If you are taking a tour of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya really should not be missing from your itinerary. This small town is located in the middle of the jungle and is world-famous for its iconic Lion Rock. Sigiriya therefore literally means ‘lion rock’. But apart from this impressive rock, there are many more cool places to discover in the area. In this blog, we share everything you need to know for a visit to Sigiriya: from transport and practical tips to the most beautiful sights, good restaurants and our favourite accommodations.
General information about Sri Lanka
Are you planning your trip to Sri Lanka? Then check out our tips for the best travel period, daily budget and applying for a visa. Find all information on Sri Lanka here.
How do you travel to Sigiriya?
Located in the heart of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is part of the famous ‘Cultural Triangle’. This makes it a popular and logical stop during almost every tour of the country. Most travellers combine Sigiriya with Anuradhapura, Kandy, Dambulla or Polonnaruwa, but it is also easily accessible from Colombo or Negombo. We ourselves travelled from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya and then on to Kandy!
From Anuradhapura to Sigiriya
Are you, like us, travelling from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya? Then count on a journey time of about 1.5 to 2 hours. You will have plenty of time and can stop a few times along the way if you go by your own tuktuk!
You can also take the bus, which is the cheapest option, but allow for multiple transfers and a bit more travel time. If you want to travel faster and more comfortably, a taxi or private transfer is the best choice. You can easily arrange these through your accommodation or with the app PickMe (Sri Lanka).
From Kandy to Sigiriya
The route from Kandy to Sigiriya is one of the most popular routes in Sri Lanka and takes approximately 3 hours. You can do this by bus, which is cheap but less comfortable, especially with a lot of luggage. Many travellers therefore opt for a taxi or private transfer, which you can arrange in advance or on the spot.
Prefer to travel independently? Then renting a tuktuk via tuktukrental.com a fantastic option. It gives you all the freedom to stop wherever you want along the way.
From Negombo to Sigiriya
Just arriving in Sri Lanka and departing from Negombo? Then the travel time is about 4.5 to 5 hours. The bus is the cheapest way, but allow for longer travel time and transfers. If you want to start your trip relaxed, a taxi or private transfer is a fine option, especially with a lot of luggage or after a long flight. You can easily arrange this via your accommodation or the app PickMe (Sri Lanka).
Adventurers can choose to travel the route by tuktuk: it takes a little longer, but you immediately experience Sri Lanka in a unique and flexible way.
Travelling through Sri Lanka by tuktuk
We did our entire trip through Sri Lanka by tuktuk and it was, without a doubt, the most fun way to travel around. It is not only practical, but also an adventure in itself! We hired our tuktuk through tuktukrental.com, an absolute must that will make your trip really extra special. And with the discount code ‘THOUSANDTRAVELMILES‘ you also get a nice discount!
Tip: Click through the link in this blog to the website of Tuktukrental, then the discount will be applied automatically. Convenient, right?
Tips for transport in Sigiriya
Sigiriya itself is not big, but the sights and national parks in the area are often a bit further apart. Therefore, it is smart to think in advance about how you want to get around here.
- Tuktuk hire (with or without driver): This is definitely the most fun and flexible way to explore Sigiriya and the surrounding area. You can hire a tuktuk yourself and drive around at your own pace, or opt for a driver to take you to the most beautiful places, such as the Pidurangala Rock, Dambulla and the Cave Temples. Do you opt for a safari tour near Sigiriya? Then your pick-up from the hotel is often included.
→ View all tours in and around Sigiriya via GetYourGuide. - Tuktuk taxi: For a short ride, you don't have to go to much trouble. Just raise your hand and a tuktuk will automatically stop. However, it is wise to agree on a price before you leave so there are no surprises.
- PickMe app (Sri Lanka): The PickMe app also works in Sigiriya, although the offer is sometimes more limited than in the bigger cities. The app lets you know immediately what the ride costs and avoids bargaining. Can't find a driver nearby? No problem, just raise your hand and a local tuktuk is guaranteed to stop.
- Bike or scooter hire: You can often rent a bike or scooter from your accommodations in Sigirya. This is a very affordable option although we don't directly recommend the bike. This is because some sights are a bit further away, so cycling with the Sri Lankan heat is really not optimal!
Tip: To use PickMe, you need internet. Therefore, arrange a local SIM card or opt for an e-sim, for example via Airalo.
What to do in Sigiriya and surroundings?
Sigiriya is a fantastic stop for your itinerary through Sri Lanka. Of course, the iconic Lion Rock symbolises this region, but the area has so much more to offer. From ancient cave temples and tranquil sunset spots to impressive safaris and hidden local addresses, Sigiriya is the perfect place to combine culture, nature and adventure!
1. Climb the world-famous Lion Rock
The Lion Rock is one of Sri Lanka's most famous sights and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. This 200-metre-high rock rises far above the landscape and was once the site where King Kassapa (477-495 AD) had his palace built. And you can follow in his footsteps! During a climb of 1,225 steps, you will pass the famous lion's paws and several frescoes.
Once at the top, you will find remnants of the palace and can enjoy panoramic views. Just keep in mind that the entrance fee is high and the route up is quite crowded, especially in high season.
Is climbing the Lion Rock worth it?
The entrance fee for the Lion Rock is hefty at $35 (about €30) per person. This is why some travellers decide to skip this rock and climb only Pidurangala. Personally, we found the price-quality of the Lion Rock not quite balanced. But of course, this choice is up to you! If you choose to climb the Lion Rock, do take a guide. This will help you learn more about the area, its history and King Kassapa.
→ View all tours in and around Sigiriya via GetYourGuide.
Tip: Do you have a drone with you? Then Mapagala Fortress is a great place to take videos and photos of the Lion Rock and the surrounding jungle!
2. Enjoy the sunrise at Pidurangala Rock
Do you especially want to enjoy spectacular views? Then Pidurangala Rock might be even more beautiful than the Lion Rock itself. That's because from here you look straight out onto the iconic rock that rises high above the jungle. The climb takes about 20 to 30 minutes and the last bit you climb over large rocks, but with an average level of fitness it's perfectly doable.
Most travellers opt for sunrise or sunset, but the view is also fantastic just after sunrise. Moreover, the entrance fee is many times lower than that of the Lion Rock. Just make sure you take a tuktuk to the starting point, as the road goes right through the jungle where elephants live. Want to know more about this unique location? Read our blog: Climbing Pidurangala Rock in Sri Lanka: everything you need to know!
Conclusion: Lion Rock or Pidurangala Rock? If you have the time, then it is definitely worth climbing both. However, if you have to choose, we recommend going for Pidurangala Rock. We found the remains on Lion Rock less impressive than the view you get from Pidurangala Rock.
3. Visit the cave temples of Dambulla
Just a half-hour drive from Sigiriya, you will find the cave temples of Dambulla. Built against a granite mountain, this complex, also called the Golden Temple, is one of the best-preserved temple complexes in Sri Lanka.
Even from afar, you can see the huge golden Buddha statue standing at the entrance. But it is mainly the five caves higher up the mountain that leave an impression. Inside, you will find hundreds of Buddha statues and colourful murals, some of which are centuries old.
Tip: Make sure your knees and shoulders are covered and remember to take off your shoes before entering Dambulla Cave Temple. An extra tip: bring socks, as you will leave your shoes or slippers at the entrance and the stone floors can get quite hot from the sun.
4. Watch the sunset at Mapagala Fortress
A lesser-known but ideal place to end the day is Mapagala Fortress. From the rock, you have sweeping views of the jungle and the famous Lion Rock. From the road, it is only a ten-minute climb before you reach the top to which you can sit back and enjoy the scenery!
Tip: Bring your own food and drinks to end the day nice and relaxed, and don't forget your drone! Mapagala Fortress is a great place to take videos and photos of Lion Rock and the surrounding jungle.
5. Take a cooking class in Sigiriya
Anyone who loves good food should actually do this at least once in Sri Lanka. During this cooking class in Sigiriya, you will be introduced to local cuisine in a fun and interactive way. You will learn step by step how to prepare traditional dishes and afterwards you will be given the recipes to use at home!
→ Easily book your cooking class in Sigiriya through GetYourGuide here.
6. Elephant spotting: from tuk tuk to safari
One of the most unforgettable experiences in the Sigiriya area is spotting wild elephants. This can be done in several ways, and it is this variety that makes it so special. For instance, you can come face-to-face with these fantastic animals while driving your own tuk tuk. Especially on the road from Habarana to Trincomalee, there is a good chance of seeing them walking along the road, especially during the early morning or towards sunset.
We were lucky and saw on this Google Maps location (A6) a herd of elephants walk along the road and later cross it! From the sign saying ‘Caution: there are no barriers from here’, the chances are highest. It was without doubt one of our coolest experiences ever, but keep in mind that they are wild animals. So make sure you keep your distance and listen to the locals.
If you want more security and longer encounters, there are several national parks nearby where large herds of elephants live. Hurulu Eco Park is a beautiful area where you can see dozens of elephants in a few hours during a safari.
→ Easily book a safari tour in Hurulu Eco Park through GetYourGuide here.
Read also: Udawalawe National Park: the place to spot elephants in Sri Lanka
Read also: The best things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka
Good restaurants in Sigiriya
After a day full of impressions and adventures, there is nothing nicer than dining at a good restaurant. Luckily, there are plenty of fine places to eat in Sigiriya, from local curries to trendy bowls and a cold beer with a view. These are our favourites:
- Soul Food: This is perhaps the hotspot of Sigiriya. Here you will enjoy avocado toasts, smoothie bowls, vegetable bowls, burgers and good coffee. As an added bonus, you have a great view of the iconic Lion Rock from the terrace.
- The Lions Choice: Super small, but highly recommended! The restaurant is run by incredibly friendly people who cook with passion. The food is delicious and authentically Sri Lankan, exactly what you want during your stay in Sigiriya.
- Little Hut: This small, cosy restaurant is an excellent choice for an authentic Sri Lankan meal. The atmosphere is convivial and casual, making it the perfect place for a simple but delicious meal.
- Wihara Restaurant: For the tastiest rice and curry, Wihara is the place to be. The dishes are fresh, flavoursome and prepared with love. The friendly owner completes it all: you immediately feel welcome here.
- Cappuccino Bistro: Fancy a western breakfast or a hearty lunch? At Cappuccino Bistro, you'll find a mix of Sri Lankan and international dishes. From pancakes and coffee to local curries, there is something for everyone on the menu.
- Rastarant Sigiriya: A relaxed place with reggae music blaring through the speakers. You can go here for both lunch and dinner, as well as just a cosy drink. The laidback atmosphere makes this a nice place to end the evening.
- Sigiriya Lion Face: For a cold beer, this is the place to be. A relaxed place to have a drink together and catch up on activities.
Where to stay in Sigiriya
Sigiriya is a popular stop on a tour of Sri Lanka and, as a result, there are many accommodation options. Whether you are looking for a small-scale hotel with stunning views, a cosy hostel or an affordable homestay, there is something for everyone. We often book last-minute and save accommodations in our favourites lists. In Sigiriya, we had saved many, but none turned out to be available yet. That never actually happens, but was another wise lesson! If you have a specific preference, make sure you book it on time. These were our favourites for Sigiriya:
- Lankapura Heritage: One of the nicest places to stay (in our opinion) in Sigiriya, mainly because of the pool with spectacular views of Lion Rock. Being a small hotel, you will enjoy peace and quiet here and the reviews don't lie!
- Sigiri Rock Side Home Stay: A fine, affordable homestay in a central location. The rooms are simple but clean. Perfect if you have a smaller budget but still want to stay comfortably.
- Roy's Villa: A social hostel where daily activities and family dinners are organised. There is even yoga in the morning overlooking the rice fields. It's a bit pricier than average, but the atmosphere and conviviality make this absolutely worth it.
- Hotel Sigiriya: Fair is fair, this hotel was beyond our budget! But wow... we just have to recommend this one. This comfortable hotel has a big plus: the pool overlooking Lion Rock. Ideal for relaxing after a climb to Pidurangala or a day exploring temples.
- Palmyra Nature Resort: An affordable options with pool, for those who want to combine comfort and a nice price. You sleep in cosy bungalows, often surrounded by greenery.
- Sigiri Close-up View Guest: A guesthouse with stunning views of Lion's Rock, within walking distance of Pidurangala Rock. Bear in mind that the last 200 metres of the road can be bumpy, but the view more than makes up for it.
- The Cattleya Guest House: This guesthouse is in a central location, is neat and clean and known for its incredibly friendly hosts.
- Dream Villa Sigiriya: A budget-friendly option with a good location. Perfect for travellers looking to stay cheap without compromising on convenience.
Plan your trip with our Sri lanka map!
Plan your ideal itinerary through Sri Lanka with our handy Google Maps map. Discover the best local eateries, iconic sights and hidden gems. With this map, you'll have all hotspots at your fingertips and won't miss a single highlight of this beautiful country.
Frequently asked questions about Sigiriya
Below in brief are some frequently asked questions we have received about Sigiriya!
1. How many days do you need for Sigiriya?
If you have a tight schedule, you can see the main attractions of Sigiriya in one day. For example, you can climb Pidurangala Rock in the morning, visit Dambulla Cave Temple in the afternoon and spot wild elephants with your own tuk tuk at the end of the day.
However, if you really want to take time to enjoy the area and explore everything at your leisure, we recommend planning two full days in Sigiriya.
2. What is the best travel time for Sigiriya?
The best time to visit Sigiriya is from December to March, when it is relatively dry and you can make the most of the sunrise and sunset. In the monsoon period (May to September), it can rain more often, making some activities like climbing Pidurangala Rock more difficult.
3. What do you wear while visiting the temples?
As with other religious sites in Sri Lanka, your knees and shoulders should be covered. Bring a scarf or sarong if necessary. Always remove shoes before entering a temple.
In addition, it is much appreciated if you wear white clothes! This is a sign of respect and is greatly appreciated. The white colour on the buddha flag represents purity - purity.
4. Can I also book complete tours in Sigiriya
Absolutely! As in all of Sri lanka, tours are easy to book locally or online through reliable websites like GetYourGuide.
We hope these tips help you plan your trip. Do you still have questions? Then feel free to drop us a line at Instagram.
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