• Royal Capital: Sigiriya was constructed in the late 5th century by King Kasyapa I, who moved the capital there after assassinating his father. The location was chosen for its defensive potential against his brother, who had fled into exile.
• A New Capital: Kasyapa built a city at the base of the rock, complete with elaborate gardens, and a palace on the flat summit. The final ascent was accessed via a staircase leading through the mouth of a massive lion-shaped gate, though today only the lion's paws remain.
• A Buddhist Monastery: After Kasyapa's defeat and suicide in 495 AD, the site was converted into a Buddhist monastery and used as such until the 14th century, before eventually being abandoned.
• Rediscovery: British archaeologists rediscovered the site in the 19th century, leading to its excavation and eventual protection.

• The Summit: The ruins of the royal palace complex cover the entire flat top of the rock. It includes foundations of buildings, pools, and offers panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding jungle.
• Lion's Paw Terrace: Near the top of the rock, you will pass through the iconic Lion's Paw Terrace. This large, flat platform features the remnants of the giant paws that once framed the entry to the palace.
• Mirror Wall: A highly polished wall near the frescoes is known as the Mirror Wall. In ancient times, it was polished to reflect the king's image. Visitors from the 7th to 14th centuries etched graffiti and poems onto it.
• Sigiriya Frescoes : Located in a sheltered rock pocket along the climb, these vibrant 5th-century paintings depict graceful celestial maidens. Though originally hundreds, only a few frescoes remain in a well-preserved state.
• The Gardens: The base of the rock features the remains of some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. These include water gardens with ancient fountains and pools, symmetrical terrace gardens, and boulder gardens.
• Archaeological Museum: An on-site museum at the entrance provides additional historical context for the fortress through artifacts, models, and displays.

• Opening Hours: Sigiriya is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with the last entry at 5:00 PM.
• Entrance Fee: As of mid-2025, the fee for foreign tourists is approximately $36 USD.
• Fitness Level: The ascent requires climbing over 1,200 steep and sometimes narrow steps and is not recommended for those with severe mobility issues or vertigo.
• What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. A hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water are also recommended due to sun exposure.

• Pidurangala Rock: For a less-crowded and cheaper climb, consider Pidurangala Rock, located about 1 km north of Sigiriya. The shorter hike takes about 30–45 minutes and offers stunning panoramic views of the Sigiriya fortress, especially at sunrise or sunset.

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