“What incredible experiences and must-try adventures await in Sigiriya?”

Uncover the riches of a bygone era, ascend the stairways of a truly colossal architectural marvel and in short, have yourself a delightful time within the rustic charm of Sigiriya. This village situated within the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka promises adventure-soaked moments and leisurely pursuits that will take your breath away. Make a note of these landmarks the next time you’re on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Climb Sigiriya Rock

Unquestionably, the primary reason for a visit to Sigiriya is the prospect of climbing the Lion Rock of Sigiriya. Believed to have seen the light of day in 477 AD for the sole reason of functioning as the capital of King Kashyapa’s kingdom, Sigiriya Rock has grown in fame and presence with the passing of time and remains one of Sri Lanka’s must-see wonders. Replete with a number of engineering feats such as impressively crafted boulder gardens, audience hall rocks and bathing pools, Sigiriya Rock is a sight for sore eyes and a history lesson that all visitors to the village would do well to learn of. The higher and farther you go, the greater the appeal as the attraction lays claim to a series of murals titled the ‘Sigiriya Frescoes,’ which are thought to be portrayals of maidens who once served in the royal court. Notably, the graffiti covering the Mirror Wall warrants inspection for historians and archaeologists opine that the said wording evidences the origins of the Sinhala language. Up at the summit, enjoy sweeping panoramas of lush green jungle and rolling mountains that pave the way for one riveting encounter with a chapter of Sri Lanka’s storied past.

Explore the Sigiriya Museum

Should you want more of a deep dive into Sigiriya, then it would make extremely good sense to allocate time for the Sigiriya Museum. Positioned near the main ticket booth of the Lion Rock, this tourist attraction continues to draw attention and discourse from Sri Lankans and foreigners alike. Showcasing a slew of artefacts and exhibits, a handful of which have been recovered from Sigiriya Rock itself; Sigiriya Museum boasts a detailed diorama of the site that will easily make you pause and take notice. Black and white pictures of H.C.P. Bell, the 1st Archaeological Commissioner of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) who was credited with having conducted thorough excavations across the Lion Rock are on display. Also, explanations of age-old trade routes that confirm Sigiriya’s ties to the Roman Empire, Gulf, India and China will never be too far away from inquisitive eyes covering the length and breadth of the building.

Meet the Handyman Sigiriya

A major talking point in this part of the country, Handyman Sigiriya found at the corner of Sigiriya Road and Hotel Road will fill you with a fondness and appreciation for the local arts & crafts scene. Although devoid of any billboards or signage, visitors hoping to call by the workshop of the artisan can make queries from their modes of accommodation on how to include a trip here. A decent choice of lodging is Water Garden Sigiriya, which ranks as one of the finest hotels near Sigiriya to vacation at. Witness the artisan apply his trade skilfully and meticulously en route to fashioning items in the likes of jewellery boxes, tea tins and bookmarks, purely out of metal. Once here, you may exchange pleasantries with the man himself, shop for souvenirs and even pose for the camera.

Peddle your way to Dakinigiriya Vihara

Rent a cycle, buckle up and prepare to travel along dirt tracks that will lead you in the direction of the seldom spoken and visited site of Dakinigiriya Vihara. Discover ruins of a former monastery that include a prayer hall, a tiny tank, caves and rock inscriptions that would combine for the perfect day trip in Sigiriya.