10 Things to do in Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Matale Sri Lanka
Sigiriya Rock Fortress, located in Matale, Sri Lanka, is an ancient palace and fortress complex built on top of a 200-meter-high rock. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka and is known for its stunning views, archaeological significance, and beautiful gardens. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Sigiriya Rock Fortress:
1. Visit the Sigiriya Frescoes – The Sigiriya Frescoes are a series of ancient paintings located on the western face of the rock. These paintings are believed to be from the 5th century and depict a variety of scenes such as battles, animals, and people.
2. Explore the Gardens – The gardens of Sigiriya Rock Fortress are some of the most beautiful in Sri Lanka. They are filled with lush vegetation, flowers, and ponds. The gardens are a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Visit the Mirror Wall – The Mirror Wall is an ancient wall that is covered in graffiti. It is believed to have been created by King Kasyapa in the 5th century. The wall is covered in a variety of different inscriptions and drawings that tell stories of the kings and queens who lived in Sigiriya.
4. Climb the Rock – Climbing the rock is one of the most popular activities in Sigiriya. It is a challenging climb that takes around two hours to complete. The views from the top are spectacular and provide a unique perspective of the area.
5. Visit the Water Gardens – The Water Gardens are a series of interconnected ponds and water features located at the base of the rock. The gardens were built to provide a source of water for the palace and are now a popular tourist attraction.
6. Visit the Lion’s Gate – The Lion’s Gate is the entrance to the palace and fortress complex. It is guarded by a large stone lion and is a great place to take photos.
7. Visit the Museum – The Sigiriya Museum is located at the base of the rock and provides visitors with an insight into the history of the area. The museum displays a variety of artifacts and information about the archaeological site.
8. Take a Tour – There are a number of tour companies that offer guided tours of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. These tours provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history and culture of the area.
9. Take a Hike – The surrounding area of Sigiriya Rock Fortress is filled with a variety of hiking trails. These trails provide visitors with stunning views of the area and a chance to explore the countryside.
10. Shop – The nearby town of Matale is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts. There are a variety of shops and markets that sell a variety of items such as clothing, jewelry, and pottery.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a stunning and historic site that is a must-visit for any traveler to Sri Lanka. With its stunning views, archaeological significance, and beautiful gardens, it is one of the top tourist destinations in the country. So, make sure to add it to your list of places to visit and explore!