Journey to the Lion Rock Sigiriya

Posted by KavindiHansika on January 22nd, 2020

Sigiriya Rock Fortress is the premier site and the most important place of the Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka. The Lion Rock – Sigiriya has a really special shape, is nearly 200 meters high, and rises mysteriously from the jungle. The rock satisfies both adrenaline freaks, the history buffs, art people and those who are looking for a great view. Whatever attitude you bring to the rock, you won`t be disappointed! Sigiriya Rock Fortress was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1982. All the natural cave shelters and rock overhangs throughout the rock were inhabited in prehistoric times. A myth says that King Kashyapa (AD 477-495) chose Sigiriya to be the capital of Sri Lanka, and built a garden and an unassailable palace on top of the rock, after killing his father King Dhatusena. The capital and the royal palace were abandoned after the king’s death, and was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century. Surrounding the Lion Rock is the beautiful royal gardens, including water gardens, boulder gardens and terraced gardens. It`s a lovely place to sit and listen to the songs of birds and gentle gurgle of water. Great view all the way up, and the path is pretty airy some places. Halfway up the rock is a cave full of beautiful and impressive paintings of naked women, believed to be either Apsaras (celestial nymphs) or King Kashyapa concubines. What is so remarkable about the paintings, is their color and brightness. It`s incredible that they are in such a good condition. It`s as their color is glowing! On top there is even a smooth stone slab that looks just like a king`s throne, although it was probably just another meditation spot. Even though it is the perfect spot to sit and gaze far away over the jungle and breathe in the fresh jungle air, just as King Kassapa (or Buddhist monks) probably did 1500 years ago!

Pidurangala Rock is hard to miss, as it’s situated right next to Sigiriya Rock Fortress! However, it is in itself a very impressive site to behold. It is almost as high and also offers breathtaking views out across the surrounding forestland. Many people choose to climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress early in the morning and then walk up Pidurangala Rock to catch the sunset.

The Dambulla Cave Temple is a must see if you don't miss out on Sigiriya Tour. The small town of Dambulla is a nice place to visit. And what do you do whilst there? See the Dambulla Cave Temple of course! It is a very unique spot that houses more than a hundred Buddha statues, all perfectly carved and preserved inside of individual cave temples. There are 5 caves in total, each containing unique designs.

It’s worth hiring a guide to show you around. Can learn you more about the spot’s incredible historical significance. We invite you to join with http://www.sherinelankatours.com/ for a travel guide.