Sigiriya is one of eight UNESCO World Heritage sites in Sri Lanka, and the most visited historical attraction in the country. Located in the Central Province, it is an indispensable stop along the renowned Cultural Triangle circuit. Typically, multi-day itineraries through historic Sri Lanka also include the sacred city of Kandy and the impressive ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.
Out of all the sites we visited within Sri Lanka, Sigiriya was the most unique, and certainly my favorite. The name means Lion Rock in Sinhalese, and it refers to a massive 660 foot-tall rock that juts out prominently in an otherwise monotonous jungle plain. During the reign of King Kasyapa (477-495 CE), the capital was moved from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya, and he initiated the construction of an elaborate palace both on the summit as well as in the immediate surroundings of the rock.
A moat and other defensive measures were established, as well as a complex system of gardens, pools, fountains, and reservoirs. Much of the surface and subsurface hydraulic networks still function to this very day, and they remain a testament to the sophisticated engineering that was required for construction.
Sigiriya moat
Gardens and fountains
Pool
The rock itself can be seen for miles in the distance. As you walk through the main western gate and pass the intricate water gardens, it becomes clear just how massive it really is. Although not nearly as large as Uluru in Australia, the prominence with respect to their surroundings is similar.
Walking towards Sigiriya
As you approach the foot of Sigiriya, massive boulders and winding paths form the boulder gardens. Some of these were hand cut and even had buildings and pavilions over and under them. After the reign of Kasyapa ended in defeat, much of the Sigiriya complex reverted back to a Buddhist monastery. A large number of the remaining ruins surrounding these boulders endure from this period.
