The marvellous Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock stands tall as proof of the creativity of King Kasyapa. Built upon a massive boulder in the 5th century, this rock fortress is a hidden castle of a king. It was also a Buddhist monastery in the 14th century and draws comparisons to the mythical cosmic mountain of Meru. Named the Eighth wonder of the world, no place in Sri Lanka has stirred as many tales and legends as this 180m monolith, set against the backdrop of picturesque scenery.
Sigiriya is a wonder to be explored, with over 1200 steps leading to its summit. Your journey begins with a visit to the museum and then a tranquil stroll through the pleasure gardens, before embarking on the climb. Alongst the way, there are two convenient resting spots to take a break while you learn about the history of this mysterious fortress in the sky. With a climb that can take anywhere from 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours, depending on your pace, the ascent is not for the faint-hearted. What you see when you reach the top are some incredible views and interesting sights that make the effort woth your while!
The best time to climb Sigiriya is early in the morning when the weather is mild and the sun isn't too hot, or later in the afternoon in time to catch the sunset from the top!
Highlights
Unravel the history of the Sigiriya Rock fortress.
Marvel at the unique frescoes in the place.
Explore the stunning gardens surrounding the area.
Includes
Water, your guide and entrance fees.
Kid-Friendly
More Suitable for children aged 6 and above
Difficulty & Accessibility
Easy
Not advisable for travellers using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations.
Timings
Duration approximately 2 Hours + time taken to drive there and back.
Things to Keep in Mind
Wear comfortable cool clothing and suitable shoes for a climb.
Sunscreen and a hat will always come in handy.
A selfie stick for those must have Instagram shots!
Any of our experiences can be included in your travel itinerary when planning your trip with our travel specialists as we help you plan the best way to include Sri Lankas destinations and experiences into your trip.
To add this or any other experience to your itinerary please get in touch with our travel specialists.
