How to Spend 3 Days in Sigiriya – Discover the history and grandeur of Lanka!

Sigiriya is perhaps the most iconic attraction in Sri Lanka. This grand creation should be a part of your itinerary when visiting the island. However, there are some other notable sites and attractions within the location that one ought to discover when visiting here. Read on to discover how you can spend three days in Sigiriya while exploring other places of interest.

Day one – Sigiriya

Reserve the first day to experience the Sigiriya rock fortress in all its glory. Start the day as early as possible, because when the sun begins to heat the rock surface, it gets unbearably hot and reflects the heat! Climbing won't be pleasant then. The site is open from 7 am to 5 pm, so you have all day to discover the place. Many hotels near Sigiriya Rock will pack a breakfast on request to have on top of the summit. Look out for places like Hotel Sigiriya, which offer all kinds of great packages for guests.

This spectacular monolith dates back millions of years and was made into a defensive fortress/palace by King Kashyapa in 447-495 CE. Having killed his father to claim the throne, he eluded the impending advances of the rightful heir, his half-brother Prince Mugalan. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is indeed a sight to behold! At the summit, you can encounter many palace ruins, including the throne and a large pool. It is believed that many rock and water parks existed at the summit, and on the palace grounds. After you have finished the climb, spend time exploring the environs. It is something people rarely do! The palace grounds are almost a separate attraction. Explore the beautiful water gardens, the several natural rock-hewn ponds, and caves.

Day two – Pidurangala and Dambulla Rock Temple

If you are up for more rock climbing, head to Pidurangala, which is close to Sigiriya. It provides great vistas of the Lion Rock as well as the surrounding wilderness. The entrance is via an ancient temple. There are several high-cut rocky steps to reach the temple and several rock-hewn sculptures of the Buddha. It is thought, that King Kashyapa came to this site to worship the Buddha and the monks living here. The climb up the rock is more strenuous, unlike Sigiriya, as there are no metal stairwells to lead one up to the summit. However, there is a rough path that has opened up due to the continuous trips made by visitors. Make sure to wear good shoes and go early in the morning. The sunrise and sunsets are most spectacular! A good photo session is worthwhile celebrating this adventurous climb.

After lunch, preferably mid-afternoon, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple. The temple is just 20-minute from Sigiriya town and is the biggest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka. The temple complex is built upon a rock over 160 metres in height and towers over the surrounding region overlooking the forests. There are over 80 caves within the temple grounds, but only five are open for visitors. Inside these caves, you will find painted murals and statues of the Buddha. Some depict his past lives as a Bodhisattva and those of his disciples. The cave art and sculpture are impressive and excellent examples of ancient Sinhalese art.

Towards twilight, take a boat ride close to the cultural triangle. Near Sigiriya, there are boat rides available for visitors. The magnificent rock and the bevvy of lily pads and water lotuses at sunset make for a magical evening!

Day three – Wildlife and Safari

Elephants gather for water in the plains at Minneriya National Park in Sri Lanka | Image via flickr

There are several national parks close to Sigiriya. Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks are the closest and will not disappoint any nature lover. Minneriya is famous for its elephant gatherings. The best spot to witness this is near the water tank. If you are lucky, you will get to see many baby elephants playing in the water. The tours are conducted via jeep with around 4 to 6 people.