(updated March 2024)
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, lies the city of Sigiriya. While climbing Lion’s Rock is one of the most popular activities in Sigiriya, there are a multitude of reasons to visit this region. With ancient cities, impressive archaeological sites, thrilling animal safaris, and stunning natural landscapes, the Cultural Triangle is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and history of Sri Lanka.
In this article, you can explore the wonders of Sigiriya and discover why it is considered one of the most fascinating places in Asia. I recently traveled throughout Sri Lanka and experienced these sites firsthand. This Sigiriya travel guide will share helpful information you need to know before you visit Sri Lanka.
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Sri Lanka Map: Visiting Sigiriya
Sri Lanka is an Asian country off the southeast coast of India. Although Sri Lanka is a small island nation, the Sri Lanka population is currently about 22 million inhabitants. While visiting Sigiriya, you will be in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle.
Visiting Sigiriya: Getting to Sri Lanka
International flights land at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in the Sri Lanka capital, Colombo. Several international airlines such as Qatar Airways and Emirates have service to Sri Lanka. From the US, it is common to have layovers in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Qatar or Dubai. If you plan to stay overnight near the Sri Lanka airport, the city of Negombo is actually closer than Colombo for accommodations.
How to Get From Colombo to Sigiriya
Take the Bus or Train
The distance from Colombo to Sigiriya is roughly 100 miles, yet as a tourist hotspot, several modes of transportation provide routes to the city. Buses are the longest option and take up to 5.5 hours. By train, you have to arrive at the station in Habarana, and then take a taxi or tuk tuk.
Click Here for Train Tickets and Bus Information in Sri Lanka!
Hire a Private Driver
If you have the budget, I highly recommend hiring a private car and driver which is efficient and allows the most flexibility with your itinerary.
We paid $1250 (plus gratuity) for four passengers during our week in Sri Lanka. That included a Mercedes Benz Vito van, fuel and unlimited stops wherever we wanted to go.
Seeking Stamps Tip: It is common practice in Sri Lanka to make arrangements for meals and hotels for your driver. Make sure to ask whether this is included in your rate. We booked our driver through our hotel and they coordinated those details.
Take Domestic Flights
The fastest, yet most expensive way to travel around Sri Lanka is through their domestic airline. Cinnamon Air offers small planes, helicopters, and seaplanes to transit around the country. If you are short on time, this is the way to travel.
Top Things to Do While Visiting Sigiriya
Visiting Sigiriya “Lion’s Rock”
You might be wondering, “What is so special about Sigiriya Rock Fortress?” Similar to the Colosseum in Rome or the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Sigiriya is the monument synonymous with Sri Lanka. Locals affectionately call Sigiriya Rock, “The eighth wonder of the world”. Obviously, the ABSOLUTE must-see in Sigiriya is a visit to Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built on a massive granite rock formation that stands almost 600 feet high. In the 5th century the palace was built for King Kashyapa, who resided there from 477-495 AD. Sigiriya fortress was abandoned after the palace was destroyed by the king’s brother, Moggallana. Subsequently, Sri Lanka’s capital was moved to Anuradhapura and the rock fortress became a Buddhist monastery.
Sigiriya Rock is also called Lion’s Rock, because you pass through two massive lion’s paws to begin your ascent up 1200 steps to the fortress. The location is not only impressive because of the epic views from the top, but it is also an impeccable example of urban planning.
A variety of beautiful frescoes and ancient “graffiti” are available to see along the metal platform at the top. Additionally, you can admire the Sigiriya mirror wall that was originally so well polished, the king could see his reflection.
Proceed with caution if you are afraid of heights, the rusty, metal platform is a bit nerve-wracking!
Hours of Operation: 6:30 am- 5:30 pm
Sigiriya Ticket prices: 5000 LKR/approx $30 USD. You can buy tickets online before your arrival or at the entrance.
ADA Note: This is not wheelchair accessible and is a strenuous activity.
Read This Complete Guide Before You Climb Lion Rock!

FAQ’s For Visiting Sigiriya Rock
1. When is the Best time of Year to Visit Sigiriya?
Sigiriya can be explored year round, but the ideal months to visit are July and August.
2. How Long Does it Take to Climb Sigiriya?
Plan to spend approximately three hours at Sigiriya Rock. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the top of Lion’s Rock and another 20 minutes for the return trip down.
3. Is It Hard to Climb Sigiriya?
The climb up Sigiriya Rock is moderately challenging. If you have the fitness level to climb several flights of stairs, climbing Sigiriya will be doable. Keep in mind that the midday heat and humidity is especially intense.
4. What Should I Wear to Climb Sigiriya Rock?
Lion’s Rock is not a religious site, so you can wear athletic apparel, a hat, and sunglasses. Bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen. Sturdy shoes or sneakers are best for walking on the uneven dirt path and stairs.
5. What Is the Best Time of Day to Climb Sigiriya?
The best time of day to climb Sigiriya is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. Peak times at Sigiriya fortress are 10:00 am-3:00 pm.


Hike Scenic Pidurangala Rock
If you have additional time in Sigiriya, climb neighboring Pidurangala Rock. It offers glorious views of Sigiriya Rock in the distance. It is also a great option for the budget-conscious traveler because the price to enter is significantly lower than visiting Sigiriya. Plan to hike 30-45 minutes to climb to the top. Wear sturdy shoes for the uneven and slippery terrain and steps.
Hours of Operation: 5 am- 6 pm
Entrance fees: $3 USD
Seeking Stamps Tip: Cover up knees and shoulders, and remove hats until you walk through the temple.
Visit the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa is the second oldest kingdom in Sri Lanka, which was established after the fall of Anuradhapura. To visit the Polonnaruwa relics, you will need to drive about 2 hours from Sigiriya. Once you arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage site, use a driver, tuk tuk, or bike to view the expansive site.
The gorgeous ruins of Polonnaruwa are over 900 years old. There is a museum onsite where you can visit to learn more about the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa and the significance of the archaeological site. Make sure to visit Polonnaruwa historical places including the Citadel area, the Sacred Quadrangle, the Lankatilaka Vihara Statue, the Gal Vihara Statue (a giant Buddha carved out of granite rock) and the massive Rankoth Vehera Stupa.
Without a tour guide, many of the structures will be without context. This is one place where a guide can explain the Polonnaruwa history and really enhance your experience. Plan to spend at least a half day here.
Seeking Stamps Tip: This is a religious site so cover knees and shoulders out of respect. You will have to remove your shoes for portions of the site. Polonnaruwa weather tends to be very hot, so bring socks to protect your feet from the hot gravel. There are a few vendors selling snacks and drinks, but no restaurants.
Hours of Operation: 7:30 am-6:30
Admission fee: approx $50 USD


Go On a Safari While Visiting Sigiriya
Sri Lanka has amazing wildlife to explore. Following your exploration of Polonnaruwa, you will probably be ready to sit and relax. Plan an elephant safari on the way back and it will work out perfectly. The Sri Lanka elephants migrate between Hurulu Eco Park, Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks, so check to see where the herds are at the time of your trip.
When we were visiting Sigiriya, the herds were in higher numbers at Hurulu. The area comprises almost 62,000 acres of land and was designated a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1977. In the reserve you have the chance to see giant herds of elephants in their natural habitat. In addition, you can view Sri Lanka’s animals including a variety of birds, monkeys and leopards (if you are lucky).
Conveniently, safari tours are offered in the morning or late afternoon through the reserve. The safaris consist of spotting wildlife in an open air jeep, bumping along muddy roads of the park.
For our Hurulu Eco Park safari, we made the mistake of letting our driver book the tour for us instead of going with the operator suggested by the hotel. Unfortunately, we ended up with a jeep with bald tires, no 4-wheel drive and we ended up getting stuck in the mud for an hour.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Make sure you are getting a 4×4 truck with your safari so you don’t have to dig yourself out of a muddy ditch like we did. Oops!
Hours of Operation: 7:00 am-5:00 pm
Entrance fees- Safaris range from $17-30 plus the $20 park admission fee.


Explore More of the Diverse Animals of Sri Lanka in This Article . . .
Explore Dambulla Royal Cave and The Golden Temple of Dambulla
Before departing Sigiriya, make sure to take a day trip to see the Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple and The Golden Temple of Dambulla. These interesting sites are approximately 30 minutes from Sigiriya by car. Follow the signs to the parking lot for the back entrance; you will not enter the caves by the big golden Buddha.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Make sure to buy your ticket and use the restroom at the bottom before you go up the 364 stairs. This is a religious site, so cover knees and shoulders.
Dambulla Cave Temple is said to be the best preserved temple complex in Sri Lanka. At the UNESCO World Heritage Site, 5 temple rooms were built into the surrounding granite rock caves. Inside you will see stunning frescoes and statues dating back to the 1st century BC. It is a sacred place and an active religious site. Plan to spend at least an hour admiring the complex. Watch out for monkeys who try to steal your snacks!
Seeking Stamps Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, the stairs are steep and a bit slippery. At the top you will have to store your shoes, so bring socks to protect your feet from the hot pavement.
The Golden Temple of Dambulla (the big Buddha) is a Buddhist Museum. We did not enter the museum, but enjoyed walking around the area to take photos and admire the giant Buddha.
Hours of Operation: 7am-7pm daily (ticket booth closes at 5 pm)
Admission fee: 1500 LKR, approx $4


Read About Travel to Kandy and Tea Country during your Sri Lanka itinerary . . .
Best Time for Visiting Sigiriya
Fortunately, Sri Lanka weather makes the country a year round travel destination. The tropical weather tends to be hot and humid, yet places in Hill Country such as Hatton and Ella, tend to be cooler. Peak travel season in Sri Lanka is December to mid-April.
Sri Lanka has two distinct monsoons, so you will want to decide on your itinerary before choosing the month you want to visit. The western side of the island (including western beaches and Hill Country) has the most rain during the stronger Yala Monsoon from April to September. April, May and June have the most rainfall at this time. The milder Maha Monsoon hits the eastern side of Sri Lanka from November to March. The most rainfall here is from November to December.
Sigiriya weather is ideal during the months of mid December to March. Sigiriya has the hottest temperatures from March to May, with the warmest temperatures in the month of April. It’s so hot and humid, your sunglasses and camera fog up when you go outside. November is typically the month with the most rain in Sigiriya.
Is Sri Lanka Safe?
Always check travel advisories for any country you plan to visit, as circumstances often change. Terrorist attacks, although rare, have happened in the country. Nonetheless, we felt very safe during our time in Sri Lanka. The people were very kind and welcomed us with smiles and warm greetings.
Importantly, petty crime can be problematic. Be aware of pickpockets at popular tourist attractions. There have been reports of stolen credit card numbers with smaller merchants, so pay with cash when possible.
It should be noted that tap water is not safe to drink, so make sure to only ingest bottled water. Importantly, mosquitos do not carry malaria, but prevent bites with DEET repellent to prevent dengue fever and other illnesses.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Enroll in S.T.E.P. from the U.S. Department of State to be notified of travel advisories. Its free!
Are You Looking For a Thrill? Explore the Terrifying Ambuluwawa Tower in This Blog!
How Long To Spend Visiting Sigiriya
When visiting Sigiriya, I suggest staying a minimum of three nights to have adequate time to visit the best Sigiriya attractions. You need one full day to visit Sigiriya Rock (and recover after), at least a half day for a safari, and another half a day to see Polonnaruwa.
Where to Stay When Visiting Sigiriya
When visiting Sigiriya you can stay in nearby Habarana, Dambulla or Sigiriya itself. These small towns have a variety of hotels to choose from, including several luxurious options. We stayed in Sigiriya because we liked the close proximity to Lion’s Rock and the choice of more luxurious properties.
For our accommodation we opted for the Sigiriya 5 star hotel, Water Garden Sigiriya. This peaceful resort has a gorgeous view of Lion’s Rock in the distance and it is surrounded by nature. Peacocks, frogs, water monitors and even a few elephants wander the property. Their superior deluxe villas have private plunge pools and offer over 1,200 square feet of space to enjoy during your stay. Their luxurious hotel restaurant has amazing Sri Lankan food and the Twin Level Bar is a fun place to relax with cocktails after a long day.
Seeking Stamps Tip:If you are traveling with small children, note that the walkways around the hotel are surrounded by water. Golf cart buggies are also available to transport you to/from the villas.


Visiting Sigiriya: Final Thoughts
As you can see, visiting Sigiriya during your Sri Lanka vacation is a must. From safaris, temples and ancient historic sites, the Sigiriya region has it all. I hope these secrets for visiting Sigiriya, Sri Lanka help you plan an amazing journey through the Cultural Triangle.

Sri Lanka looks amazing! I’ve always wanted to visit since my friend is from there.
It is such an interesting and diverse country!
Thanks for sharing your experiences, Sri Lanka sounds like a great place to visit! I have to add it to my bucket list 😃
Thanks for your thoughtful comment!
I hope to visit Sri Lanka before long. The Buddhist religion & beautiful countryside are very appealing & I would love to travel around the country by train & tuktuk. .Thanks for sharing your tips & experiences. I’m saving this for future reference
It is truly gorgeous- I hope you have a chance to visit.