Sri Lanka, a treasure island in the Indian Ocean, attracts tourists from all over the world not only for its abundant natural resources and tropical scenery, but also for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Among the many historical sites in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is undoubtedly one of the most illustrious jewels.
Often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World, this ancient stone fortress attracts visitors from all over the world with its unique architecture and rich historical background.
Sigiriya, located in the Matalai district of central Sri Lanka, is an isolated rocky plateau surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of reservoirs and gardens. These gardens are said to be among the oldest in the world. Sigiriya was originally built by the Sri Lankan kings to build palaces and hide from the attacks of their brothers.
The existence of this fort not only shows the wisdom and courage of the ancient Sri Lankan people, but also proves their superb skills in architecture and garden design.
The lion's staircase leading to the palace garden at the top of the rock is a great feature of Sigiriya. This intricate tiled walkway juts out from a boulder carved with a lion's mouth, and thanks to its unique design and exquisite craftsmanship, the lion staircase is a rare geological and architectural wonder in Sigiriya.
Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its archaeological value speaks for itself. The murals and other paintings preserved on the rocks are outstanding examples of the classical realist school in Sri Lanka, which not only show the artistic achievements of the ancient Sri Lankan people, but also provide valuable historical information for future generations.
According to historical records, this rock fortress was built by King Kayapo and after his death, it was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century. Today, Sigiriya is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka and a must-see on tourists' itineraries.
The journey to Sigiriya is relatively easy, just 17 km from the small town of Dambulla. Although the climb can take longer due to crowds, it is important to visit in the morning to avoid the scorching sun and heat.
The best time to visit Sigiriya is from January to April every year, when the climate is pleasant to avoid the inconvenience of the monsoon season. Tickets** are approximately $30 and no special attire is required, but comfortable shoes are recommended for climbing.
Exploring Sigiriya is not only a look back at ancient civilizations, but also a baptism of the soul. Every stone and painting here tells the long history and culture of Sri Lanka, so that every visitor can feel the wisdom and artistic charm of the Sri Lankan people.
During your trip to Sri Lanka, don't miss out on this place full of mysteries.