| Category | Details |
| Name | Sigiriya Rock Fortress (also known as Lion Rock) |
| Location | Sigiriya, Matale District, Central Province, Sri Lanka |
| Built By | King Kashyapa I (477 – 495 AD) |
| Purpose | Royal palace and fortress; later used as a Buddhist monastery |
| Height of the Rock | 200 meters (660 feet) |
| UNESCO World Heritage | Declared in 1982 for its cultural, historical, and architectural value |
| Main Attractions | – Lion’s Paw Entrance – Mirror Wall with ancient graffiti – Sigiriya Frescoes – Royal Water Gardens – Summit Ruins |
| Architectural Features | Advanced ancient engineering: landscaped gardens, water channels, terraces, boulders, symmetrical design |
| Climbing Details | Around 1,200 steps to reach the summit; takes 30–45 minutes (moderate fitness level recommended) |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning (7:00–9:00 AM) or late afternoon (after 4:00 PM) for cooler weather and great views |
| Ideal Season | December to April (dry season) |
| Average Duration | 2–3 hours including climb and garden exploration |
| Entrance Fee | Approx. USD 30 (foreign adults), lower rates for children and SAARC nationals |
| What to Bring | Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat/sunscreen), water, camera, light clothing |
| Who Should Visit | History lovers, families, couples, photographers, culture and nature enthusiasts, adventurous travelers |
| Nearby Attractions | – Pidurangala Rock (sunrise view) – Dambulla Cave Temple – Minneriya National Park (elephant safari) |
| Photography Tip | Capture sunrise or sunset from the top; also take wide shots of the rock from surrounding points |
| Interesting Fact | Often called the “8th Wonder of the World” for its design, planning, and artistic achievement in the 5th century |
Sigiriya
