Krystyna I.

4.0

Be ready to climb 1200 steps to reach the former residence of King Kassapa. There used to be luxurious gardens there, but now there are ruins and simply a nice view. :) On the way back, be sure to stop by to see the 1500 year-old frescoes. Therefore, don't return the same way you came up, but turn left. The ascent and descent will take you 2-3 hours, including all the accompanying activities. Don't forget sunscreen and water. Entry is $35, which, in my opinion, isn't a fair price for such an activity. But it's still worth seeing this UNESCO World Heritage site :)

Mr

4.0

What a fantastic place. I visited in October so during the off season which was a blessing " absolutely no crowds " The price may seem a little steep but by the time you've experienced it, that'll seem pretty insignificant. The views are amazing both from up ontop and throughout the gardens, even before you enter stop to appreciate the manicured landscape and surrounding moat.

Kanish

5.0

Sigiriya Lion Rock is easily one of the most extraordinary places I’ve visited. The moment you enter the site, you’re surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens that were centuries ahead of their time. The climb is a journey in itself—every level reveals something new, from ancient stairways carved into the rock to the world-famous frescoes that still retain their vibrant colors despite being over a thousand years old. The engineering brilliance is unbelievable. As you climb higher, the massive lion’s paws carved into the stone create a sense of awe, hinting at the grandeur this fortress once held. And when you finally reach the top, the view takes your breath away. Looking out over endless greenery and quiet villages feels like stepping back into a forgotten kingdom. Sigiriya is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a cultural treasure that blends history, architecture, art, and nature in the most breathtaking way.

Anna Flowers

5.0

It’s quite a trek to the top of the rock, and it’s not for the faint hearted - but if you can persevere, the views and the experience once you get to the top, are definitely worth the knee trembling moments. The actual climb up is around 1200 steps, so can be tough going if you’re not overly fit, take water with you - although there’s a refill station on route. Once you get to the top, it’s absolutely amazing to see this incredible fort that was built 1600 years ago - this is right up there with Machu Picchu (built 600 years ago) but with engineering way before its time!

Niroshan

5.0

Sigiriya Travel Guide & Tips – Exploring the Lion Rock Sigiriya, famously known as the Lion Rock, is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa I, the massive rock fortress served as a royal palace and defensive stronghold. According to historical chronicles, Kashyapa seized the throne from his father and built Sigiriya as a secure and impressive capital to protect himself from rivals. After his death, it became a Buddhist monastery and continued to be a sacred site for centuries. Historical Highlights: The Lion Gate: The entrance to the fortress was once guarded by a colossal lion, of which only the giant paws remain today. The name “Lion Rock” originates from this impressive feature. Frescoes: Sigiriya is famous for its frescoes, depicting beautiful celestial maidens known as “Sigiriya Damsels,” painted with remarkable detail and vibrant colors that have survived over 1,500 years. Mirror Wall: A highly polished wall once reflected the king’s image and contains ancient graffiti, offering insight into the thoughts and culture of visitors from as far back as the 8th century. Water Gardens & Engineering: The surrounding gardens showcase sophisticated hydraulic engineering with symmetrical ponds, fountains, and pools – a marvel of ancient landscape architecture. Summit Palace: At the top, you’ll find the remains of the king’s palace and terraces. The vantage point provided a 360-degree view of the surrounding plains, ideal for defense and surveillance. Travel Tips & Practical Information: Parking: Local car park ~500m; for foreigners ~100m from the main entrance. Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 6:30 PM (tickets issued until 5:00 PM). Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat. Bring: Water, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera. Guides: Optional, but beware of scammers offering “easy paths.” Follow official routes. Climbing: Hundreds of steps, some narrow or steep. No wheelchair or alternative transport – it’s all on foot. Pace yourself and enjoy stops along the way. Nearby Attractions: Pidurangala Rock offers another spectacular viewpoint with fewer crowds. Why Visit Sigiriya? Sigiriya is a remarkable combination of history, art, and adventure. Climbing the rock is physically demanding, but every step is a walk through centuries of Sri Lanka’s cultural and architectural genius. From the gardens at its base to the stunning views at the summit, Sigiriya is truly unforgettable.