Sigiriya, a small town in Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is rich in history and culture. Not only is it famous for its ancient rock fortress, but it is also home to stunning natural beauty and a vibrant local community. Taking a walking tour is an excellent way to explore Sigiriya’s hidden gems, learn about its fascinating past and immerse yourself in the local way of life. In this post, we will introduce you to the 1 best walking tours in Sigiriya so that you can make the most of your visit and experience the town’s unique charm.
The 1 Best Walking Tours in Sigiriya
The 1 Best Walking Tours in Sigiriya
1. Sigiriya: Rock Fortress Guided Walking Tour
Experience the beauty and wonder of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress with the guided walking tour. The tour includes a visit to the 5th-century palace complex of the king where you can see the ruins of swimming pools, other constructions, and the top of the rock. Admire the landscaped garden with fountains, pools, and cave with paintings, and see the 5th-century frescoes of ancient artisans in the Fresco Pocket. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the massive lion’s head and paws which dominate the entrance of the fortress.
The tour is guided by an experienced local guide who will provide detailed and informative commentary at each stop of the fort complex. The walking tour starts at a picturesque miniature water garden and ends at the eastern gate of the Sigiriya archaeological site. You will visit miniature water gardens, swimming pools, and boulder gardens along the way. The tour includes hiking aid and the entrance ticket, so you don’t have to worry about additional fees.
Please note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women and people with back, heart, or mobility problems. Make sure to wear hiking shoes and bring water for the 1 kilometer walk on flat land and 1200 steps. The tour will take place rain or shine, so be prepared for any weather conditions.
Join the Sigiriya Rock Fortress Guided Walking Tour and experience the unique beauty and historical significance of one of Sri Lanka’s most important cultural attractions.
Everything You Need to Know About Sigiriya: Frequently Asked Questions
Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka. The ancient rock fortress is surrounded by lush green forests and a beautiful moat that makes it a popular attraction for tourists from all over the world. Let’s delve into the most commonly asked questions about Sigiriya.
1. What is the history of Sigiriya?
Sigiriya was built in the 5th century by King Kasyapa, who ascended to the throne of Sri Lanka by overthrowing his own father. He wanted to showcase his power and authority to the people, which led him to construct the rock fortress on the summit of a 660-foot-tall granite rock.
The fortress was abandoned after Kasyapa’s death, and for many years, it was used as a Buddhist monastery. In the 14th century, the site was completely abandoned and became overgrown by the surrounding forest.
2. How can I get to Sigiriya?
The nearest airport to Sigiriya is in Colombo, which is approximately 160 km away. From Colombo, you can take a taxi or a bus to Sigiriya. The journey takes around 3-4 hours.
You can also take the train to Habarana or Dambulla, both of which are near Sigiriya. From there, you can take a tuk-tuk or hire a taxi to get to Sigiriya.
3. What is the best time to visit Sigiriya?
The best time to visit Sigiriya is between November and April, which is the dry season in Sri Lanka. The weather is sunny and pleasant during this time, which makes it ideal for exploring the rock fortress.
However, if you don’t mind the rain, you can also visit Sigiriya during the off-season. The rain makes the surrounding greenery more vibrant and creates beautiful waterfalls.
4. What are the opening hours of Sigiriya?
Sigiriya is open from 7 am to 5:30 pm daily. The last admission to the site is at 4:30 pm.
5. How much does it cost to visit Sigiriya?
The entrance fee for Sigiriya varies for foreigners and locals. For foreigners, the entrance fee is $30, while locals pay only $15. Children under the age of 12 can enter for free.
6. Can I climb to the top of Sigiriya?
Yes, visitors are allowed to climb to the top of Sigiriya. However, the climb is challenging and not recommended for people with mobility issues or fear of heights.
There are over 1,200 steps to the top, and it takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete the entire climb. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and shoes and taking plenty of water and sunscreen.
7. What can I see at the top of Sigiriya?
The view from the top of Sigiriya is simply breathtaking. From the summit, you can see panoramic views of the surrounding forests and countryside.
You can also see the ruins of the ancient palace and other structures that were built on the rock. The most famous structure is the Lion Gate, which is a massive stone carving of a lion’s head that served as the entrance to the palace.
8. What else can I do at Sigiriya?
Aside from climbing to the top of the rock fortress, there are many other things to do at Sigiriya. You can explore the surrounding gardens, which were designed to represent the mythical Buddhist heaven of Tavatimsa.
You can also visit the Sigiriya Museum, which has a collection of artifacts found at the site, including sculptures, pottery, and other relics. The museum also has a model of Sigiriya, which provides a better understanding of the layout of the ancient palace.
Conclusion
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is a must-visit destination. With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, it is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the ancient Sri Lankan people.
Now that you know the most commonly asked questions about Sigiriya, you can plan your trip with confidence and make the most of your time at this incredible site.
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