
From
4 Days
10 People
Airport
12+ Years
Beach, Mountain
May 10 - 13, 2022
Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress, is located in the northern Matale District near Dambulla in Sri Lanka’s Central Province. This historically and archaeologically significant site features a towering column of rock rising nearly 200 meters (660 feet) above the surrounding landscape.
As recorded in the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle Culavamsa, King Kashyapa (477–495 CE) chose Sigiriya as the location for his new capital. Atop the rock, he constructed an opulent palace and adorned its sides with vivid frescoes. Midway up the rock, on a small plateau, he built an imposing gateway shaped like a colossal lion, giving the site its name, “Sīnhāgiri,” or Lion Rock—an etymology similar to Singapore’s Sanskrit name, Sinhapura, meaning “Lion City.”
After King Kashyapa’s death, the site was abandoned as a royal residence and later served as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century. Today, Sigiriya is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its remarkable preservation and its status as one of the finest examples of ancient urban planning.
Visit Minneriya National Park, famous for its large elephant gatherings, particularly during the dry season. Enjoy a safari through this rich wildlife habitat and spot various animals and birds in their natural environment.
At SL Sapphire Tours, we’re here to make your Sri Lankan adventure unforgettable. Begin your journey with us and let’s create memories that will last a lifetime.
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