Central Province
Sigiriya
The ancient Lion Rock fortress rising above the central plains.
About Sigiriya
Lion Rock is the single most recognisable sight in Sri Lanka — a sheer granite plug rising two hundred metres straight out of flat dry-zone forest, with a fifth-century royal citadel on top and frescoes part-way up.
Climb it at first light. By mid-morning the steps are crowded and the rock is genuinely hot. Nearby Pidurangala offers the better photograph of Sigiriya itself, for a fraction of the ticket price.
Getting to Sigiriya
North-east of Colombo through Kurunegala and Dambulla, on good main road most of the way. Groups touring the Cultural Triangle usually keep the same van and driver for several days.
Taxi transfers to and from Sigiriya
Fixed-price private transfers, quoted per trip. Tap a route for details.
