The world is so large and unusual that it seems that in any country in the world there is some unique place created by the hands of people or nature. Sri Lanka also was no exception, because it is here that one of the wonders of the world is located – this is Sigiriya.
Sigiriya has long been deservedly ranked on the UNESCO World Heritage List as a unique palace and fortress complex located on the Lion’s Rock right in the center of Sri Lanka. Read about it in our post today, as well as how to get there and where to stay.
How to get to Sigiriya
Sigiriya is located between the cities of Dambulla and Habaran, in the Central province of Sri Lanka. Accordingly, it will be most convenient for you to get to the Rock from these cities. However, there are many other routes on the island, so no matter what city you are in; you can visit this unique monument.
Sigiriya is located 175 kilometers northeast of Colombo, the island’s capital. The nearest airport is located here (Bandaranaike International Airport). Sri Lanka has a well-developed bus service between cities. All buses are equipped with comfortable seats and air conditioning. Buses (№ 549/499) run from Dambulla to the cliff daily from 7 AM to 7 PM. Travel time is about 40 minutes.
Information about Sigiriya
Located in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka does not cease to amaze everyone who comes here. The whole island is a real natural miracle with its ancient sights, snow-white beaches and tropical forests. However, Sigiriya is perhaps the most famous and most popular attraction of the country.
Sigiriya is a huge rock 370 meters high. The rock has a flat peak with an area of about 200 meters, on which are the ruins of an ancient palace and fortress, as well as amazing gardens and terraces.
The construction of the palace-fortress began in the 4th century during the reign of King Kashyap. After the capture of the throne, he feared fair retaliation and for the sake of his own safety moved the capital and his residence to Sigiriya. It was during this period that a city with a palace, a fortress, packs and even fountains formed on the top of the rock, some of which have survived today. At the same time, a gate appeared in the form of a giant lion, thanks to which the rock got its name (Sigiriya in translation means “Lion’s Rock”).
Today Sigiriya complex includes the following facilities:
- The palace on top of the Lion Rock;
- Terraces and gates;
- Palace wall with frescoes;
- Lower Palace with a garden;
- Fortress moat.
A visit to Sigiriya is paid: about $30 for adults and about $15 for children. Choose morning or evening hours to visit the cliffs, as the sun shines during the day and it is very hot on the mountain.
Nearest hotels to Sigiriya
Near Sigiriya, there are many hotels both luxurious and quite budget. The nearest hotels are located just 2-5 minutes’ walk from the foot of the rock. If you decide to stay near Sigiriya, then here is a short list of some of the nearest hotels:
- Cassandra Culture Resort
- Sigiriya Village Hotel
- Kalum Homestay
- EKHO Sigiriya
- Sunshine Resort & Spa Sigiriya
- Ehalagala Lake Resort
