How to explore Sigiriya’s best tourist sites

Sigiriya is a popular tourist attraction due to its distinctive fusion of architecture, history, and scenic beauty. Dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this place is a must-visit destination as it houses the globally renowned Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and breathtaking vistas. It also gives a peek into the nation’s history. Here are some of the best sites you can visit alone or with your family when you make a stopover there. 

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Often considered an engineering marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya Rock Fortress is also termed the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’ by the locals. This is because this wonderful castle, which was built atop a rock mountain by King Kashyapa, is an amazing example of ancient engineering as it celebrates feats like urban planning, revolutionary water management and architectural achievements. The place also houses a variety of attractions like palace ruins, the Lion’s Gate and ancient frescoes dubbed as the ‘Mirror Wall’. If you make it to the summit, you will be greeted with stunning scenes of your surroundings, like the neighbouring hills, forests and landscapes. Due to its historical value and mesmerising beauty, this site is often considered one of the top Sigiriya tourist attractions any traveller would add to his or her wishlist.  

Dambulla Cave Temple

Yet another UNESCO Heritage Site you can explore is the Dambulla Cave Temple. This amazing destination is known for its spiritual significance, wonderful art and rich history. It goes down history as the biggest and most well-preserved cave temple in the country. Travellers who visit the site will be able to witness the five elaborately painted caves, colourful paintings depicting mythology and Buddhist life as well as countless Buddha statues. Uncover Buddhist history and take in the tranquillity of this spiritual place. 

Minneriya National Park

Anyone who is an elephant enthusiast will surely pay a visit to Minneriya National Park as it houses many wild elephants. For the best sightings, visit this destination from April to October. This is the dry spell there, and you will be able to see many elephants flocking to the Minneriya Tank and the green spaces circling the tank.  You will also be able to see other forms of wildlife such as buffalo, monkeys, deer, and diverse bird species there. 

Sigiriya Museum

If you are interested in the history of the area, one of the best ways to get information is by stopping by the Sigiriya Museum. A visit to this site will unpeel layers of the area’s rich history, archaeological significance and culture. There are various artefacts and exhibits to inspect like sculptures, tools, jewellery, as well as a human skeleton. This provides a fascinating and educational experience for the members of your whole family.  

Ancient City of Anuradhapura

If you are a history buff and have been to Sri Lanka, your trip will not be complete if you do not visit the historic city of Anuradhapura. This was once a site of grandeur and is in ruins now. However, that makes it more enticing to visit and witness large bell-shaped stupas and temples as well as palaces, historic drinking reservoirs and sculptures. Explore the features of ancient architecture, its rich history and the spirituality of the site. Guests at Water Garden Sigiriya will be taken on guided tours to this ancient heritage site. Some of the main attractions to visit there include the sacred Bo tree, a sampling under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. You also need to visit other attractions like Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, Jetavana Monastery, Thuparama Stupa and more, which are close to Anuradhapura. 

Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

Similar to Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa too opens the doorway to rich experiences steeped in ancient history and spirituality. The city exhibits an intriguing fusion of Buddhist and Sinhalese cultural change, colossal architecture, and sophisticated urban planning. Noted as the second capital city on the island, Polonnaruwa provides insights into the age of King Parakramabahu the Great. The city is home to a variety of buildings that demonstrate the creative and technical skills of ancient architects.