Sigiriya

OVERVIEW

Sigiriya

Rising dramatically 200 metres above the surrounding jungle, Sigiriya is Sri Lanka's single most iconic sight and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa as a royal fortress and pleasure palace, its summit once held a complex of gardens, pools, and frescoed walls. Today, the climb to the top reveals ancient frescoes of celestial maidens, the famous Lion's Paw entrance, and panoramic views that stretch to the horizon in every direction. The surrounding area includes the cave temples of Dambulla, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, and the elephant-rich Minneriya National Park.

Sigiriya is the centrepiece of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle. The sunrise climb is unforgettable, and the surrounding region offers a concentration of archaeological wonders, wildlife encounters, and rural village life that is unmatched.