Sigiriya

Last updated on 18 May 2023Show location

See the natural splendor of the plateau and the magnificent architecture of the old stronghold at Sigiriya. The mansion in the sky, Sigiriya, is a wonder of architecture.

Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock or Lion Mountain, is a historical location in central Sri Lanka that is home to the remains of a former stronghold that was constructed on a spectacular monolithic rock pillar in the late fifth century AD. The rock rises to a height of 1,144 feet (349 meters) above sea level and is around 600 feet (180 meters) above the surrounding plain. Its top overhangs the sides because it is so steep.

On the numerous acres of land at the summit, the Sinhalese monarch Kashyapa I (reigned 477–495) constructed a palace in the form of a massive lion with the intention of defending himself from his adversaries. But in 495, the king was overthrown, and the palace was left in ruins. However, the location quickly became a renowned pilgrimage site, and it is now a well-liked tourist destination. One of the few remaining intact areas of the palace, visitors start their final trek to the summit through the open paws of the lion. Twenty-one apsara rock drawings are also noteworthy (celestial singers and dancers). In 1982, Sigiriya received the UNESCO World Heritage designation.