Things to do in Sigiriya - Must-Experience Activities for Holidaymakers Touring Sigiriya

Located on the Sigiriya Rock Fortress grounds the newly established Sigiriya Museum is a not to miss highlight that warrants exploration. Documenting the proud history and cultural significance of the Lion's Rock and all its attributes this state-of-the-art museum allows visitors to uncover the role the famed UNESCO World Heritage Site played in Sri Lankan history. Littered with engaging exhibits which includes relics and other artifacts unearthed in Sigiriya the venue celebrates the site with AV presentations and galleries lined with films, models, layout plans and photographs.

Ideally located within close range of Sigiriya Dambulla is also a UNESCO World Heritage site worthy of exploration when touring Sigiriya. As the most extensive cave complex in Asia the venue known as the Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple is a Buddhist temple like no other in Sri Lanka. Visitors must climb the Dambulla Rock to reach the iconic temple that was constructed over 2500 years ago by King Valagambahu. Surrounded by tropical foliage the cave complex contains a whopping 152 large and small sculptures of Lord Buddha in all. Another highlight at the ancient temple is its breathtaking wall murals and frescoes which retain their vibrant hues of color even today. Revered as the country's best preserved historic point of interest these murals are spread out over 2100m2.

Also located within a comfortable distance of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress the Pidurangala Raja Maha Viharaya is another must-visit temple in Sigiriya. Built during the same era in history the ancient temple is also attributed to King Kashyapa who constructed the iconic Lion's Rock. The main attractions at the Pidurangala Raja Maha Viharaya include a cave which contains five statues of Lord Buddha within its confines and its monastery.

Conveniently situated within close range of three wildlife hubs visitors holidaying in Sigiriya can explore the flora and fauna of the Wasgamuwa National Park, the Minneriya National Park and the Kaudulla National Park. The Minneriya National Park is the closest of the three and is popular among wildlife enthusiasts as a prime venue to witness herds of elephants. Wildlife safaris are available at all three national parks including Minneriya which is home to more than 150 bird species and countless creatures including illusive leopards.

Revered as Sri Lanka's most popular UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is no ordinary cultural landmark in the island nation. Climbing the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a must for all first time visitors to Sigiriya as the iconic landmark from which the city earns its name is an engineering and architectural marvel for the ages. Surrounded by vast gardens and ponds visitors van witness the iconic "mirror wall" and ancient frescoes on the way to the summit before coming across the mammoth lion paws which signals the last stretch of the climb to the summit. Surrounded by breathtaking views across the region visitors will find a stone throne, water ponds and other ruins of the former palace conceived and occupied by King Kashapya. Holidaymakers in search of a hotel in Sigiriya can have a number of luxury hotels Sigiriya counts among its finest rests at their disposal such as the renowned Hotel Sigiriya.