Things To Do In Sigiriya

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from city center 1 out of 13
Things To Do in Sigiriya

Sigiriya Rock or the Lion Rock is the ancient fort that Sigiriya is known for. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and consists of a citadel and has ruins of palaces, the Lion Gate, gardens, moats, the Mirror Wall, and many beautiful frescoes (paintings made in wet plaster on walls).

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from city center 2 out of 13
Things To Do in Sigiriya

Sigiriya Museum is at the base of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and was established in 2009. The exhibits at Sigiriya Museum are not limited to the artifacts—they include photographs depicting Sigiriya's history, several informative videos, and models of the fortress. The highlight of the museum is the stunning and accurate recreation of the frescoes found at the fort.

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from city center 3 out of 13
Things To Do in Sigiriya

The Pidurangala Rock is a few kilometers away from the famous UNESCO site, the Sigiriya Rock. It is known for the view of Sigiriya Rock from the top of the rock, the white temple situated at the base of the cliff, and the enormous reclining Buddha statue located under an ancient boulder.

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Things To Do in Sigiriya

Perhaps the most iconic structure of the Sigiriya fortress, Lion’s Paws is situated just before the summit of Sigiriya Rock. As the name suggests, the structure is composed of two gigantic paws, flanking a staircase that leads to the royal palace.

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from city center 5 out of 13
Things To Do in Sigiriya

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also called the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the best-preserved and most extensive cave temple complex in the country, comprising five main caves, each possessing numerous statues of Lord Buddha and some figures of kings and statues of Lord Vishnu.

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Things To Do in Sigiriya

The Minneriya National Park is just 30 minutes away from Sigiriya. It is famous for its herds of elephants migrating for food, water, and shelter and forming a 'gathering' that can be witnessed by the visitors. The dry season is the best time to visit this place, as the majestic elephants migrate to the Minneriya Tank for water.

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Things To Do in Sigiriya

The stunning royal gardens surround the imposing rock fortress of Sigiriya comprising of lush greenery scattered with beautiful pools, fountains, giant boulders, and picturesque terraces. It is one of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world.

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Things To Do in Sigiriya

Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ancient city in Sri Lanka. The distance between Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa is approximately 50 kilometers, making it a convenient day trip from Sigiriya. Explore the ancient ruins, archaeological sites, and well-preserved monuments that showcase the grandeur of the ancient Kingdom of Polonnaruwa.

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from city center 9 out of 13
Things To Do in Sigiriya

Kaudulla National Park is renowned for its elephant gatherings, especially during the dry season (from August to December). It is also home to various bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. It boasts picturesque landscapes, including serene lakes, lush forests, and grassy plains. Located around 40 kilometers northeast of Sigiriya, it is easily accessible for a day trip.

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from city center 10 out of 13
Things To Do in Sigiriya

Located in the Central Province of the country, the Spice Garden in Inamaluwa houses a wide range of spices such as cardamom, black pepper, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, turmeric, cinnamon and cardamom. Visitors can gain insights on how these spices are grown on such a large scale.

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Things To Do in Sigiriya

Apart from hiking to the summit of Sigiriya Rock or merely marvelling at this imposing structure from below, an unconventional way to sightsee at Sigiriya is by the elephant rides.

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from city center 12 out of 13
Things To Do in Sigiriya

Anuradhapura is a historical paradise as it houses several heritage monasteries, palaces and monuments. It is known for its vast dagobas or brick stupas, ancient ponds and pools and magnificent temples. The city was established as the first capital of Sri Lanka in 377 BC. It was also at this time that Anuradhapura rose to prominence as a seat of political and economic importance.

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Things To Do in Sigiriya

Ritigala, situated between Polonnaruwa and the old town of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka, is a hilly forest and Buddhist worship. The monastery is named after the 40m tall Ritigala trees in the mid slopes of the hill; this Buddhist monastery has inscriptions that date back to 1st century BC.