Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The theory that Sigiriya was a Buddhist monastery is given here, although the estab-
lished position that it was a palace or fortress prevails. Trade routes are explained, showing
Sigiriya's connections with the Gulf, China, India and the Roman empire. Among the arte-
facts, the large buxom stone deity stands out.
The museum is near the main ticket booth. No photographs are permitted inside.
Tours
The land around the rock is loaded with animals and natural features. The large resorts -
including Elephant Corridor, Hotel Sigiriya and Jetwing Vil Uyana - all offer various
nature tours
from about Rs 2000. These are open to non-guests and usually include the
services of a naturalist.
DON'T MISS
EXPLORING AROUND SIGIRIYA
With a bike or scooter you can explore the entire region around Sigiriya, which has a
wealth of lush forests, wild elephants, hundreds of bird species and no end of archaeolo-
gical sites. One of the best places to start is
Pidurangala Rock
. About 1km north of the
Sigiriya site, this important cultural spot includes a temple, a tiny museum and never any
crowds. Most rewarding is the climb up the rock, where there are amazing views of the
more famous rock looming to the south.
Another good ride follows backroads for 25km to Dambulla via the Amaya Lake hotel
and Kandalama Wewa, the large tank (reservoir).
Sleeping & Eating
New hotels are opening all the time in the area around Sigiriya. It's easy to understand the
appeal: the village is a mellow little place, off the main highway, and a far more preferable
base than Dambulla.
There are a few traveller-geared cafe-restaurants in Sigiriya village, and virtually all
guesthouses and hotels offer meals. For a spellbinding setting consider dining at Jetwing
Vil Uyana.
