Sigiriya

Rock Sigiriya, Central, Sri Lanka

What to expect

Sigiriya, also known as the 'Lion Rock', is an ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. It is a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of granite approximately 180 m high. The area around Sigiriya was inhabited since prehistoric times, and the rock was selected by King Kashyapa for his new capital in the 5th century AD. He built his palace on top of the rock and decorated its sides with colorful frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the side of the rock, he built a gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The capital and the royal palace were abandoned after the king's death, and it was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century. Today, Sigiriya is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning

Plan your family visit to the Sigiriya with these blog insights 👇

Sri Lanka with children according to Petr Horký

This family's experience:

Activities: We climbed the rock of Sigiriya and saw the ancient frescoes

Highlights: The kids enjoyed climbing the rock and seeing the ancient frescoes, and we all enjoyed the stunning views ✨

Highlights of Sri Lanka for Families

This family's experience:

Activities: We climbed the site and explored the ancient ruins

Highlights: The kids enjoyed the experience, but the climb was challenging ✨

Sigiriya With Kids. Good Idea?

This family's experience:

Activities: We climbed the rock fortress and visited the ruins of the ancient city and palace

Highlights: The kids enjoyed the walk and the view from the top, while the parents appreciated the history and culture ✨

Sigiriya with kids: 3 kids' activities in a row!

This family's experience:

Activities: We climbed the rock, and saw ancient wall paintings. We also saw a swimming pool built on top of the rock, which is no longer in use by the king

Highlights: Our kids enjoyed the climb and the view from the top ✨

What to visit, what to see during a family trip to Sri Lanka?

This family's experience:

Activities: We visited Sigiriya and climbed to the top

Highlights: We enjoyed the majestic rock, the water gardens, and the monkeys ✨