Joanna James
While it may be difficult to enjoy all that Sigiriya has to offer during a two-day period, it is more than enough time to hit the highlights. Here's a list of the top things to do during a two-day getaway to the historic city of Sigiriya.
Whether one is based at the Aliya Resort and Spa or any other resort in the area, hiking up Pidurangala Rock is one of the first things to do in Sigiriya, for first-time visitors. Although the Lion Rock or Sigiriya Rock Fortress is the most famous landmark in the heritage hotspot, this lesser-known point of interest should be everyone's first stomping grounds in Sigiriya. Pidurangala Rock provides some of the best views of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from its elevated position. Watching the sunrise from this spot is a truly unforgettable experience. Additionally, visitors can explore the ancient Buddhist temple located along the way to the summit.
Tourists with an interest in discovering Sigiriya village and its pastoral surroundings should also sign up for a boating excursion on Hiriwadunna Lake. Don't forget to wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat as the sun can be quite harsh if one embarks on a morning or afternoon boat ride. Those who sign up for the full "village tour" can not only witness the countless bird species and reptiles occupying the banks of the river but also dine on a hearty meal of rice and curry in the village and indulge in a ride on an ox cart.
Also called the Golden Temple of Dambulla, this is another famous UNESCO World Heritage Site located within easy driving distance of Sigiriya. Considered the world's best-preserved cave temple and the largest shrine of its kind, this sacred point of interest boasts a whopping 157 sculptures of Lord Buddha as well as several statues of Sri Lankan kings. With its cave walls adorned with colourful murals, a tour of the Dambulla Cave Temple can be a truly magical experience.
The second day of the trip should start with a hike up to Sigiriya's most illustrious landmark, the Lion Rock. As the climb takes nearly three hours to complete at leisure, it's crucial to head over to the gates of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress first thing after breakfast as the sun can make climbing difficult as the day goes on. With a staggering height of 200m, King Kashyapa's 5th-century castle and fortress is home to not only ancient frescoes and a stone throne but also water gardens and a mirror wall. Don't forget to pop by the Sigiriya Museum to better understand the engineering feats that make the ancient palace a marvel for the ages.
With Kaudulla National Park and Minneriya National Park less than an hour's drive away, a trip to Sigiriya affords visitors the chance to embark on exciting wildlife adventures. Spending what's left of one's time in the region scouring the wildernesses of either one of these wildlife sanctuaries is a great way to bid adieu to the Cultural Triangle.
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