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.
Top Attractions
Sigiriya Frescoes
These colourful murals located in the sheer rock face, depicting beautiful maidens holding flowers, used to cover the whole western wall.
Mirror Wall Graffiti
This polished wall features ancient visitor inscriptions and poems that date back to the 8th century, often praising the murals and the fortress.
Water Gardens
The grounds of Sigiriya consist of a series of water gardens, which are still functional. These include curved tanks, bathing pools, and little islands.
Boulder Garden
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.
Terraced Gardens
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.
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.
Gallery
