Sigiriya
Sigiriya Rock, rising 200 meters above the flat plains, offers one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Sri Lanka. At its summit lie the ruins of an ancient palace complex, constructed during the reign of King Kasyapa (477 AD – 495 AD), while the surrounding rock formations house the Royal Garden. Recognized as one of the 7 world heritage sites in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is a highly popular tourist destination.
The Sigiriya site comprises a 200-meter-tall granite rock, with sides so steep that in some places, the top extends over the base. The top of the rock features the remains of various chambers, stairways, and pools. A stone stairway leads from the base to the mountain's peak. At about halfway to the top, visitors can see the giant pair of lion paws, the remains of a colossal lion's head, whose open mouth served as the entrance to the royal palace. The palace complex is surrounded by the ruins of a garden complex, including two moats and several pools, some of which still have funct...
The Sigiriya site comprises a 200-meter-tall granite rock, with sides so steep that in some places, the top extends over the base. The top of the rock features the remains of various chambers, stairways, and pools. A stone stairway leads from the base to the mountain's peak. At about halfway to the top, visitors can see the giant pair of lion paws, the remains of a colossal lion's head, whose open mouth served as the entrance to the royal palace. The palace complex is surrounded by the ruins of a garden complex, including two moats and several pools, some of which still have funct...
