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Sigiriya Rock Fortress or Ravana Fort is a 200-metre-high rock fortress built during the reign of King Kashyapa I in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka. This marvellous place comprised the Lion’s Gate, which formed the entrance in the shape of a lion’s head and paws, the mirror wall, frescoes, water gardens, and a royal palace enshrined within the fortress. Some polished surfaces are now partially covered by graffiti and frescoes. Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse of Sinhalese civilization. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress review is amusing which will compel you to explore this gem.
Location
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The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sri Lanka is within the Matale District. The site is not far from major cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Anuradhapura. Sigiriya stands in a plain area surrounded by thick forest and agricultural land, elevated for a clear view. It belongs to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, an area rich in historical and cultural value.
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How To Reach Sigiriya Rock Fortress
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From Colombo: The distance to Sigiriya is approximately 170 kilometres and takes around 3.5 to 4 hours by car. To reach it, take the A1 road from Colombo to Kurunegala and switch to the A6 road.
From Kandy: The journey to Sigiriya takes approximately 90 kilometres by car or 2 to 2.5 hours by bus, with the latter being accessible from Dambulla.
From Anuradhapura: The distance to Sigiriya is approximately 85 kilometres, taking 1.5-2 hours by car or bus.
Places To Visit In And Around Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Several fascinating sites and attractions complement the historical and cultural significance of the Ravana Fort in Sri Lanka itself.
1. Dambulla Cave Temple
Photo: Michael Gunther / Wikimedia Commons
The Dambulla Cave Temple is the oldest and largest cave temple complex, about 20 km south of Sigiriya. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each of the five significant caves has some unique characteristics. The caves are renowned for their numerous murals with scenes of Buddhist cosmology, the life of Buddha, and stories of the Jatakas. These temples are hewn directly into the rock and entirely covered in intricate artwork and statuary, blending early Sinhalese and Indian architecture.
Location: 20 km from Siliriya
How To Reach: The nearest train station is in Dambulla, visitors can take a local tuk-tuk or taxi
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2. Minneriya National Park
Photo:Walter Gehr / Wikimedia Commons
Minneriya National Park is a wildlife sanctuary with great biodiversity and scenic beauty. It is most famous for the annual ‘Great Elephant Gathering’ event, which drives several elephants into the Minneriya Tank — a reservoir built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD. It has a large population of Asian elephants, other mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, and a mixture of tropical dry-zoned forest, grassland, and scrubland. The park is under the purview of the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
Things To Do: Wildlife safari
Location: 27 km from Siliriya
How To Reach: The nearest train station is in Habarana, visitors can take a local tuk-tuk or taxi
3. Habarana
Photo: Chulani Iddawela / Wikimedia Commons
Habarana is a small town in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, making it an ideal place to start wildlife safaris and cultural excursions. It lies between the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, close to Sigiriya. Historical sites like Sigiriya are famed for their rock fortress, while Polonnaruwa houses well-preserved ruins of an ancient town. The Ritigala ancient monastery complex brings visitors into the heart of ancient Buddhist monastic life. Habarana is also a treasure trove for natural beauty, having lakes, reservoirs, and scenic landscapes.
Things To Do: Village Exploration
Location: 15 km from Siliriya
How To Reach: The nearest train station is in Habarana, visitors can take a local tuk-tuk or taxi
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4. Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs
Photo: Ruben Hanssen / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs lie in the Central Province of Sri Lanka and date back to the Iron Age. The site comprises a series of megalithic tombs, both cist graves and urn burials, constructed with large stone slabs. Excavations have come up with numerous artefacts, such as pottery, tools, iron implements, and jewellery and ornaments, which throw light on the routine life, commerce, and technical skills of the people who used these tombs. In addition, this site also exposes the skeletal remains, pointing to a structured and ritualistic approach to burials.
Things To Do: Explore the tomb
Location: 30 km from Siliriya
How To Reach: The nearest train station is in Dambulla, visitors can take a local tuk-tuk or taxi
5. Kaudulla National Park
Photo: KR Chrutti / Wikimedia Commons
Kaudulla National Park is a 6,900-hectare wildlife sanctuary established in 2002 in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The park is well known for having the most significant number of Asian elephant populations and elephant gatherings during specific seasons. The habitats in the park consist of tropical dry zone forests, grasslands, and wetlands, which utilise the Kaudulla Tank as an essential water source. It also hosts a variety of mammals, different types of birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The Department of Wildlife Conservation manages the park to preserve the flora and fauna from threats like poaching and habitat degradation.
Things To Do: Wildlife safari, birdwatching
Location: 45 km from Siliriya
How To Reach: The nearest train station is in Polonnaruwa, visitors can take a local tuk-tuk or taxi
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Where To Stay
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Colombo has many accommodation facilities near the Sigiriya Lion Fort, suiting different budgets and tastes. Some recommended places to stay here are Hotel Sigiriya, EKHO Sigiriya, Pinthu Home Stay, Back of Beyond Jungle Hideaway and The Green Heavens. To have a good, hassle-free experience, ensure you book in advance, and consider proximity to the local attractions, dining options, and public transport.
Where To Eat
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Sigiriya Lion Rock offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries to upscale restaurants. Notable ones include the Sigiriya Village Hotel Restaurant, Café Ceylon, Rithu Restaurant, Space Restaurant, Hotel Sigiriya Restaurant, Fresco Water Villa Restaurant, and the Lion’s Rock Café.
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Best Time To Visit
Photo: Oleksandr P / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Ravana Fort in Sri Lanka offers panoramic views with immense historical importance. The best time to visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress is during the dry season, from January to April when the weather is clear and perfect for climbing.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
The trip to Sigiriya Rock includes entrance fees for foreigners and Sri Lankan citizens, transportation costs for private cars or taxis, and public transport for buses or trains. The estimated total cost for a typical day trip from Colombo or Kandy is around LKR 25,000 (₹7030.4) – LKR 60,000 (₹16873) per person, depending on the time of year, availability, and personal preferences.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothes, sun protection, and respectful attire. Hydrate yourself with water and snacks, and have enough cash in local currency.
- Prepare for the steep climb and follow safety instructions.
- Consider hiring local guides or audio guides for historical context and stories.
- Respect the site by adhering to marked paths and keeping the site clean.
- Check for permissions for photography and be mindful of other visitors.
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Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a testament to human ingenuity and a masterpiece of ancient architecture, continues to enchant visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty and rich history. As you plan your journey to this wonder of the world, let TripXL, your trusted travel companion, assist you in crafting an itinerary that perfectly captures the essence of Sri Lanka. Discover the magic of Sigiriya and beyond with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Kelum Chathuranga / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
