Sigiriya - Srilanka

Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress located in central Sri Lanka. It’s one of the country’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site consists of a massive rock column that rises nearly 200 meters (660 feet) above the surrounding landscape. Sigiriya is believed to have been used as a royal palace and a fortress by King Kashyapa in the 5th century CE.

The main attraction is the rock itself, which features a variety of historical and cultural sites, including:

The Lion’s Gate: The entrance to the site, where you can see remnants of a giant lion’s paws carved into the rock. It is said to be the base of a large statue of a lion that once stood at the entrance.

The Frescoes: Beautiful ancient frescoes (paintings) of celestial maidens, or “Apsaras,” can be found on the walls of Sigiriya. These are considered masterpieces of ancient Sri Lankan art.

The Mirror Wall: This is a highly polished wall that once reflected the images of visitors, and is now inscribed with ancient poems and writings from past visitors.

The Water Gardens: At the base of the rock, you’ll find an elaborate system of water gardens, fountains, and pools, which were part of the royal palace’s landscape.

The Summit: On top of Sigiriya rock, the ruins of an ancient palace can be found, with sweeping views of the surrounding area, including the lush forest and nearby lakes.

Sigiriya is not just a cultural and historical wonder but also offers a fantastic hiking experience with rewarding views from the top. Would you like to know more about visiting Sigiriya or its history?