Sigiriya: The Majestic Rock Fortress of Sri Lanka
Discover the breathtaking Sigiriya Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history, nature, and stunning views converge in Sri Lanka.
Nestled amidst lush greenery, Sigiriya is a stunning ancient rock fortress that offers a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history. Climb to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views and explore the remnants of a once-thriving royal citadel adorned with remarkable frescoes and intricate gardens.
A brief summary to Sigiriya
- Sigiriya, LK
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your climb early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the ascent involves steep steps and rocky terrain.
- Bring plenty of water and a camera to capture the stunning views from the top.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
- Visit during the off-peak season for a more serene experience.
Getting There
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Car
From Dambulla, take the A9 road heading north. Continue for about 15 kilometers until you reach the turn-off for Sigiriya. Follow the signs towards Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The drive will take approximately 30 minutes. Once you reach Sigiriya, there is a designated parking area near the entrance of the fortress. Parking fees may apply, typically around 300 LKR.
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Public Bus
From Dambulla, head to the Dambulla bus station and look for buses heading to Sigiriya. Buses leave frequently throughout the day, and the journey takes about 30 to 45 minutes. The cost of a one-way ticket is usually around 50 LKR. Make sure to inform the bus conductor that you want to get off at Sigiriya. The bus will drop you off near the entrance of the Sigiriya site.
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Tuk-Tuk
For a more comfortable ride, you can hire a tuk-tuk from Dambulla. Negotiate the fare before starting your trip; it should typically cost between 1,000 to 1,500 LKR one way. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and the tuk-tuk will take you directly to the entrance of Sigiriya. This option is great if you want a private transport experience.
Discover more about Sigiriya
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
RAVAN PLASE
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Sigiri Rock
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Explore Sigiri Rock, an ancient fortress in Sri Lanka, where history, art, and breathtaking views converge in a stunning natural landscape.
Awdangawa
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Discover Awdangawa in Sigiriya, a stunning hiking area that beckons nature lovers with its breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.
Rock View Elephant Sufari RAVI SIGIRIYA
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Discover the enchanting world of elephants at Rock View Elephant Safari in Sigiriya – a unique wildlife experience awaits in Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.
Ancient Bodhi near Sigiriya
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Explore the Ancient Bodhi tree near Sigiriya, a sacred landmark steeped in Sri Lanka's rich cultural and spiritual history, surrounded by tranquil beauty.
Mapagala Fortress
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Explore the historic Mapagala Fortress in Sigiriya, a serene landmark with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Kings gallery sigiriya
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Experience the rich flavors of Sri Lanka at Kings Gallery Sigiriya, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views of Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Sigiriya Village Hotel
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Sigiriya Village Hotel, where comfort and culture meet near the breathtaking Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Sigiriya Fortress - Ticket Counter (For Locals)
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Discover the breathtaking Sigiriya Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing ancient Sri Lankan history, stunning architecture, and panoramic views.
Yan Oya (යාන් ඔය)
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Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Yan Oya, a captivating landmark in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, perfect for cultural enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Sigiriya Rock Hide
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Discover the beauty and history of Sigiriya at Sigiriya Rock Hide, your cozy retreat near Sri Lanka's iconic rock fortress.
Royal Rock Sigiriya
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Discover luxury and adventure at Royal Rock Sigiriya, your gateway to the enchanting landscapes and heritage of Sri Lanka.
Sigiriya local car park
1.8 km
Explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress with convenient and free parking at the Sigiriya local car park, your gateway to ancient wonders.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sigiriya Lion Rock
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Discover the breathtaking Sigiriya Lion Rock, an ancient fortress with stunning frescoes and panoramic views, a must-see in Sri Lanka.
Highest point of Sigiriya Rock
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Explore the stunning Sigiriya Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where history, culture, and breathtaking views converge in Sri Lanka.
Sigiriya palace
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Explore the ancient Sigiriya Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning rock formations, historical significance, and breathtaking views in Sri Lanka.
Sigiriya Frescoes (480 AD)
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Explore the breathtaking Sigiriya Frescoes, a 5th-century marvel reflecting Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and artistry amidst stunning landscapes.
Lion's Paw
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Explore the Lion's Paw, an extraordinary historical landmark in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship and breathtaking views.
Cobra Hood Cave | Sigiriya
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Explore the Cobra Hood Cave in Sigiriya, a captivating historical landmark revealing Sri Lanka's ancient heritage and stunning natural beauty.
Entrance Walkway
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Discover the breathtaking Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress in Sri Lanka offering stunning views, rich history, and mesmerizing frescoes.
Sigiriya - Audience Hall
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Discover the historical allure of Sigiriya's Audience Hall, where ancient architecture meets breathtaking landscapes in Sri Lanka's iconic Lion Rock.
Preaching Rock | Sigiriya
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Explore the breathtaking Preaching Rock of Sigiriya, a historical landmark showcasing ancient artistry amidst stunning natural beauty.
Summer Palace
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Explore the Summer Palace in Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting ancient architecture, stunning views, and rich Sri Lankan history.
Sigiriya Tank
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Experience the tranquil beauty of Sigiriya Tank, a picturesque oasis near the iconic Sigiriya Rock, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Water Fountains | Sigiriya
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Explore the mesmerizing ancient water fountains at Sigiriya, a remarkable blend of history, engineering, and natural beauty in Sri Lanka.
Water Garden - Sigiriya
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Explore the tranquil Water Garden in Sigiriya, a historical landmark blending nature's beauty with ancient engineering marvels.
Sigiriya - Pidurangala Wildlife Sanctuary
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Explore the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife of Sigiriya - Pidurangala Wildlife Sanctuary, a natural treasure in Sri Lanka.
Sudath Safari & Tours Sri Lanka
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Discover Sri Lanka's wildlife and natural beauty with Sudath Safari & Tours, where unforgettable adventures await in stunning national parks.
Essential places to dine
Ranketha Traditional Food
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Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Ranketha Traditional Food in Sigiriya – a delightful culinary journey amidst stunning landscapes.
One Love Sigiriya Restaurant
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Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at One Love Sigiriya Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions.
In To The Wild
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Experience authentic Indian cuisine at In To The Wild in Sigiriya - where rich flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sigiriya Lion Face
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Discover the stunning Sigiriya Lion Face - a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking views in Sri Lanka.
Saffron place lake
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Discover authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Saffron Place Lake in Sigiriya - where every meal is a journey through flavors.
Soul Food
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Discover delightful vegetarian dishes at Soul Food in Sigiriya—where local flavors meet eco-friendly dining in a charming setting.
Chill and hot restaurant sigiriya
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Discover authentic Asian cuisine at Chill and Hot Restaurant in Sigiriya - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Sigiri Rock View Point - the Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Sigiri Rock View Point - your perfect dining escape in Sigiriya.
Little hut sigiriya
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Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Little Hut in Sigiriya, where every meal offers breathtaking views and warm hospitality.
Culinary crafts cafe restaurant
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Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Culinary Crafts Cafe in Sigiriya - where every dish tells a story.
Sigiriya Wew Thawulla Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine with breathtaking views at Sigiriya Wew Thawulla Restaurant - a culinary treasure near ancient ruins.
New Tharumila Family Restaurant
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Savor authentic Sri Lankan flavors at New Tharumila Family Restaurant in Sigiriya – where every meal tells a story.
The Downtown Gastropub
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Discover the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka at The Downtown Gastropub in Sigiriya – where local meets global culinary delights.
Chooti Restaurant Sigiriya
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Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Chooti Restaurant in Sigiriya – a budget-friendly culinary haven amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Pradeeprestaurant
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Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Pradeep Restaurant in Sigiriya – where every meal is a journey into local flavors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Local crafts
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant local crafts of Sigiriya, featuring unique handmade treasures that showcase the artistry and culture of Sri Lanka.
Nilini cafe
0.7 km
Discover the sweet side of Sigiriya at Nilini Cafe, a delightful cake shop nestled near the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
DOLF TATTOO
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Experience the art of tattooing at Dolf Tattoo in Sigiriya, where your travel memories come to life through stunning body art.
Espresso Italiano
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Discover the rich flavors of Sri Lanka at Espresso Italiano, the perfect coffee retreat in Sigiriya for every traveler.
Lanka Souvenirs
1.0 km
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Wood Carving Work Shop
1.7 km
Explore the artistry of wood carvings in Sigiriya, where tradition meets craftsmanship in stunning handmade pieces.
සිතුවමක ඇ...
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Bandara Stores
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Raj talkies Sri Lanka
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Sujan Sujee
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Kundan
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Amal Dinusha
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Mal Kade Palagolla
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Kirana dukaan Fiza general Store
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Aiswarya stores
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gala Addara Cafe Sigiriya
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Café Bam Bam - The Restaurant & Bar Sigiriya
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The Tea Bar Sigiriya
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Samarakoon Hotel Sigiriya
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La Dolce Vita
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Gamigedara
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Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Gamigedara, a culinary haven in Sigiriya, perfect for food lovers and adventurers alike.
Island Vibes Lounge
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Discover the enchanting Island Vibes Lounge in Sigiriya - a bohemian paradise offering delicious BBQ and refreshing cocktails amidst lush surroundings.
cappuccino bistro.
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Discover Cappuccino Bistro in Sigiriya, a delightful cafe offering exceptional coffee, delicious food, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Kaluwara Restaurant (Ishy Restaurent) SIGIRIYA
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Discover the rich flavors of Sri Lanka at Kaluwara Restaurant in Sigiriya, where every meal is a journey through local culinary traditions.
Ranithu Restaurant
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Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Ranithu Restaurant, a must-visit culinary gem near Sigiriya, perfect for travelers seeking taste and ambiance.
Coconut Shades Restaurant Sigiriya
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The Lion Kingdom Restaurant & Bar
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VISU VILLA BAR & RESTAURANT
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Discover the unique charm of Visu Villa Bar & Restaurant in Habarana, where nature meets culinary excellence in a serene setting.
Pool Bar Al Forno
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Chill & Swing
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Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka at Chill & Swing, Habarana's premier dining destination with a vibrant atmosphere and exquisite dishes.
