The main attraction in Sigiriya is what was once the kingdom of King Kassapa. The ruins of a palace which towered above the city, taking the form of a majestic lion; draw admiring visitors from all around the world. Though much of the palace was destroyed in a historic battle between the king and his brother, several wondrous features remain to this day. The vast gardens below boast remarkable water fountains, while remarkable frescoes adorn the walls above. A giant pair of lion’s paws stand on either side of what once was the entrance to the palace. Climb to the very top and feast your eyes on panoramic views of the lush green, surrounding lands.
After exploring the wonders that lie at the heart of The Cultural Triangle take a moment to catch your breath at a Sigiriya hotel and sample the local cuisine, which is bound to be rich with Sri Lankan spices. If climbing the rock proves too arduous, book a hot air balloon ride to enjoy aerial views of the ancient palace, you may even catch a glimpse or two of the local wildlife. Or simply admire the magnificent rock towering above you as indulge in a traditional full body oil massage, a specialty at the Ayurveda Spa of the Hotel Sigiriya.
The Sigiriya Museum, a modern day masterpiece, is not to be missed. It is modelled on the complex design of the rock fortress itself and offers callers a unique experience. The artefacts and displays paint a clear picture and offer a window to step back in time and catch a glimpse of life in the olden days. Among the exhibits is a spectacular diorama that explains the architectural feat accomplished by the ancient king.
Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
