Sigiriya is one of the most valuable historical monuments of Sri Lanka. Referred by locals as the Eighth Wonder of the World, this ancient palace and fortress complex has significant archaeological importance and attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is
probably the most visited tourist destination of Sri Lanka. Sigiriya Rock or the Lion Rock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a height of 660 feet, located in the Matale District in central Sri Lanka and lies between the towns Dambulla and Habarana. This rock fortress was built by King Kashyapa in the 5 th Century A.D. and was a royal citadel for more than 18 years. It is a complex of buildings, part
royal palace, part fortified town, and water gardens on par with the best in the ancient world. In a sheltered pocket approached by a spiral stairway are the famous sigiriya frescoes, the earliest surviving pictorial art of Sri Lanka and of the same period as the
Ajantha frescoes of India. Nearby, also on the walls of the rock face, are well over 1,000 items of graffiti, scratched by monks and pilgrims who visited the site in the eighth to the 13th centuries. The Summit of the rock with an area of nearly one hectare was the site of
the palace. Distance from Colombo to Sigiriya is 165 Km. The best and the easiest way to get there is by a car which would take 3-4 hours. Accomodation options can be found in Sigiriya, Dambulla (20km away) or Habarana (15km away). A staircase of 1250 steps is leading to the highest point of Sigiriya. The way from the bottom to the top lasts approximately 2 hours. Because of the high temperatures during
the day and crowds, it is better to visit the place in the morning. The site is open every day from 7:00AM to 5:30PM (last entrance at 5:00PM). Entrance fees are $ 30 for adults and $ 15 for children between 5-12 years.