the name now) to go to sigiriya or pidurangala. 

For a local adult you have to get a ticket which will cost about Rs.100 and for a foreigner it will be around $30. You cannot take polyethylene inside. 

Tips

• Start early in the morning. It will be open at 7 am and closes at 5 pm.  Mornings and evenings will be more beautiful. Climbing under the hot sun will be more challenging.
• Take plenty of water with you. (1- 2 liters) You will be sweating and will be thirsty. There are no vendors on the way of climbing.
• Bring few snacks. But please don’t litter on the top.
• Wear comfortable shoes. It can be difficult for you to climb if you are having knee problems or leg problems. Otherwise it is not so difficult.
• Wear comfortable cotton clothes. That will help with the heat.
• There are no toilets on top or on the way up. So make sure to use the ones on the ground before you start climbing.