Located in the northeast of Sri Lanka the town of Sigiriya may initially look fairly basic, but rest assured there’s more than meets the eye. In fact, you might even see a hint of the town’s wonder if you catch a glimpse of its iconic rock fortress that towers above the town against the sky. If you’re curious to explore the hidden treasures in and around Sigiriya, here are a few adventures you can enjoy during your time there.
Climb the Sigiriya Rock
This massive rock fortress is renowned for being the former palace of the Sri Lankan King Kasyapa and is now a UNESCO Heritage Site. If you happen to arrive in Sigirya via a local flight with Cinnamon Air you’ll be able to witness the magnificent rock structure and some of the old palace ruins atop it. However, climbing the rock is a completely different experience from viewing it during any of the scenic flights in Sri Lanka. The climb consists of 1200 steps that take you past several key sections of the fortress including the ancient wall paintings known as the Sigiriya frescoes.
Climb Pidurangala Rock
If you’re looking to embark on more adventurous climbs the Pidurangala Rock is worth exploring. Located just over a kilometre away from the Sigiriya Rock fortress, this sacred rock is perfect if you want to get a better view of the Sigiriya Rock against the horizon. Unlike its counterpart, the Pidurangala Rock takes a shorter time to climb but it can be a little more challenging towards the second half of the hike.
Go On a Safari
You can also immerse yourself in the country’s vibrant forest landscapes by joining a safari at the Minneriya National Park or the Kaudulla National Park. Both parks are located towards the north of Sigirya and feature various bird species, elephants and even leopards.
Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple
If you feel like venturing a little further away from the town of Sigiriya, the nearby town of Dambulla features the iconic Dambulla Cave Temple known for its five caves that are filled with statues of the Buddha. Spending a few hours here is a great way to immerse yourself in the country’s local cultural and spiritual traditions.
