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Sigiriya

An ancient royal citadel rising from the jungles of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic rock summit, exquisite frescoes, and legendary engineering marvels.

4.6

248,732 reviews

Details of Sigiriya rock fortress

Open now 

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible toilet 

Wheelchair-accessible car park 

Wheelchair-accessible entrance 

Children

Good for kids 

Parking

Paid parking lot 

Free parking lot 

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Overview - Sigiriya

Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic archaeological treasures. Rising 200 meters above lush forests and ancient royal gardens, this monumental rock citadel served as the fortified palace of King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD. Its blend of breathtaking natural beauty, masterful engineering, and deep historical significance makes it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle.

Visitors can climb a series of winding stairways that lead past world-famous frescoes, the Mirror Wall with ancient inscriptions, and massive lion-paw terraces before reaching the summit. From the top, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape stretch for miles, offering an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re drawn by history, architecture, photography, or adventure, Sigiriya delivers a captivating journey into Sri Lanka’s royal past.

Tags/ Categories

UNESCO HeritageHistorical SitesNature & ViewsHiking & ClimbingAdventureCouplesFamily FriendlySolo TravelCultural Attraction

Highlights

Sigiriya mirror wall-image

Sigiriya mirror wall

Sigiriya lion's paw-image

Sigiriya lion's paw

Sigiriya frescoes-image

Sigiriya frescoes

Sigiriya boulder gardens-image

Sigiriya boulder gardens

Nearby Attractions

Dambulla Cave Temple-image
UNESCO Heritage

Dambulla Cave Temple

4.6

248,732 reviews

A popular sunrise hike offering the best panoramic view of Sigiriya Rock. Ideal for adventure lovers and photographers.

Pidurangala Rock-image
Hiking / Scenic Viewpoint

Pidurangala Rock

4.6

248,732 reviews

A popular sunrise hike offering the best panoramic view of Sigiriya Rock. Ideal for adventure lovers and photographers.

Minneriya National Park-image
Wildlife / Safari

Minneriya National Park

4.6

248,732 reviews

A popular sunrise hike offering the best panoramic view of Sigiriya Rock. Ideal for adventure lovers and photographers.

Ritigala Forest Monastery-image
Historical Site

Ritigala Forest Monastery

4.6

248,732 reviews

A popular sunrise hike offering the best panoramic view of Sigiriya Rock. Ideal for adventure lovers and photographers.

Navigations

Sigiriya, Matale District, Central Province, Sri Lanka.

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Reviews

SH

Shimurasaki

One the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. Absolutely loved it! It was a bit crowded but still worth the visit. Tourists pay so much more compared to the locals, $35 per person! No need to buy tickets in advance.

a month ago

OL

Oliver Kaftan

Absolutely stunning views, but be prepared for crowds! Climbing Sigiriya Rock is one of the highlights of Sri Lanka. The rock fortress...

a month ago

AS

Ashley Kappa

Such a great thing to do!! You get dropped off at the top car park and then have to walk to the ‘museum’ to buy tickets. Adults are $35USD and you can pay cash or card (visa and Mastercard accepted). Then head towards the rock and climb...

a month ago

ER

Eric Lucrezia

Phenomenal experience at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wear good shoes and bring water. It’s kind of like Machu Picchu.

2 weeks ago

LU

Lukasz Kurowski

Magnificent place to visit. Tremendous views from the top. $35 per foreign adult. The hiking itself might be challenging if you not in shape. However we are in our 40s and slightly above average and did it from ticket office to the top in...

3 months ago

Y

Y S

It’s my 2nd time visiting Sigiriya after 12 years. Still it is gorgeous and the forest around Sigiriya is really beautiful. I can say Sri Lanka is a beautiful land after I visit Sigiriya.

2 months ago

CH

Chathura Jayasinghe

Sigiriya, often called the Lion Rock Fortress, is one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable ancient monuments, built during the 5th century AD by King Kashyapa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site served as a royal palace and fortress, displaying a...

2 months ago

NU

Nurseit Niyazbekov

This is definitely a must visit place in whole of Sri Lanka. The place is hugely impressive and worthy of $35 visiting it. The safety of the climbing steps is not the best in the world so be aware. The view from the rock is breathtaking and...

a month ago

FR

François F.

Crucial break in sri lanka. 1200 Steps to reach the top with easy access by feet. Wonderfull view site. One advice : start the visit at 5am to contemplate the sunrising. Avoid during day or sunset, too much People.

2 months ago