Sigiriya Rock Fortress
A 5th-century palace and fortress built on top of a massive rock rising about 180 m above the jungle. See the water gardens, the Mirror Wall, ancient frescoes and the summit ruins.
Get a Quote for Sigiriya Rock FortressAbout Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Sigiriya was built in the 5th century AD by King Kashyapa, who made a palace on top of a huge granite rock. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in Sri Lanka. The visit begins in the symmetrical water gardens, then climbs past the Mirror Wall and the famous frescoes of women in the rock, to the Lion's Paws gateway and the final steep staircases. At the top are the ruins of the palace and wide views over the forest. The climb is around 1,200 steps, and it is best done early.
Highlights
- ✅ Climb to the summit ruins
- ✅ Ancient frescoes
- ✅ Mirror Wall
- ✅ Lion's Paws gateway
- ✅ Royal water gardens
- ✅ Views from nearby Pidurangala Rock
Travel Tips
- Arrive when the site opens to avoid the heat and the crowds
- Bring water, a hat and comfortable shoes
- For a view of Sigiriya Rock itself, ask us about Pidurangala Rock nearby
- Check the current ticket price for foreign visitors before you go, as it can change
More places to visit
Sinharaja Rain Forest
Sri Lanka's last large tract of primary lowland rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk with a local guide to spot endemic birds, colourful frogs, butterflies and giant trees in a cool, shaded forest.
Pilgrimage & HikingAdam's Peak (Sri Pada)
A 2,243 m sacred mountain revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Christians. Climb by night to reach the summit for sunrise and the famous triangular shadow of the peak.
WildlifeUdawalawe National Park
One of the most reliable places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants. Open grassland around a large reservoir makes jeep safaris easy and sightings frequent.