Sigiriya UNESCO heritage site

sigiriya rockCompelling reasons to visit Sigiriya

1. Ancient Rock Fortress:

 Sigiriya is home to the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as the Lion Rock. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 5th century AD and is a remarkable example of ancient Sri Lankan architecture and engineering.

 

 

2. Stunning Views

Climbing Sigiriya Rock offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungle landscape and nearby countryside. The view from the top, after ascending steep staircases and passing through historic sites like the Mirror Wall and the Lion Gate, is truly awe-inspiring.

 

 

3. Historical Significance

 Sigiriya holds significant historical and cultural importance. It was once the royal palace and capital city of King Kashyapa, who built his fortress atop the rock. The site showcases intricate frescoes, water gardens, and other archaeological marvels that offer insights into ancient Sri Lankan civilization.

 

 

4. Frescoes and Gardens

The Sigiriya Frescoes, located halfway up the rock face, are renowned for their beauty and preservation. These ancient paintings depict celestial maidens and provide a glimpse into the artistic skills of the time. The water gardens surrounding the rock, featuring fountains, pools, and canals, add to the site’s allure.

 

 

5. Natural Beauty

Apart from its historical significance, Sigiriya is set amidst lush greenery and natural landscapes. The rock itself is a geological marvel, rising abruptly from the surrounding plain, creating a dramatic backdrop for the ancient ruins.

 

 

6. Cultural Experience

 Visiting Sigiriya allows travelers to immerse themselves in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. It offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient architecture, learn about local history and traditions, and appreciate the artistic achievements of early Sri Lankan civilization.

 

 

7. Adventure and Exploration

Climbing Sigiriya Rock involves a bit of adventure and physical activity, making it an exciting experience for many travelers. The journey to the top, with its spiral staircases and narrow pathways, adds a sense of exploration and discovery to the visit.

 

 

Overall, Sigiriya combines history, natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure, making it a destination that appeals to a wide range of travelers interested in exploring Sri Lanka’s past and present.

how to get there

To travel from Colombo to Sigiriya, you have a few transportation options depending on your preference for cost, comfort, and time:

By Bus

1. From Colombo to Dambulla

   – Take a bus from the Colombo Central Bus Stand (Pettah Bus Stand) to Dambulla. Buses are frequent, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours depending on traffic.

   – Dambulla is the nearest major town to Sigiriya, located about 19 km away.

 

2. From Dambulla to Sigiriya

   – Once you reach Dambulla, you can take a local bus or a tuk-tuk (auto-rickshaw) to Sigiriya.

   – The travel time from Dambulla to Sigiriya is approximately 30 minutes by bus or less by tuk-tuk.

 

By Train and Bus

1. Train from Colombo to Habarana

   – Take a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Habarana. Trains are available daily, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours.

   – From Habarana, you can take a bus or a taxi to Sigiriya, which is about 15 km away.

 

By Car or Taxi

  – This is the most convenient option if you prefer direct and comfortable travel. 

  – The journey by car or taxi from Colombo to Sigiriya takes around 4-5 hours depending on traffic conditions.

 

 Important Tips

– Travel Time: Plan for at least half a day to travel from Colombo to Sigiriya by bus or train, and slightly less by car.

– Cost: Buses are the most economical but may be crowded. Trains offer a scenic journey but can be less frequent and need booking in advance.

– Flexibility: Taxis or private cars provide the most flexibility and comfort but are more expensive.

 

It’s advisable to check current schedules and availability before planning your trip.

Hours and Fees

 

Sigiriya Rock Fortress: 

  – Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

  – It’s recommended to start your climb early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds, especially if you plan to climb to the summit.

 

Entrance Fees (as of latest update):

For Foreign Tourists:

  – USD 30 per person.

  – There might be additional fees for using cameras and video cameras.

  

For SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) Countries:

  – USD 15 per person.

  

For Sri Lankan Nationals :

  – LKR 100 for adults.

  – LKR 50 for children (age 6-12).

 

Additional Fees:

– Camera and Video Fees:

  – Still Camera: LKR 250 per camera.

  – Video Camera: LKR 2000 per camera.

 

 

– Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate to Sigiriya.

 

Guides:

Local guides are available at the site and can provide historical and cultural insights during your visit. The cost of hiring a guide can vary.

Duration:

Typically, visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring Sigiriya, including the climb up and down the rock and time spent exploring the archaeological site.

Accessibility

The climb to the summit involves steep staircases and can be physically demanding. It’s advisable to wear comfortable footwear and carry water.

 

It’s always a good idea to check for any updates or changes in fees and hours of operation before your visit.

Official websites

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