Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
5
Lion's Paws
C2
6
Mirror Wall
C2
7
Summit
C2
8
Terraced Gardens
B2
9
Water Gardens
B2
Sleeping
10
Flower Inn
B3
11
Hotel Sigiriya
D3
12
Nilmini Lodge
B3
Eating
13
Chooti
B3
ological site. Shorts are fine and a sarong is not necessary. Expect a visit to take at least
half a day.
To avoid the fiercest heat, get as early a start as possible. A good strategy is to head
straight for the rock itself so you're climbing Sigiriya in the relative cool of the morning.
The ascent involves steep climbs, so if you're not fit it may be tough. There's no shade on
the exposed summit so a hat is recommended. Then later in the morning you can amble
around the gardens and tour the museum.
Hopeful guides hang around the entrance and will also approach you once you're inside.
If you decide to use their services, negotiate very carefully.
Bring plenty of water (there are drink vendors near the entrance and exit).
Royal Gardens
GARDENS
The lowest section inside the Sigiriya complex is a beautifully landscaped area dotted with
water gardens, then as you approach the rock its foothills contain boulder gardens (home
to numerous Buddhist shrines) and terraced gardens. It's a beautiful place to explore away
from the crowds (but perhaps better to experience at leisure after you've completed the
