Sigiriya — Travel Guide
Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. The name refers to a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock nearly 200 metres high. According to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle the Culavamsa, this site was selected by King Kasyapa (477 – 495 CE) for his new capital. He built his palace on the top of this rock and decorated its sides with colourful frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the side of this rock he built a gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The name of this place is derived from this structure —Sihagiri, the Lion Rock. The capital and the royal palace was abandoned after the king's death. It was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century.
The best time to visit October to March.
By Air
Colombo in Sri Lanka is the nearest airport to Sigiriya (169 kms).
There are the usual tourist souvenir shops with a few worthwhile articles but make sure you bargain for every item that you buy; most of them will be overpriced to start with. Warm clothes (secondhand) are also available, in case you've forgotten to pack in the woolens. Artisans and craftspeople, including wood carvers and sculptors, are based at this government-run crafts village about midway between Inamaluwa and Sigiriya.
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