Joanna James
Located in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, the village of Sigiriya is most famous for the historic rock fortress of the same name - an icon of the island’s grand royal past. However, the town offers visitors a plethora of adventures that reveal its true charm, including the most popular activities listed below.
First things first - you cannot visit Sigiriya without at least visiting the giant Lion’s Rock fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former stronghold of a past Sri Lankan King. That being said if you’re really the adventurous type, the approximate two-hour climb is well worth the effort. Along the way, you’ll witness several highlights including the fascinating Mirror Wall, ancient rock paintings and frescoes, and once you reach the top, you can wander through the remains of the King’s palace that once mightily stood against the sky.
While it isn’t as popular as the fortress, Pidurangala Rock is a great alternative if you want to avoid the crowds that flock to the Lion’s Rock. The hike to the top can be challenging at some stages but it is doable even if you aren’t a regular hiker or climber. The trail takes you through some of the island’s best landscapes including caves, waterfalls and rainforests, making it a great way to reconnect with nature. Plus, the climb is extremely rewarding as you’ll be greeted with a stunning view of the Sigiriya fortress, a sight that some say is even better than climbing the fortress itself.
Hikes and climbs aren’t the only intriguing Sigiriya activities you can enjoy. A visit to one of the town’s local villages is another great way to experience the charm of the town, particularly its day-to-day culture and traditions. A typical tour will take you around the village allowing you to witness a few day-to-day traditions and even meet some of the locals. These visits may also be paired with a boat trip where you can witness the villagers use age-old techniques to reel in a good catch.
If you’re looking to get a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity while in Sigiriya, you’re in luck because the town provides easy access to two National Parks - the Minneriya National Park and the Kaudulla National Park. Both are home to various wildlife species including elephant herds, vibrant bird species and the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. With the accompaniment of a local guide, you’ll learn all there is to know about these fascinating animals and their habits, as you ride through lush greenery and habitats in the safety of a safari jeep. If you’re staying at hotels like Water Garden Sigiriya, you can organise a tour of the Minneriya National Park for a more convenient experience.
Although it isn’t exactly within the town’s limits, visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple is an opportunity too good to miss when you’re in Sigiriya. Also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, the complex is one of the most visited religious places in Sri Lanka, its star highlight being the giant golden Buddha statue, the largest in the country. Apart from this, you can explore the network of five temples which have been carved into a large rock, each featuring a myriad of Buddhist statues, murals, and shrines.
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.
