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Sigiriya

Sigiriya

Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka. It is located in the north-central province of Sri Lanka and is a fortress built on a massive rock that rises 200 meters above the surrounding jungle. The fortress and surrounding gardens were built in the 5th century by King Kasyapa, and the site is considered one of the best examples of ancient urban planning in the world.

The site includes a series of moats, gardens, and water features that were designed to impress visitors and reflect the king’s wealth and power.

The highlight of the site is the impressive rock fortress, which is accessed by a steep staircase that winds up the side of the rock. Along the way, visitors can see impressive frescoes of the king’s concubines, as well as a mirror wall that has been polished to a high sheen.

At the top of the fortress, visitors are treated to stunning views of the surrounding countryside, as well as the remnants of the ancient city that once thrived there. Despite its age, the site is remarkably well-preserved, and visitors are sure to be impressed by the stunning architecture and intricate designs that can be found throughout.

Sigiriya is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Sri Lanka, and its stunning natural beauty and rich history are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Useful information about Sigiriya:

Location:

Sigiriya is located in the central province of Sri Lanka, approximately 170 km northeast of Colombo. It is situated between the towns of Dambulla and Habarane and is easily accessible by road.

Opening hours:

The Sigiriya site is open to visitors daily from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat of the day.

How to reach Sigiriya:

The easiest way to get to Sigiriya is by road. It is approximately a 4-hour drive from Colombo and can be accessed by car or public transport. There are also a number of private tour operators who offer day trips to Sigiriya from major cities in Sri Lanka.

What to wear:

It is recommended to wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for climbing the steep staircase up to the fortress. As it can get very hot and humid, wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes is advisable. Additionally, visitors are required to cover their shoulders and knees when visiting the site.

Best time to visit Sigiriya:

The best time to visit Sigiriya is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, and the skies are usually clear, making for the best views from the top of the fortress. However, it is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowd

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