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Sigiriya

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya, or "the Lion's Rock", is a massive rock formation that towers more than 650 feet (198 meters) high. Carved into a city fortress on the orders of King Kassapa I in the fifth century, Sigiriya soon grew into an exceptionally elaborate, beautiful place, complete with sprawling, terraced gardens with fountains, myriad frescoes, carved stone walkways and avenues, and finally, a towering palace perched atop the giant rock formation itself.

The city served as the royal residence for only eleven years; following a pivotal battle, Kassapa was defeated by his brother, and took his own life. Afterwards, Sigiriya was given to monks, and fell into a long, slow decline.

Today, highlights of Sigiriya include the Mirror Wall, so-named because it was once constructed from highly polished porcelain; the stunning frescoes of Sigiriya, reminiscent of India's Ajanta Caves; and the palace itself, surrounded by a complex network of moats, reservoirs, cisterns, gardens and additional structures.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Balloon Ride

Take an early morning flight over the mountains, lakes and lotus ponds of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle in a hot air balloon. Soaring up to 2,500 feet above the landscape, your flight will offer spectacular bird’s-eye views of the ancient forests and tranquil villages of the countryside, culminating with an unparalleled aerial view of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. From October to May only.

Bird Watching

Sigiriya is abundant with shrubbery and jungle, providing an ideal natural habitat for various species of birds. Go twitching with a local bird spotter and pair of high-tech binoculars in the Sigiriya bird sanctuary, and see if you spot the Indian Cuckoo, a Ceylon Green-Pigeon, a Brown Fish-Owl or a Thick-Billed Flower Pecker, amongst many others.

Bullock-cart Ride and Boat Trip

Take a ride on a traditional Sri Lankan bullock-cart around the Lion Rock Fortress and the surrounding jungle, wildlife and local villages. After your bullock-cart ride hop on board a simple local style boat and cruise the nearby lake for an alternative view of the great Sigiriya rock, once built on as an ancient king’s hideaway. Meander along the waters enjoying the natural paradise, where beautiful butterflies and birds flit between wild flowers and grassy verges.

Combined Trip Sigiriya and Dambulla

Sigiriya and Dambulla are two areas that are often combined into a one-day trip. It’s possible to combine various experiences from Sigiriya and Dambulla in the same day, just mix and match whatever suits your interests.

Elephant Trek

Go on an easy elephant trek around the Lion Rock Fortress in Sigiriya. The gentle giants will take you through the green undergrowth and sparkling lake at the foot of the fortress to observe to astounding formation from ground level or more precisely elephant-back level. The elephant will trail through the waters and you will have the chance to feed and bathe the animals alongside your personal expert mahout.

Lion Rock Fortress and Water Garden

Visit Sigiriya, the “Lion’s Rock.” Climb the massive rock formation, more than 650 feet (198 meters) high, which was carved into a small city fortress by a king in the 5th century. Once home to palace residences, swimming pools and fountains, Sigiriya employed sophisticated hydraulic technology to elevate water to the summit. It has the rare distinction of being both a natural and man-made wonder of the world, and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Pidurangala Temple

Visit Pidurangala Temple, a small Buddhist temple built by the founder king of Sigiriya, located just a mile away from Lion Rock. In ancient times the king came across a community of monks and hermits occupying the area, the king built this temple complex to house them.

Sri Lanka Regions

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Sigiriya Itineraries

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Multi Country
Ultra Luxe
Intrepid
Classic Sri Lanka

Classic Sri Lanka

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,500
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Family Sri Lanka: Colombo to Kandy with Kids

Family Sri Lanka: Colombo to Kandy with Kids

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $13,400
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Family Sri Lanka: Trincomalee to Colombo with Kids

Family Sri Lanka: Trincomalee to Colombo with Kids

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $12,100
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From Bollywood to Ancient Ruins: A Journey Through India and Sri Lanka

From Bollywood to Ancient Ruins: A Journey Through India and Sri Lanka

Duration
17 days / 16 nights
Price Per Person
From $17,600
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Historic Sites and Stunning Hikes: Exploring the Cultural Gems of Sri Lanka

Historic Sites and Stunning Hikes: Exploring the Cultural Gems of Sri Lanka

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,000
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Historic Sri Lanka Odyssey

Historic Sri Lanka Odyssey

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $13,100
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Into the Wild: National Parks of Sri Lanka

Into the Wild: National Parks of Sri Lanka

Duration
17 days / 16 nights
Price Per Person
From $15,900
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Natural Beauties and Historic Wonders: a Sri Lankan honeymoon

Natural Beauties and Historic Wonders: a Sri Lankan honeymoon

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,600
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North Sri Lanka Adventure

North Sri Lanka Adventure

Duration
16 days / 15 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,000
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Sri Lanka's East Coast

Sri Lanka's East Coast

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,200
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Araula Forest Lodge
Pre-Opening Hotel

Araula Forest Lodge

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Araula Forest Lodge by Resplendent Ceylon invites guests to experience Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle from new heights. Situated within a 14-acre ancient forest, the tree house-styled resort has its 35 rooms and suites elevated to tree top level, offering  unrivaled views of surrounding lakes, rice paddies and mountains. Its location lends convenient access to nearby historic sites such as Sigiriya rock fortress, Dambulla caves, and national parks. Bandaranaike International Airport in the capital of Colombo is a 3.5-hour drive or quick seaplane ride away.

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Jetwing Vil Uyana

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Nestled amongst reed beds and paddy fields on top of a man-made lake lies Jetwing Vil Uyana, a premier luxury eco resort in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka. Hailed by Harper's Bazaar as the "best eco luxury hotel in Sri Lanka," this one-of-a-kind resort comprises 36 dwellings that merge sophisticated modern comforts with ecological rural simplicity. Located on a property that spans 28 acres, the resort's structures have been carefully placed to best allow the surrounding nature to thrive, inducing 36 species of butterfly, 120 species of bird, and 20 species of mammal that regard the resortas home. Guests can attempt to identify all the species from the comfort of their dwellings or participate in any of the various wildlife observation tours organized by the resort’s staff. Magnificent views of Sigiriya rock are also offered from the resort's fine dining restaurant serving Eastern and Western dishes alike. There is also a café for light bites and a fully stocked bar.  Strategically located, getaways to elephant gatherings at Minneriya National Park, a wildlife safari at Wilpattu National Park, and other tours of nearby natural wonders and cultural relics are easily accessible. The resort itself is equipped with a spa, yoga treatments, gymnasium, coffee makers, Wi-Fi, and more.

Water Garden Sigiriya

Water Garden Sigiriya

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Located just six kilometers away from the historic Sigiriya Rock, Water Garden Sigiriya resort provides visitors to Sri Lanka with world-class comfort and second to none service. With one and two bedroom options, the resort's 30 villas are chicly designed, spacious, and imbued with an air of mystique thanks to their secret gardens and private plunge pools. Havens of relaxation and excellently positioned to observe the lush outdoors and roaming wildlife, the villas are also equipped with such modern comforts as flat-screen televisions, Wi-Fi, and coffeemakers. The expansive resort property can be traversed via a traditional buggy, swimming across the outdoor pool, or aboard a helicopter from the resort’s helipad that provides aerial tours of the adjacent countryside. Master chefs cater to diverse appetites with dishes from around the world at the outdoor dining sites and traditional indoor venue. Quality is ensured with an emphasis on organic produce and imports from top quality suppliers.  At the resort's spa, various treatments can be enjoyed including renowned Balinese massages. On-site, there is plenty to keep guests entertained with activities as diverse as billiards, biking, and archery while travel off the premises to explore such nearby attractions as the ancient cities of Dambulla, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa is easy and convenient.

Elephant Corridor Hotel

Elephant Corridor Hotel

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

The Elephant Corridor Hotel is surrounded by the magnificent beauty of the Kandalama Hills and is close to Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This luxury boutique property has 21 suites, including some with private plunge pools. There is also the Presidential Villa, set in several acres of private grounds, which has four bedrooms and two private pools. The Ambrosia restaurant serves a well-chosen selection of international cuisine, and the Fables & Tales and Ebony & Ivory bars offer more casual dining. Meals can also be served outdoors under the trees, on a private terrace, or in your suite. Available activities include archery, mountain biking, horseback and elephant riding, and hikes through the surrounding plains and forests. The Om Wellness Spa offers a variety of different treatments all based on Ayurvedic principles. The hotel also has a fitness center and a business center. The Elephant Corridor is a four-hour drive from the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo (CMB).

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A Luxurious Comeback for Sri Lanka

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The tiny island of Sri Lanka has endured a lot, both in the past and in recent memory. Torn apart by civil war and a devastating tsunami, this strong and determined little country has fought its way through the hard times and come out on the other side not only with its beauty and culture intact, but also with its eyes on bigger rewards.
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