Sigiriya

Sigiriya

Situated in the central province Dambulla is a bustling city of numerous lures. While one corner lulls in history the other hums with life to come.

In midst of all stands Sigiriya. A 370 meter granite rock that houses vestiges of a citadel built in the 5^th century. A popular attraction with a daunting climb braved by the locals and the visitors either with glee or with terror.

In the shadows of the rock lies tiny jungle patches, rural villages and farmlands. These villagers and their farmlands alone supply more than one third of the country’s fresh fruits and vegetables. This is where the real essence of Sri Lanka is buried. A walk or a bike ride will take you through farmlands and villages bathed in natural beauty. Famous for wood carvings you shall find spectacular works of art and meet a few traditional artisans. Meet people, share food, enjoy a lore and take home an abundance of beautiful memories.

You cannot miss the Dambulla Cave Temple, an ancient cave complex that housed a large number of Buddhist monks in the 1^st century BC. The temple consists of five caves of various magnitude and splendour. Adorned with wall paintings that dates back centuries and statues of Lord Buddha and various other deities, these caves are a must visit if you are in the Sigiriya area.

The city borders two main National Parks, namely Minneriya and Kaudulla.  The two parks are amongst of the best places to catch a glimpse of herds of Asian elephants in their natural habitat. Awash with many native species of animals and plants these two parks offer an ideal setting for the diehard wildlife enthusiast.

Standing parallel to Sigiriya rock Fortress is the ancient rock monastery Pidurangala. Now a holy temple venerated by Buddhists it offers spectacular views of sunrise and sunsets as the rays bathe the woodlands, farmlands and villages in its golden hues twice a day. A pleasurable hike in the morning will offer panoramic displays with Sigiriya as the backdrop.

Stopover at Sigiriya where affinity with a country and its people surpasses popular tourism.