sigiriya

Sigiriya or Sinhagiri, an ancient rock fortress is believed to be the site that used to be King Kashyapa’s capital between 477 - 495 CE.  
About three hours drive from Colombo and Negombo is the The Lion Rock, which is the key attraction of the area. The huge complex cannot miss an eye, because of the lavish compound, two moats and three ramparts. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the 200 metres high fortress has colourful frescoes and a gateway shaped up as an enormous lion.

What to See
The Massive Rock Fortress
Eighth Wonder of the World, this ancient palace and fortress holds significant archaeological importance.  It includes the remains of a ruined palace and is surrounded by an extensive network of fortifications. Outside, one will find vast gardens, ponds, canals, alleys and fountains.

Attractions
Frescoes
The open-air spiral stairway takes you to a long sheltered gallery towards the sheer rock face. The paintings and murals here have wasp-waisted apsara (dancers of heaven). The frescoes, since protected from the sun are still in a remarkably good condition and their colours still glowing.

Pidurangula
The prominent rock, about 1km from the Sigiriya site, offers amazing views of Sigiriya. As you hike around 20 minute till the top; you can witness the most beautiful sunset. Photo enthusiasts can witness some magnificent views.

Lion’s Paws
A narrow pathway that goes to the large platform towards the Lion Rock has two huge Lion Paws. Harry Charles Purvis Bell, the British archaeologist found them while excavating here in 1898. An architectural marvel, they add on to the beauty of the Sigiriya Palace Complex.

Royal Gardens
Once home to various Buddhist shrines, this beautiful place is a relief from the bustling city.  Full of charming boulder gardens, it is very close to the rock itself.  The boulders once formed the base of the monastic buildings.

Water Gardens
As you walk from the main entrance till the rock; you will find a series of fascinating water gardens. There are also curved tanks, bathing pools, little islands with pavilions, and landscape borders.

Best Time to Visit
May, June, and July are the hottest months to visit Sigiriya, hence this time should be avoided. February to April has moderate climate and hence is the best time to visit.

How to Reach Galle
By Air
Cinnamon Air operates daily flights from their domestic terminal in Katunayake to the airstrip in Sigiriya. Another way is to reach Colombo with Bandaranaike International Airport . From here you can board a bus or cab for Sigiriya.

By Rail
The closest railway station to Sigiriya is at Habarana, which is approximately 15km away. 

By Road
Private car is the best option to visit this Lion Rock. You can take the A01 (Kandy Road) up to Ambepuss. From this point take a turn off to Kurunegala on the A06. From Colombo, a number of Public Buses are available which you can choose as per your budget.