If you need to have an idea where roots of Sri Lankan civilization lie, visit Sigiriya Museum. The castle on the Sigiriya rock is said to be built in 5th Century AD. If you have plans to explore Sigiriya, you will need at least a day’s time. So the best option is to stay at a place like Hotel Sigiriya and plan your schedule.
Among the things to do in Sigiriya your priority should be to visit the Sigiriya Museum. The museum was built in a bid to preserve the architectural significance of the place. The museum is now considered the most attractive museum in South Asia.
Inside the museum, you will find an information centre, research centre and an office. The most interesting thing about this museum is that it does not hinder the view of Sigiriya rock castle. When you look at the building, you will realize how different it is as compared to usual buildings in Sri Lanka. That is much thanks to Architect called Ellepola who followed an innovative strategy in designing the museum.
Forest and water surrounds the museum building. Inside the building, you will feel as if you are already in Sigiriya.
As you enter Sigiriya Museuem, there is a brick tunnel through you have to go through to access the archway of the Sigiriya castle. There you can see a host of exhibits such as jewellery items, sculptures and a human skeleton. Inside the gallery, you will see drawings, photographs and miscellaneous information.
The first area of the museum introduces you to prehistoric Sigiriya. You will get a considerable idea on how earliest inhabitants lived in Sigiriya about 10,000 years ago. You will slowly see the evolution from the hunters to the agricultural set up in Sigiriya. Then the agricultural set up slowly moves on to Buddhist era.
The museum will elevate your experience of Sri Lanka to an unforgettable plain.