Explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress with a Guide

Overview

Sigiriya Rock Fortress is considered one of the Wonders of the World due to its complexity of urban city planning, architecture, hydraulic engineering, and landscaping. This was built by King Kashyapa in the 5th Century AD who ruled the country for 18 years (477-495 AD) from here. The palace consists of a beautiful pleasure garden, paintings, and a mirror wall. Pleasure Garden gives vast evidence of city planning, architectural ability, and knowledge in water management which was used 1500 years ago! Sigiriya paintings are also 1500 years old and can witness how ancient artists drew these paintings on wet plaster by using natural pigments and protective steps taken by varnishing! Mirror walls provide enough evidence of the literacy level and literature power of ancient people who lived between the 7th Century AD and to 13th Century AD. Also the evolution of letters along with the time by reading & understanding these poems! It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982.

Activity itinerary

This excursion consists of walking and climbing. After entering the city, we can experience the pleasure garden of Sigiriya ancient city. I will explain to you one by one by visiting each section and will show you the highlights of those gardens along with ancient urban planning, architecture, hydraulic management, and landscaping skills. Also, I will be guiding you to the top of the Sigiriya rock which is about 180m in height from the surrounding plain. In between the climb, we can witness the marvelous Sigiriya paintings and the mirror wall with graffiti. I will explain to you the interpretations by the previous scholars on these paintings and poems. These are good evidence to showcase Sri Lanka's literacy level, and artistic ability in the period of 5th C. AD to 13th C. AD.

How to use your ticket

Meeting point

What to know before you go

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

This activity can be canceled in case of bad weather.

Reviews

Product code: 396567P3

Activity offered by Experiential Traveller Sri Lanka via Viator.