Sigiriya

Sigiriya is perched on a rocky outcrop in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle and was a rock-fortress built by King Kasyapa who reigned between 477 and 495 AD. He built a gateway in the form of a lion and named the structure Sigirya, meaning Lion Rock. Sigiriya was constructed when Kasyapa seized the throne in a coup and moved the capital from Anuradhapura to be more secure. He was indeed defeated, and Sigiriya was turned into a monastery. The walk up the rock includes 1202 steps and is best done in the morning or late afternoon. Before you attempt the climb, your chauffeur-guide will take you around the water gardens at the base of the rock and explain the incredible engineering that went into keeping them filled and point out the vast moat which was once filled with crocodiles. Halfway up you will see the Sigiriya maidens, a collection of 50 frescoes. Once you reach the summit, which will take approximately 45 minutes – 1 hour depending on your preferred pace, you will be rewarded with utterly awe-inspiring views across the rugged plains of the Cultural Triangle which are particularly picturesque at sunset or in the early morning light.

 

 

Itineraries

A Summer holiday in Sri Lanka

Horathapola - Kandy - Cultural Triangle - Wilpattu National Park - Trincomalee - Negombo  

Most people think Sri Lanka is just a winter-sun destination, but much of the north and east of the county is perfect in the summer months.

15 days from £3654 p. p.

Highlights of Sri Lanka

Negombo - Cultural Triangle - Hill Country - Galle  

For those wanting a quick introduction to Sri Lanka, then this suggested private tour might well be your answer. Explore the Ancient Cities, the Tea Country and end on the south coast beaches.

10 days from £1755 p. p.

Classic Sri Lanka

Negombo - Cultural Triangle - Kandy - Tea Country - Yala - Galle - Bentota  

This classic private tour of Sri Lanka takes in all the major highlights from the stunning cultural heritage of the north, the tea country, wildlife and laid-back beaches in the south.

13 days from £2595 p. p.

Related Hotels

Ulagalla

$ $ $ $ $ Cultural Triangle  

Ulagalla is the most unique and luxurious property in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, sitting mid-way between the main sites of Sigiriya, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.

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Water Dwellings At Dawn, Vil Uyana, Cultural Triangle, Sri Lanka

Vil Uyana

$ $ $ $ $ Cultural Triangle  

Vil Uyana is a luxury eco resort set amongst paddy fields just a few miles from Sigiriya in the Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka.

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Wildgrass

$ $ $ $ $ Cultural Triangle  

Wildgrass is located in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle allowing you to both reconnect with nature at this eco resort and explore Sri Lanka’s ancient cities.

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