# Sigiriya: The Ancient Lion Rock Fortress

## Introduction
Sigiriya, the “Lion Rock,” is an ancient palace and fortress complex rising 200 meters above the surrounding plains. Built in the 5th century AD by King Kasyapa, this UNESCO World Heritage site combines advanced urban planning, architecture, art, and hydraulic engineering to create one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable historical monuments.

## Best Time to Visit
– December to March: Peak season with ideal weather conditions
– Early morning (6:30 AM – 9:00 AM): Best time for climbing to avoid heat
– Average climbing time: 2-3 hours
– Recommended visit duration: Full day

## Historical Significance

### Ancient History
– Built: 477-495 CE
– Builder: King Kasyapa
– Original purpose: Royal palace and fortress
– Later use: Buddhist monastery until 14th century
– Rediscovery: 1831 by British surveyors

### Archaeological Features
1. Ancient Urban Planning
– Symmetrical city layout
– Advanced water gardens
– Boulder gardens
– Terraced gardens

2. Architectural Marvels
– Mirror Wall
– Lion Gate
– Royal Palace ruins
– Frescoes
– Summit palace complex

## Must-See Attractions

### 1. Water Gardens
– Symmetrical water pavilions
– Ancient fountains (still functioning)
– Moats and pools
– Sophisticated hydraulic systems

### 2. Frescoes
– Ancient paintings of celestial maidens
– Located in a sheltered pocket of rock
– Vibrant colors preserved for 1,500 years
– 21 surviving paintings

### 3. Mirror Wall
– Ancient graffiti dating back centuries
– Polished white plaster
– Historical inscriptions
– Important archaeological record

### 4. Lion Platform
– Enormous lion paws
– Original entrance to palace
– Impressive stonework
– Panoramic views

### 5. Summit
– Palace ruins
– Royal swimming pool
– Throne area
– 360-degree views of surroundings

## Practical Visitor Information

### Tickets and Timing
– Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
– Last entry: 5:00 PM
– Foreign adult ticket: Approximately USD 30
– SAARC country visitors: Reduced rates
– Children under 12: Half price

### What to Bring
– Water bottles
– Sun protection
– Comfortable walking shoes
– Light clothing
– Camera
– Hat or cap
– Small towel

### Climbing Tips
1. Start early to avoid heat
2. Take regular breaks
3. Stay hydrated
4. Follow marked paths
5. Respect safety barriers

## Nearby Attractions

### 1. Pidurangala Rock
– Alternative viewpoint of Sigiriya
– Ancient temple
– Less crowded
– Cheaper entrance fee
– Sunrise viewing spot

### 2. Dambulla Cave Temple
– 30 minutes drive
– Ancient Buddhist temple
– Cave paintings
– Buddha statues
– UNESCO World Heritage site

## Accommodation Options

### Luxury
– Jetwing Vil Uyana
– Water Garden Sigiriya
– Aliya Resort & Spa
– Sigiriya Jungles

### Mid-Range
– Hotel Sigiriya
– Fresco Water Villa
– Kassapa Lions Rock
– Sigiri Rock Side Home Stay

### Budget
– Back of Beyond – Pidurangala
– Sigiriya Village
– Various guesthouses
– Homestays

## Transportation

### Getting There
– From Colombo: 4-5 hours by car
– From Kandy: 2.5-3 hours by car
– From Dambulla: 30 minutes by car
– Public buses available from major cities
– Private tours and taxis readily available

### Local Transport
– Tuk-tuks
– Bicycle rental
– Walking paths
– Local buses

## Cultural Etiquette
– Dress modestly
– Remove shoes at religious sites
– Ask permission before photographing people
– Respect sacred areas
– Follow local customs

## Photography Tips
1. Best morning light: 6:30-8:00 AM
2. Sunset shots from Pidurangala
3. Permitted areas for drone photography
4. Special permission needed for commercial photography
5. Best viewpoints marked on maps

## Safety Considerations
– Stay on marked paths
– Follow guide instructions
– Beware of hornets (seasonal)
– Keep hydrated
– Use handrails where provided
– Watch for weather changes

## Environmental Responsibility
– No littering
– Stay on designated paths
– Respect wildlife
– Minimize plastic use
– Support local conservation efforts

## Local Experiences
– Village tours
– Traditional cooking classes
– Agriculture demonstrations
– Craft workshops
– Bird watching

## Emergency Contacts
– Site Office: (specific number)
– Tourist Police: 1912
– Emergency: 119
– Nearest Hospital: Dambulla Hospital
– Tourist Information Center: (specific number)