The Lion Rock or Sigiriya is situated in the district of Mathale close to the ancient Dambulla city. Standing majestically 200m straight up over the dusty plains of Sri Lanka, this has a history that dates back to centuries. Before King Kashyapa converted this rock into a kingdom, it is said that the Buddhist monks have used the caves around the rock during 3rd Century BC. Some of these caves have the Brahmin engravings that date back to 3rd Century BC too.
The shape of this ancient fortress is unique and there is no other rock in the country which is similar. In 1831 this historical site was rediscovered by a British Major. Sigiriya was built as a fortress during King Kashyapa’s reign and the ruins still display the royalty and grandeur it had during those early times. In the summit the remaining of the castle are still visible to the visitors. A lions head and paws have been created at the entrance during King Kashyapa’s time but unfortunately only the paws are left today. These paws are in almost every postcard or picture that represents this archeological wonder
Amazing frescos are found inside of the rock and these paintings are said to be having similarities to the paintings at Ajantha caves. Many interpretations are done to identify these women who are in the paintings. The mirror wall which was once used by the king, is now covered with poems and verses written by the people who visited this site after King Kashyapa’s death. The old ramparts that were created for protection can be still seen around the fortress. The water gardens at the bottom of the rock add more tranquility to the environment. Declared as a world heritage site by the UNESCO this masterpiece was most often referred as the eighth wonder of the world.
There are many places that can be chosen for accommodation from the area itself. With a clear view of the amazing rock from the pool the affordable Hotel Sigiriya is one such great hotel in Sigiriya. With the friendly staff and the modern facilities blended with the village culture, a better place would be hard to find among other Hotels Sigiriya.
Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.
