Tour To Sigiriya

An archeological site of great importance made unforgettable by its dramatically spectacular setting, the impregnable citadel of Sigiriya is often considered the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. This massive architectural marvel echoes the tales of the extraordinary & short-lived capital of a usurper King.

Major Attractions of Sigiriya

Sigiriya Rock Fortress & City
The ruins of the capital of King Kashyapa (Kassapa) lie on the slopes & summit of a 200 meter high rock. Built in the 5th century AD, this imposing fortress (Lion Rock) takes its name from the enormous lion paws carved in rock at the entrance. A series of tricky staircases take you to the summit of the rock which is home to landscaped gardens & ruins of the palace. The rock face & cave shrines are covered with colorful frescos. The summit opens up to an amazing 360 degree view of verdant forests stretching for miles. Preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya is an iconic monument of Sri Lankan history & culture. 

Sigiriya Museum
Be sure to visit Sigiriya Museum for better insight into the history & culture of Sri Lanka. The three dimensional model of Sigiriya fortress including its gardens, moats & ponds, recreated with the help of excavatory evidences, powers your imagination and helps you visualize the extent of this imposing fortress.

Pidurangala Rock & Monastery
Pidurangala, situated around 2 kilometers from Sigiriya, is definitely a magnificent sight to behold. In accordance with history, the monks inhabiting the area for centuries were moved to this renovated & expanded monastery in Pidurangala. The trek up to the rock is through the temple and runs through Sigiriya-like staircases and a huge image of a reclining Buddha. The summit rewards you with awe-inspiring views & scenic vistas.

Kudagala Forest Reserve & Monastery
The drip ledged caves of Kudagala Monastery, festooned with murals & frescos, are often known as Kuda-Sigiriya. Located around two hrs from Sigiriya, in Dehiattakandiya, the ruins of this 2000 year old monastery reverberate with the echoes of the past.

Minneriya National Park
Located in the North Central Province, Minneriya is the largest elephant gathering ground in the world. Take a safari in the gathering months from June to October and you will surely be treated with scores of majestic elephants feeding near the Minneriya Tank. Leopards, wild boar, purple faced monkey, sloth bear and many species of migratory birds & water fowls also inhabit this park.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

As the name goes, Pinnawala is the lifeline for abandoned or orphaned baby elephants and adult elephants lost in the wilderness. Indulge in the unique experience of playing & bottle feeding baby elephants.

Best Time to Visit Sigiriya
Travel to Sigiriya is best in the months of dry season from June to August and then from December to February.

How to Reach Sigiriya
By Air- The nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, around 145 kilometers from the Sigiriya.
By Rail- The closest train station to Sigiriya is around 15 kilometers away at Habarana.
By Road- Sigiriya is well-connected to all the major Sri Lankan cities via an impressive network of roads. Buses & hired taxis are easily available for travel.