Joanna James
Sigiriya, home of the ancient rock fortress by the same name had been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982. Thus a must-visit site on this tiny island in the Indian Ocean. History and skilful innovation are features to admire in addition to the natural treasures of the surroundings.
Having 03 National Parks in the vicinity of Sigiriya, make the most of it as these rich grasslands with water bodies are favourite haunts of resident mammals such as elephants, spotted deer, wild buffalo, sloth bear wild boar and a variety of resident and migrating birds. A half-day safari with a guide is ideal, as done by guests at many Sigiriya resorts providing you with a great opportunity to witness many of these animals and birds at close quarters,
No visit to Sigiriya is fulfilling without climbing the Sigiriya Rock. During most parts of the year entry to this ascent is permitted. Start early enabling you to do most of the climb before the rays of the sun become fierce as done by visitors from Hotel Sigiriya. This way you also have the advantage of climbing steadily without having to wind your way among crowds of people and have the pleasure of capturing memorable images Wear light clothing and a good pair of shoes for a comfortable climb. Spend time observing the special innovations and features that make this an outstanding site, the frescoes of young maidens, the mirror wall, Lion's paw entry, fortified moats, and water gardens with advanced irrigation systems way ahead of that era. You gain a sense of enrichment by merely visiting Sigiriya.
The cave temples are another UNESCO World Heritage site about a 30-minute drive from Sigiriya. These five natural cave temples have been transformed and preserved well over many centuries to the present status enabling fairly large spaces to walk through and pay reverence to Lord Buddha and providing space for worshipping. Many statues of Lord Buddha in different positions, murals depicting the life of Prince Siddhartha (who attained Buddhahood) are venerated by devotees and admired by visitors including the large seated Golden Buddha Statue.
Everything you witnessed from the ground such as the parks teeming with flora and fauna, Sigiriya Rock and the Golden Buddha statue in Dambulla will appear in a new dimension as you glide smoothly over them and witness the sun rising gloriously welcoming another day. Doing this ride over Dambulla and Kandalama early on a clear day provides breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience not to be missed.
Another ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa is about an hour's drive from Sigiriya. Famous Parakrama Samudra, an enormous tank built by King Parakrama Bahu to preserve rainwater for cultivation purposes demonstrating the wisdom and ingenuity of the king, the Gal Vihara a temple made out of rock with several statues and a visit through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa to admire the ruins of the massive constructions during that era which can easily be done in a vehicle, a day well spent to explore and enjoy.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
