Sigiriya Rock
We visited Sigiriya to hike the famous Sigiriya Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sigiriya Rock, or Lion Rock as it is sometimes called, is a fortress and palace built on a rocky topped mountain which soars an impressive 600 feet above the valley floor. The ruins date from the fifth century. The journey included first hiking up neighboring Pidurangala to take in another perspective. We then walked over to Sigiriya Rock to climb nearly 1,200 steps along with several monkey friends to visit the ruins and marvel at the incredible view. It was a hot and sweaty journey, but well worth it. We topped the adventure off with vegetable rice and curry, our new staple, and a dip in the pool.
Sigiriya Rock, the Lion Rock, was a fortress and palace built by the fierce fifth-century King Kashyapa I. He killed his father to assume power, only to be defeated by his brother not long after. Family picnics were likely charming. Portions of the rock face have elaborate cave paintings and over 1,000 graffiti messages from medieval travelers.
To see Sigirya from a distance, we first climbed Pidurangala, a smaller nearby mountain.
On top of Pidurangala with Sigiriya Rock in the background.
The internal joy experienced from the signature move prevents anyone from telling him to stop.
Coconut water break—it’s hot, hot!
Walking from Pidurangala and circling the moat to climb up Sigiriya.
So hot!
It helps to be a monkey to get up on top of the rock.
Getting close! Pidurangala is visible on the right.
Refueling with vegetable rice and curry, and always a mango shake!
Boo!! Don’t ride the elephants or use a bullhook.
