Sigiriya, the small charming town located in the central plains of Sri Lanka is a must-visit destination during your trip to this beautiful country! It is the perfect hub for travellers eager to explore the ancient wonders of the region, offering a blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local hospitality. It also serves as the gateway to one of the country’s most iconic historical sites – the Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress.
ACCOMMODATION
If you’re visiting Sigiriya, the ultimate place to stay is Back of Beyond Pidurangala—a unique retreat that immerses you in nature like nowhere else. Imagine staying in an open treehouse with no walls, doors, or glass windows, surrounded by the serene sounds of the forest. It’s a truly magical experience and one of our absolute favorites in Sri Lanka, offering an unparalleled connection to nature.
The staff are incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring your stay is comfortable and memorable, while the food is nothing short of delicious, featuring authentic Sri Lankan flavors. The location couldn’t be more convenient, as it’s just a 5-minute walk to Pidurangala Rock, making it the perfect base for exploring the area.
THINGS TO DO
Sigiriya Rock – Lion’s Rock
The most famous attraction in Sigiriya—and often the main reason to visit—is the iconic Sigiriya Rock, also known as Lion’s Rock. This ancient rock fortress rises nearly 200 meters above the surrounding landscape, standing majestically at the heart of the town. As a symbol of ancient ingenuity, artistry, and ambition, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history.
At the base of the rock, you’ll find the meticulously designed water gardens—among the oldest in the world—demonstrating the advanced hydraulic systems of ancient Sri Lanka. Alongside these, the Boulder Gardens and Terrace Gardens are equally captivating and well worth exploring. Together, these features have earned Sigiriya its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Halfway up the rock, don’t miss the ancient frescoes known as the Sigiriya Maidens. These beautifully preserved paintings depict celestial maidens in vibrant colors and intricate detail, showcasing the remarkable artistry of ancient Sri Lanka.
As you climb higher, you’ll reach the famous Lion’s Gate, a striking feature of Sigiriya. Here, two massive lion paws, carved from the rock itself, guard the entrance to the final ascent. This imposing gateway is believed to have once been part of a larger sculpture of a lion, with its mouth forming the main entrance to the upper sections of the fortress. Although only the paws remain today, they offer a vivid sense of the grandeur and symbolism of the original design, which emphasized strength and power.
At the summit, you’ll discover the ruins of a grand palace built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century. This sprawling complex once featured elaborate royal quarters, a throne room, and a sophisticated network of reservoirs and cisterns designed to collect and store rainwater—a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the time. The summit also includes the remains of audience halls, courtyards, and gardens, all meticulously planned to reflect the king’s vision of paradise.
From this vantage point, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the lush, green landscape stretching far into the horizon. The sight of the surrounding countryside, with its forests, villages, and water reservoirs, is breathtaking!
ENTRANCE FEE – The entrance fee to Sigiriya Rock is 33 EUR, making it one of the priciest attractions in Sri Lanka. However, if it fits within your budget, it’s absolutely worth it for the unforgettable experience.
Sigiriya Archeological Museum
Before or after your climb to Sigiriya Rock, be sure to visit the Sigiriya Archeological Museum. This well-curated museum offers a deeper understanding of the history, architectural brilliance, and cultural significance of the site. Through insightful exhibits, artifacts, and detailed models, the museum provides valuable context that enhances your exploration of the rock’s ruins. You will discover fascinating details about the ancient hydraulic systems, the construction of the palace, and the lives of the people who once inhabited this remarkable fortress.
ENTRANCE FEE – if you visit Sigiriya Rrock, the entrance fee to the Archeological Museum is included in your Sigiriya Rock ticket. Otherwise is around 6 EUR alone.
Pidurangala Rock
Just a short distance from Sigiriya, Pidurangala Rock offers a great alternative for hiking. The climb is shorter but a bit tougher, with uneven steps and a short scramble near the top, but the effort is worth it. Unlike Sigiriya Rock, it’s quieter and less crowded, making it a peaceful place to visit.
At the top, you’ll get stunning views of the surrounding area, including a fantastic sight of Sigiriya Rock in the distance. It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light creates a beautiful glow. Along the way, you’ll also find an ancient reclining Buddha statue in a small rock shelter, adding a touch of history to your hike.
ENTRANCE FEE – the entrance fee to Pidurangala Rock is only around 3 EUR.
Thalkote Lake Boat Tour
One of our favourite activities in Sigiriya was the sunset boat tour around the Thalkote Lake that was organised by our accommodation – Back of Beyond Pidurangala (they do take reservations from non guests too).
This tour is a must for all the sunset lovers, birds watchers and anyone who likes calm, tranquil and natural atmosphere! Our guide was very knowledgeable and thought us all about every different bird we’ve seen. There were so many of them! It was such an incredible wholesome experience.
We also got to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets. The calm Thalkote Lake was mirroring its reflection and everything around just turned orange! Of course this beautiful sunset is not guaranteed as it depends on the weather but nevertheless the bird watching experience was worth it alone!
Hiriwadunna Village tour
For an authentic glimpse into rural Sri Lankan life, consider taking a tour of the Hiriwadunna Village. This tour offers a hands-on experience of traditional village life, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and customs.
Begin your journey with a ride on a traditional bullock cart, a mode of transport once widely used in Sri Lanka. Next, enjoy a tranquil catamaran ride across a serene lake, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views. Along the way, you’ll often see villagers fishing, farming, or going about their daily routines, giving you a real sense of their lifestyle.
One of the highlights of the tour is visiting a local village home, where you can watch or even participate in the preparation of a home-cooked Sri Lankan meal. From grinding spices to cooking over a wood fire, you’ll learn about the techniques and ingredients that make traditional Sri Lankan cuisine so flavorful. Once prepared, you can enjoy the meal in a relaxed, authentic setting, often served on banana leaves.
This tour also offers opportunities to interact with locals, learn about their traditions, and hear their stories, making it a meaningful and enriching experience.
Cooking Class
Don’t leave Sigiriya without joining a true Sri Lankan cooking class. These classes give you the chance to learn how to make traditional and authentic dishes like rice & curry, hoppers, coconut sambal and others using fresh, local ingredients.
A cooking class in Sigiriya is a fun way to connect with local culture and take home some new skills to recreate these dishes at home.
YOU CAN BOOK YOUR SIGIRIYA COOKING CLASS HERE
Ayurvedic Spa Treatment
After a day of exploration, unwind with an Ayurvedic spa treatment. Ayurveda is the traditional medical practice, which originated from India but is widely used in Sri Lanka! You can’t leave Sri Lanka without getting the Ayurvedic SPA treatment!
Ayurvedic spa treatments are unique and deeply relaxing spa procedures, that originate in Ayurvedic medicine. They are meant to ease the body, mind, and soul and to rejuvenates the physical and emotional well-being. Ayurveda SPA treatments have deeper, therapeutic intentions for health and healing. It is a method to purify the inner self ,with natural medicines, where organic oil blends are infused with Ayurvedic herbs and heated to promote relaxation and detoxification. The therapist focuses on clearing the energy channels in the body, moving and dislodging toxins, and balancing the chakras (energy centers).
Ayurvedic treatments are widely popular in Sri Lanka and should not be missed! There are various different treatments to choose from. The most popular is Abhyanga – the classical oil massage working the whole body.
Some of the best Ayurvedic SPAs in Sigiriya are Ayurvie Retreat, Wasala Ayurvedic Treatment Center and Ayurveda Isiwara Paura
Handyman Sigiriya
For a unique and affordable local souvenir, make sure to visit the talented “Handyman Sigiriya.” This skilled artisan creates a variety of handmade items from metal, including jewelry boxes, bookmarks, coffee and tea tins, and more—all at very reasonable prices. His craftsmanship is exceptional, and each piece is a perfect keepsake or gift.
You won’t find signs or billboards pointing the way, so simply search for “Handyman Sigiriya” on Google Maps to locate his workshop. It’s a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit for anyone looking to take home a meaningful piece of Sigiriya.
Pethikada
Another excellent spot to find a unique local souvenir is the Pethikada Paintings and Craft Gallery. This charming gallery features a stunning collection of traditional Sri Lankan art, including vibrant paintings, intricate wooden carvings, and other handcrafted pieces.
What sets Pethikada apart is its focus on heritage-inspired artwork. Many of the paintings depict traditional frescoes and motifs from iconic sites like the Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock, and other cultural landmarks. Each piece reflects Sri Lanka’s rich artistic history, making it a meaningful and distinctive keepsake.
Minneriya, Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa National Parks
A wildlife safari is a must-do experience when visiting Sigiriya, with Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Wasgamuwa National Parks offering incredible opportunities to explore Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. Minneriya is famous for the “Elephant Gathering” from July to October, where hundreds of elephants gather near the reservoir. Kaudulla, just nearby, provides similar elephant sightings in a quieter setting, especially from August to December. For a more tranquil and diverse adventure, Wasgamuwa offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and sightings of elephants, sloth bears, and a variety of birds. Each park showcases the natural beauty and wildlife of the region, making any safari an unforgettable highlight of your trip.
Which Park to Choose?
- For Elephants: Minneriya and Kaudulla are top choices. If you’re visiting during July to October, Minneriya is the best option. From August to December, Kaudulla might offer better sightings as elephants migrate.
- For a Unique, Quiet Experience: Wasgamuwa is ideal for travelers who value solitude, diverse wildlife, and pristine natural settings.
- For Convenience: Minneriya is the easiest to reach from Sigiriya and provides reliable elephant sightings year-round.
NOTE: If you self-drive near Minneriya National Park (for example on your way to Pollonaruwa) be very careful as there are often elephants crossing the roads! :-)
Dambulla
Dambulla is a historic town just a 30-minute drive from Sigiriya, best known for its iconic Royal Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been a place of worship for over 2,000 years. Adding to its significance is the newer Golden Temple, a striking modern addition featuring a giant golden Buddha statue that towers over the surrounding area.
Beyond its temples, Dambulla is known for its vibrant cultural and natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush forests and ancient reservoirs, offering picturesque views from the rock summit. It is also home to a bustling produce market, one of the largest in Sri Lanka, where visitors can experience the local way of life. Its central location makes Dambulla a convenient hub for exploring the Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle.
Royal Cave Temple
The Royal Cave Temple in Dambulla, also known as the Dambulla Cave Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a treasure trove of ancient art and culture. This sacred complex consists of five caves adorned with vibrant murals depicting Buddhist themes and over 150 statues of Buddha, gods, and kings. Dating back to the 1st century BCE, it is one of Sri Lanka’s best-preserved temple complexes. Set atop a massive rock, the temple also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding plains, making it both a spiritual and visual delight for visitors.
Golden Temple
The Dambulla Golden Temple is a striking Buddhist landmark located at the base of the Dambulla Cave Temple complex. Its centerpiece is a massive golden statue of Buddha, one of the largest in the world, which gleams brightly and can be seen from afar. The temple serves as a modern gateway to the ancient caves above and includes a small museum showcasing Buddhist artifacts and history. The Golden Temple is a symbol of Sri Lanka’s enduring Buddhist heritage and a must-visit site for its grandeur and cultural significance.
Cricket match
Cricket fans might enjoy a visit to the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, famous for its picturesque setting against the backdrop of the Dambulla Rock. It’s a great place to catch a game if you’re in town during cricket season!
Avukana Buddha Statue
Avukana Buddha Statue is one of the most awe-inspiring masterpiece of ancient Sri Lankan art. This well-preserved Buddha statue nestled in the serene surroundings of Kekirawa was carved out of a single granite rock in the 5th century and is a testament to the skill and devotion of the craftsmen of the Anuradhapura era.
The statue stands at approximately 46 feet (14 meters) tall and depicts the Buddha in a standing posture, performing the “Asisa Mudra” (a gesture of blessing). The slightly raised right hand symbolize protection and reassurance to devotees.
What sets the Avukana Buddha apart is the attention to detail—every fold of the Buddha’s robe is intricately carved, creating a sense of fluidity and movement that breathes life into the stone.
The Avukana Buddha is more than just an artistic achievement; it is a spiritual symbol that has drawn pilgrims and tourists alike for centuries.
ENTRANCE FEE – the ticket cost around 3,30 EUR
Pollonaruwa
Polonnaruwa is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, showcasing the grandeur of a bygone era. After the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993, Pollonaruwa became the new ancient capital of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and ruled for nearly 53 years. Polonnaruwa’s era of prosperity ended in the mid-13th century with a series of civil wars and invasions and the city was eventually abandoned and overtaken by jungle. Today Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing visitors with its well-preserved relics of palaces, temples, and statues.
At the heart of Polonnaruwa is the Royal Palace complex, which once housed King Parakramabahu I, a ruler famed for his contributions to the city’s development. The palace ruins, with their massive walls and intricately carved stonework, hint at the opulence that once defined the kingdom.
Nearby, the audience hall and the stunning Vatadage, a circular relic house, exemplify the architectural brilliance of the time.
One of the most iconic sites in Polonnaruwa is the Gal Vihara, a rock temple featuring four magnificent Buddha statues carved into a single granite boulder. These statues, representing various postures of the Buddha, are masterpieces of ancient Sri Lankan art, embodying a profound sense of spirituality and peace.
Another highlight is the Parakrama Samudra, a vast man-made reservoir constructed by King Parakramabahu I. This engineering marvel reflects the king’s vision of harnessing water resources, ensuring the prosperity of the kingdom through advanced irrigation systems.
ENTRANCE FEE – the ticket to the Ancient City cost 27,50 EUR and you can move around the different sites with your own vehicle. You can go with a car, tuktuk, motorbike or you can rent a bicycle on the site. There are also plenty tuktuk drivers that offer to take you around or even a fully guided tour.
NOTE: If you self-drive to Pollonaruwa, be very careful when you pass across Minneriya National Park as there are often elephants crossing the roads! :-)
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals, is a city rich in history, culture, and spirituality. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is home to some of the country’s most significant and well-preserved archaeological landmarks. The city was the capital of Sri Lanka for over 1,300 years, serving as a center of religion, politics, and culture. Key highlights include the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree believed to be a sapling from the original tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. The Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, one of the largest and most revered stupas in the world, is another must-see, along with several other stupas, ancient monasteries, and ruins of royal palaces. Anuradhapura is also known for its intricate water management systems, including large reservoirs and canals, which reflect the advanced engineering skills of ancient Sri Lanka.
Rose Quartz Mountain (Jathika Namal Uyana)
Jathika Namal Uyana, also known as the Rose Quartz Mountain, is an ancient Ironwood forest that offers a unique and peaceful escape into nature. The forest is home to the largest pink quartz mountain range in South Asia, and a walk through its trails is both refreshing and enlightening. The combination of the rare ironwood trees and the striking rose quartz formations makes this a must-visit site for those who enjoy hiking!
Ritigala – Archeological Site and Nature Reserve
Ritigala is an ancient Buddhist monastery and a sacred mountain located in the central part of Sri Lanka, known for its unique archaeological significance and natural beauty. The site, set amidst dense forests, is home to the ruins of a monastery that dates back to the 1st century BCE. Ritigala is famous for its well-preserved stone structures, including steps, platforms, and shrines, which were once part of a monastic complex used by Buddhist monks for meditation and study. The site also includes a fascinating array of inscriptions and ancient carvings. The mountain itself, rising to 766 meters, is a serene and tranquil place, offering visitors a combination of history, spirituality, and stunning views.
TRANSPORTATION
TUKTUK RENTAL
In our opinion, the best way to travel around Sri Lanka is with your own TukTuk! We have rented ours at https://tuktukrental.com. To drive around Sri Lanka, you will need a local Sri Lankan driving license called Sri Lankan Recognition Permit. Your international driver’s license unfortunately isn’t sufficient to drive here.
We got our license sorted by our tuktuk rental company. We sent them all the documents needed and they got it ready for us for an extra fee. Otherwise you have to go to Automobile Association of Ceylon located in Colombo and get the license there.
However from April 15th 2024 tourists are able to apply for the local Sri Lankan license directly at the airport after arrival.
NOTE: You can’t drive with a tuktuk on the highway (so make sure you set your google maps on “avoiding motorways”) and the maximum speed you can drive at is 40km/h. This means that when you are planning your drives, you have to add some extra time to the time it shows you on google maps. We have noticed that with a tuktuk it took us around 20min longer per each hour of the drive. So if google maps shows you 1h drive (car drive) it will be around 1h20min with a tuktuk. If it shows 2h, it will be around 2h40min and so on!
We were driving to Sigiriya from Pinnawala and it took us around 3,5h.
You could also rent a scooter if you don’t feel up for a tuktuk! You will still need to obtain the Sri Lankan driving permit though!
PRIVATE DRIVER
We understand that driving a tuktuk is not for everybody as it definitely can be stressful at times. If you want to travel around Sri Lanka completely stress-free we would recommend you to hire a private driver. If you would like to explore Sri Lanka with a professional private driver here is a contact on our local family friend Treshan (+94 77 354 2191). You can contact him via WhatsApp and plan your holidays together. He can take you and show you all around Sri Lanka so you will have the perfect hassle-free holidays!
Another perk of travelling with a local is that they aren’t just drivers but also tour guides! They know all the best spots, hidden gems and off the beaten path places. So other than all the tourist sites, Treshan can take you pretty much everywhere and show you places you’ve never heard of!
For taxi service the price is around 0,45$/km but of course if you want to plan the entire holiday with him so he takes you all around the island, you can work out an itinerary all together and make a final price. 0,45$/km is just a rough estimated price for you to have an idea.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
There are a few buses running to and around Sigiriya so just look up which bus you need to take depending on where you are coming from.
TAXI/TUKTUK
We haven’t seen many proper taxis around Sigiriya but your hotel will definitely be able to arrange one for you in case you need it! Otherwise there are many local “TukTuk Taxis” so you can just try to stop one or ask the parked ones.
GROUP TOUR
If you are tight on time and want to make the most out of your time in Sigiriya in a shorter time, you can join a group tour. Here are some tours you can choose from:
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Even though Sri Lanka is an all year round destination, generally the best period to visit Sigiriya is between December and March. I said Sigiriya and not Sri Lanka, because thanks to the two different monsoons that hit the island, the country has inverted dry and rainy season between the two coasts.
So the best time to visit the west, the south and central Sri Lanka (including Sigiriya) is from December till March, while the best time to visit the east and the north is from April to September.
The most touristy part of the island with more things to visit is the west, the south and the central part of the island. So generally we would suggest to visit Sri Lanka from December-March. We have spent 1 month in Sri Lanka from January 11th until February 9th and only had 1 day of rain during the entire stay!
CURRENCY
Sri Lanka has their own currency – Sri Lankan Rupee.
1 EUR = 319 LKR
1 USD = 297 LKR
1 GBP = 374 LKR
We used Bank of Ceylon (BOC) for all of our withdrawals, as it didn’t charge us any commission. But that also depends on your bank. We usually use Revolut when we travel outside EU.
We recommend you to carry cash with you everywhere, as you won’t always be able to pay with card.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We recommend to book a travel insurance for every trip as you never know what could happen. It’s not easy to deal with any kind of problems when you are abroad, so it’s definitely worth it to be covered and travel with peace of mind.
We use IATI travel insurance and you can book yours through our link and receive 5% discount.
Book here if you are from EU: https://www.iatitravelinsurance.com/en-eu/?r=96181493877707
Book here if you are from outside EU (rest of the world): https://www.iatitravelinsurance.com/en/?r=96181493877707
CONTINUE READING OTHER TRAVEL GUIDES FROM SRI LANKA
We hope this blog post was helpful to you and you are gonna have a great time while exploring Sigiriya. For more pictures and videos check out our IG story highlight (Sigiriya) and our reels/feed posts. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to comment bellow or contact us via email or even better via Instagram @borntotraveldiaries. Thank you for your time and stay tuned for our next diary page 🙂.
