Joanna James
Serving as an essential part of Sri Lanka’s much-loved ‘Cultural Triangle’ is the historic region of Sigiriya. Below is a list of popular landmarks that must be visited when here on holiday.
Long before you begin ascending the steps en route to the summit of the Lion Rock or Sigiriya itself, you will be handed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be educated on the prehistoric times of the Emerald Isle. Located at the base of the rock fortress is the Sigiriya Museum which saw the light of day in 2009 on the back of the efforts of the local government and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency. Inspect a series of artefacts of varying sizes and shapes which are housed within 5 galleries that successfully present life as it was during the rise and fall of kingdoms of old.
Found adjacent to the historic and domineering sight of Sigiriya is Pidurangala Rock which is presently one of the primary reasons for touring the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka. Hiking enthusiasts and adventure junkies alike stand to benefit from the trail that will see to it that you tread along boulder-strewn pathways and through thick jungle & an ancient Buddhist temple before reaching the plateau. From here sweeping vistas of its surrounding environs and that of the Lion Rock can be savoured and for the best time, it is recommended that you begin journeying just before the sun rises.
Having written its name in the chronicles of Sri Lanka’s history as the best-preserved cave temple complex in the island nation, the Dambulla Cave Temple is where culture buffs, wanderlusts and those on pilgrimages commune. The Complex is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features 5 main caves that hold a treasure trove of wonder and variety. Boasting more than 150 statues that depict the life and times of the Buddha, gods, goddesses and the kings of bygone eras, the Dambulla Cave Temple is also reputed for its cave paintings and murals that are found adorning its walls and ceilings. Visitors are encouraged to cover their shoulders and knees before setting foot inside this attraction which opens its doors daily from 7 am to 7 pm.
Nestled in the vicinity of Dambulla are the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs which trace the early beginnings and ancient civilisations that once thrived in the country. Time spent here will have you drifting back to the Iron Age while a well-kept museum will offer you the ease of access to the findings of burial grounds. Within the four walls of the museum, one will discover an array of gold jewellery, gemstones, clay pots and urns that have been preserved in a manner to educate the present-day generations who seek a thorough understanding of Sri Lanka’s unmistakable heritage.
Nature lovers and wildlife fans can ill-afford to leave Sigiriya and its spectacular environs without ever so much as calling by the glorious Minneriya National Park. Renowned for playing host to the ‘Gathering’ come the months of August and September which witnesses around 200 elephants gather by the waters of the Minneriya Reservoir to drink, feed and frolic, the Park cannot be missed out on at any cost. One can expect to go on a jeep safari along dirt tracks that will culminate in many absorbing encounters with the wilds which range from elephant sightings to bird-watching expeditions under the watchful eyes of expert guides. In fact, should you decide to check into Ayurvie Sigiriya which is an Ayurvedic retreat Sri Lanka has to offer, where you will be conveniently placed to embark on such inspiring adventures...
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.
