historic site · Sigiriya · $35 · 151km from Colombo

A 5th-century palace and fortress built by King Kashyapa on top of a granite column about 180 m high, ringed by water, boulder and terraced gardens. The climb passes the frescoes, the Mirror Wall and the Lion Gate paws before reaching the palace ruins on the summit. UNESCO listed the Ancient City of Sigiriya in 1982.

Best time to visit

As soon as the gate opens, before tour coaches arrive and the rock heats up

Typical visit duration

2.5 to 3 hours

Tips

Foreigners pay a separate foreigner ticket; bring your passport. Wear shoes with grip and carry water. Keep quiet near the wasp warning signs, and expect the upper stairs to close in lightning or strong wind.