Unbelievable views, traditional life on display, nature around every corner, and of course, the beautiful Lion’s Rock. Sigiriya is a highlight when visiting Sri Lanka, and there’s so much more to do than just the headlines. Welcome to our guide to the best things to do in Sigiriya – we hope you enjoy it.
Nothing really prepares you for that moment.
I mean, we’d seen the Instagram pictures, heard the stories, and seen the rock from almost everywhere we visited around the village. But seeing it from that perspective, that was different.
Sweat was dripping down our arms, heavy breathing was in the air, and our feet were still finding their balance after the scrambling. It was a relief to finally get to the top.
A relief that soon turned to amazement.
Just this solo giant rock commanding the surrounding scenery. An orange glow illuminating it against the mountain backdrop, and those trees trying to climb it from the jungle below. At that moment, all the lake views, lunchtime spots, and even the climb up Sigiriya itself felt secondary. The first glimpse of Lions Rock from the top of Pidurangala will always last a lifetime.
But as we stayed to watch the sunset, the surroundings stole our attention.
Smoke rising from the mud huts we cooked rice and curry over an open fire. Clouds forming over the medicine forest we’d hiked the day before. Pink reflections bouncing off the lakes we’d cycled past. And in the distance, Elephants casually strolling through fields, not far from where we’d been on safari that morning.
It’s easy to think Sigiriya is all about the rock. Yes, it’s a breathtaking site – one that fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. But it’s the surroundings, the experiences, and the unexpected moments that make this one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Life here is traditional and has avoided the overdevelopment of mass tourism. There are no high-rise hotels or mega-developments, just local villages, wild jungle, and a way of life that has barely changed in generations.
So if you’re looking for unique experiences that go beyond just climbing Lion’s Rock, you’re in the right place. This guide has all the hidden gems, epic adventures, and incredible local experiences that will make you wish you had a little more time in Sigiriya.
Things to Do in Sigiriya
Explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion’s Rock)
Yes, there’s more than just Lion’s Rock, but really, you have to climb the UNESCO world heritage site. This steep, 180-meter vertical fortress, guarded by giant lion paws, and topped by the ruins of a 1500-year-old palace is one of Sri Lanka’s most mind-blowing experiences.
At the top, you get incredible views over central Sri Lanka and a real sense of how crazy the palace and fortress would have been… if it was still operating today, it would definitely win the award for the best infinity pool on the island.
The entire place is a bit eye-opening from the moment you cross the moat into the ancient water gardens – used to cool the palace above – to climbing the rickety staircase bolted to the rockface above ancient footholds – an interesting reminder that monks used to free-climb this thing.
As you explore you will pass the mirror wall, ancient paintings, boulder defenses, and the old remains of the imposing Lion Paws – It’s rare to get this up close and personal with a UNESCO site, allowing you to truly see, feel, and retrace the past in the present… and that’s why this is a must-do.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: $35 per person
- ⏳Time needed: 2-4 hours
- 🌅Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
- ⭐Our rating: 9/10 – For sure a must-do
Things to know:
- 1200 steps – it’s steep but manageable (we did it in flip flops, don’t if it rains)
- Skip midday – the heat is brutal. Mornings and late afternoons are best. There is a free water refill halfway up.
- Expect crowds – this is one of Sri Lanka’s top attractions, you won’t have it to yourself.
- Avoid if you have vertigo – the final staircase is exposed, it can be windy, and you need to pass other people. It’s not great if you’re scared of heights.
Climb Pidurangala Rock for sunset
We always hear travellers debate whether to climb Sigiriya or Pidurangala. If you ask us? You have to do both.
Sigiriya gives you the history, but Pidurangala, that’s where you get the best view.
This giant rock sits directly opposite Sigiriya, offering the perfect perspective of the ancient fortress and 360° views over one of the best landscapes in Sri Lanka.
Lakes shimmering in the fading light, smoke curling above tiny villages, deep shadows hiding patches of jungle, and the Lion’s Rock glowing golden against a stormy mountain backdrop.
If you’re after some stunning photos, this is the spot.
The hike up is fun but not easy. It starts with a few hundred steep steps (slippery when wet), followed by uneven rocks past a giant lying Buddha.
The final stretch involves a hands-on scramble, sometimes using ropes, to borderline rock climb to the top. If you’re not fit and fully mobile, this might not be the climb for you.
At the top, the vibe is amazing. There are normally around 100 people scattered around the rock – some chatting, some taking photos, others sitting in silence, and everyone soaking it all in. There’s no rush to leave and it’s easy to stay until after dark.
If we had to pick one Sigiriya experience? This hike, no question.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: 1000 LKR ($3) per person
- ⏳Time needed: 1.5-3 hours
- 🌅Best time: Sunset or sunrise
- ⭐Our rating: 10/10 – Possibly the best view in Sri Lanka
Things to know:
- Moderate hike – Steep and slippery, requires some scrambling, but not difficult. Wear good shoes.
- Stay till dark – the path has lights, so you can safely hike down after dark.
- Cover up – you need to walk through a monastery at the start. They offer free sarongs but you need to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Expect crowds – people often get stuck in queues when scrambling.
Join a traditional village experience
One of the best ways to experience central Sri Lanka’s traditional rural life is through a village tour – where you’ll get a first-hand look at how past generations lived, farmed, fished, and cooked in the jungle.
These tours run in Sigiriya, Habanara, and Hiriwadunna, often including a walk through the rice paddies or homemade farms, sometimes a climb up an Elephant watch treehouse, or a boat trip on a lake with the chance to fish, and they all include a woodfired lunch.
It’s quite touristy but good fun. We went on one with a traditional canoe ride across a lake, spotted tonnes of colourful birds, and Beth even got a new lily pad hat – her new go-to, apparently.
Lunch was the highlight. All the ingredients were freshly picked, we learned how to grate coconut for sambol and how to bring those smokey flavours into the curries.
And, in true rice & curry style, we ate way too much!
Make sure to avoid the bullock cart rides, the bull looks tired, and it’s a bit mean. The food, lake, and fields are the real experience.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: $25-40 per person
- ⏳Time needed: 3-4 hours
- 🌅Best location: Habarana or Hiriwadunna (Avoid the bullock rides)
- ⭐Our rating: 7/10 – Bit touristy but good fun
Where to book: Get your guide
Safari at Minneriya National Park
Minneriya is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot wild elephants, with hundreds calling this park home. And during the dry season (July-September), it hosts one of the largest gatherings in the world, where 300+ elephants gather around the reservoir.
When my brother came to visit us, he said he wanted to learn to surf, hike in Ella, and climb Sigiriya. But funnily enough, his biggest smile was when he spotted a shy baby elephant hiding behind its mother – there’s no way you can skip this safari if you’re in Sigiriya.
Minneriya is the main park, but it’s part of a wider wildlife area with Kaudulla and Hurulu Eco Park. The elephants are always in the region and move to where there’s the most water and food. The guides are super experienced and will take you where’s best, so no stress, you’ve got a great chance to spot them.
Beyond the Elephants you’ve also got a great chance to see sambar deer, crocodiles, buffalo, and tonnes of birds. But let’s be real, you come to this park for the Elephants!
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: $45-60 per person
- ⏳Time needed: 3-4 hours
- 🌅Best time: Sunrise or sunset
- ⭐Our rating: 9/10 – The best way to spot elephants
Things to know:
- Bumpy and dusty – you’re in an open top 4×4 Jeep in the wild… don’t expect comfort.
- Earlier the better – Elephants are most active in the early morning or just before sunset, an early start gives you the best chance to see them.
- Watch your food – the elephants have gotten smart and might try to steal food from the jeep. Either don’t bring any or make sure it’s hidden away, elephants eating plastic bags is a sad sight.
Where to book: Get your guide – 4 hours private jeep for $45 per person
Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple
Come for the skirts, stay for the artwork. Because dang, we looked good in those sarongs, but, let’s be real, the ancient paintings were on another level.
Dambulla Cave Temple is one of those places that completely exceeds expectations. Photos don’t do it justice. If climbing Sigiriya is like stepping into the Colosseum, then Dambulla Cave Temple is Sri Lanka’s Vatican City – and honestly, we think these artworks rival the Sistine Chapel!
The temple is made up of 5 caves, all carved into a giant rock at the top of a hill, and filled with over 150 Buddha statues and wall paintings dating from over 2,100 years ago. The real showstoppers are the giant lying Buddhas, with the one in the first room featuring some amazing henna-painted feet.
You can walk around at your own pace taking in the stonework and murals, or you can hire a guide who will explain all the history and Buddhist traditions. Tour guides can be organised at the entrance or online.
Don’t forget to look up. The ceiling is unreal, covered in beautiful murals that stretch the entire cave. This was by far our favourite part.
Beyond the temple the views from the top are really nice, overlooking the lakes, hills and Dambulla countryside. On the other side of the cave temple is also a big golden Buddha statue that is worth checking out if you have the time.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: 2000 LKR ($6) per person
- ⏳Time needed: 1-2 hours
- 🌅Best time: Anytime
- ⭐Our rating: 8/10 – One of the most stunning temples in Sri Lanka
Things to know:
- Dress code applies – Shoulders and knees must be covered. You can rent sarongs for 100LKR at the entrance.
- Beware of the monkeys – They will try and steal your snacks, sunglasses and anything loose.
- Lots of steps – the temple is at the top of the hill with steep, slippery stairs – take care.
Ride a hot air balloon over Sigiriya
If climbing Pidurangala sounds epic, maybe you’ll be surprised there’s a better way to experience Sigiriya… yep, floating over it in a hot air balloon – it just has to go on to your bucket list.
Starting before sunrise, to the sound of roaring flames, you lift off over paddy fields, misty lakes, and endless jungle. As the sun rises above the horizon, you’ll drift over little villages where you can spot farmers in their fields and Tuk Tuks whizzing on the roads… and without the sound of beeping for once! It’s such an epic experience.
The pilot is from the famous Cappadocia balloon rides in Turkey, so you’re riding with a pro. He’ll point out the surroundings, help you spot wild Elephants, and guide you to the best view of Sigiriya, standing tall in the mist, and glowing against the pink morning horizon – it’s honestly the best perspective of this beautiful landscape.
After a one-hour flight, you’ll land and be greeted with a glass of champagne and breakfast – the perfect way to soak in what you’ve just seen. Because trust us, you’ll need a moment. And really, is there a better way to start a day than floating over ancient wonders with a drink in hand?
This is, without a doubt, one of the most unforgettable things you can do Sri Lanka. We highly recommend it.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: $260 per person
- ⏳Time needed: 3-4 hours
- 🌅Best time: November – April
- ⭐Our rating: 10/10 – The most magical way to see Sigiriya
Things to know:
- Only runs half the year – runs between November and April, when the skies are clearer and winds are calmer.
- It gets warm – the balloon flame makes it warm, wear light clothes.
- What’s Included? – hotel transfers, the flight, breakfast, water, champagne and juice
- Book in advance – spots sell out fast, book ahead!
Where to book: Get your guide
Go on a night walk to find a Slow Loris
“Quiet, quiet”, the guide whispered suddenly, pointing his torch upwards. His red light flickered across the branches, scanning for movement. We crept forward, trying not to snap any twigs beneath us. Still struggling to see anything, the guide shifted his light to the right – bang, two glowing eyes reflected back.
“Jungle Cat”, he said.
It stared at us for a moment, then slowly crept backward into the trees. Its shadow fading into the darkness, and just like that, it was gone – so it was back to trying to spook each other again!
Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see a Slow Loris that night. But we did spot Indian civets, night birds, bats, terrapins, the Jungle Cat, scorpions, and my personal fav – a spiky porcupine.
And honestly, clambering through the jungle, pushing vines away, tripping over roots, slipping around, and joking about night crawlers was just fun – definitely a more wholesome and adventurous alternative to our normal beers.
A night safari is one of the more unique ways to spot wildlife in Sri Lanka. And considering how rare Slow Lorises are, the guide mentioned that normally there’s a good chance of spotting them.
We even checked out his camera trap videos and saw an awesome Fishing Cat – there’s a lot more life than you’d think after dark.
This is not something to attempt on your own! A local guide is a must – not just to find more animals but also to make sure you enter the jungle safely. If you want to see wildlife in a completely different way to the safari jeeps or river boats, we’d definitely recommend a night walk. And don’t worry – there’s still time for a beer after.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: $25 per person (min 2 people)
- ⏳Time needed: 1-2 hours
- 🌅Best time: After 7pm (skip if raining)
- ⭐Our rating: 7/10 – Something different to do in the evening
Things to know:
- Good shoes and long trousers – you’ll be clambering through the jungle, best to cover up.
- Bring bug spray – expect mosquitos.
Where to book: Get your guide
Drink some suspectly named cocktails at Rastarant
Climbing Lion’s Rock, hiking Pidurangala for sunset, spotting Elephants on safari – there are plenty of reasons to celebrate in Sigiriya. And in the evening, there’s no better place to raise a glass than Rastarant.
This place has serious character. Floating seating platforms on the river, swings hanging from trees, tree stump tables, mud hut bars, and a heavy dose of reggae vibes wherever you look. They’ve actually been running for over 15 years, making this the oldest bar in Sigiriya.
The main thing to come for is the cocktails. But be careful what you order – the names might land you in trouble if you say them too loud. I went for a Will You Kiss Me, Beth had a Touch Me Soft, and my brother – yeah he confidently ordered a Touch My Ass. Tells you all you need to know, really.
Rastaurant stays open late and has the best vibe in town. There’s often a live DJ, a huge screen for sports, and the occasional jungle party.
If you’re looking for a fun night out in Sigiriya, this is the spot.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: Cocktails from $5
- ⏳Time needed: Whatever you fancy
- 🌅Best time: After 7pm
- ⭐Our rating: 8/10 – Best nightlife in Sigiriya
Hike the Medicine Forest at Ritigala
Legend has it that a flying monkey god created Ritigala’s forest!
Hanuman, the god, was flying over Sri Lanka carrying a mountain of medicinal herbs to heal a wounded prince. But, as always, when you’re carrying something just a bit too heavy, he ended up dropping it, and that’s how Ritigala was born. Or at least, that’s what our good friend Dilishan told us after a few too many beers.
Whether you believe the story or not, Ritigala is full of unique bushes, flowers, and herbs you won’t find anywhere else in the area. The difference is noticeable – the jungle is overgrown, sometimes misty and definitely not as dusty as the surrounding towns.
Unlike most of Sigiriya, you won’t meet anyone here – it’s completely empty. It’s a peaceful walk on stone pathways through the jungle that leads to a stunning hilltop viewpoint, with plenty of ruins hidden along the way. It’s almost like a mini Sigiriya you can explore all on your own, and an underrated hike for sure.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: 2000LKR ($6) per person
- ⏳Time needed: 1.5 – 3 hours
- 🌅Best time: Sunrise or sunset
- ⭐Our rating: 7/10 – Quiet hike with cool ruins
Things to know:
- Quite far – it’s a 45min-1hr drive to the ruins, which costs around 5000LKR
- Bring everything – there are no shops nearby, bring water, sunscreen, snacks, etc
Spot wild birds and elephants at a local tank (lake)
Heading to a local tank is a contender for our favorite way to spot wildlife in Sigiriya. These ancient man-made reservoirs are full of wildlife – you might spot otters, crocodiles, exotic birds, and if you’re lucky, even elephants.
The best time to explore the tanks is morning or evening, when the wildlife is most active and the calm winds create a mirror-like surface on the water, the perfect scene to get some epic photos of Lion’s Rock.
Seeing elephants or otters takes luck, but the birdlife here is guaranteed – and way closer than on a safari. Flocks of painted storks, bright kingfishers darting over the water, eagles scanning from the trees, and herons diving for fish. We love to grab a coconut from a local stall, sit on the banks, and just chill.
There are so many tanks to choose from. Some have stunning views of Lion’s Rock, others offer boat rides, some are covered in lily pads, and a few have crocs lurking beneath the surface. We personally loved:
- Habarana Lake for birdwatching
- Kayanwela for epic views and swimming
- Kundalugaswewa for elephants
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: Free!
- ⏳Time needed: 1-2 hours
- 🌅Best time: Sunset
- ⭐Our rating: 7/10 – Cheap way to see wildlife
Take a cooking class
If there’s anywhere to learn real Sri Lankan cooking, it’s here.
Sigiriya and Dambulla are at the heart of Sri Lanka’s traditional farming and cooking culture – this is where generations of families have perfected the art of rice and curry over open flames, and still cook this way today.
For sure you’ll try some unbelievable rice and curry meals when you visit, but the best way to experience the food is to join a local cooking class and see the fresh veg prepared from farm to plate.
And you don’t just watch, it gets hands-on. We got to grate coconut by hand and grind the tomatoes into a sambol, learned which spices create that deep smokey flavour and sprinkled them into the pan, found out what’s the difference between clay and aluminum pots and how they change the flavour, and even how to change the heat over an open flame – who knew you just pull the log out a bit? Haha, durrrr.
The whole experience is very laidback and chill. You can drink chai with other travellers, chat over a couple of beers, and joke with the local family and their kids.
It all ends up with everyone sitting around the table sharing an unbelievably good rice and curry, make sure you come hungry… it’s basically all you can eat.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: $10 – 20 per person
- ⏳Time needed: 2-3 hours
- 🌅Best time: Dinner
- ⭐Our rating: 8/10 – Learn, chat, joke, eat
Where to book: Lunch ($14/person) or Dinner ($35/person)
Cycle around the countryside
Hiring a bike is one of the best ways to spend a chilled afternoon exploring Sigiriya’s quieter side. The roads here have fewer vehicles than other parts of Sri Lanka, so it’s easy to meander down backstreet dirt tracks without worrying about traffic.
Along the way, you might stumble across hidden temples, random lakes, farmers in the fields, fishermen floating in old truck tires, elephant watchhouses, or local kids playing cricket on the roads – who knows, maybe they’ll even ask you to join.
The roads are mostly flat, making this a super easy ride. You can rent a bike in Sigiriya village, and some hotels even offer them for free.
We suggest just grabbing one, taking the nearest dirt track off the main road, and seeing where you end up… After all, the best adventures always start with the unknown.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: $5 per bike
- ⏳Time needed: 2-3 hours
- 🌅Best time: Afternoon
- ⭐Our rating: 7/10 – A slow and relaxing way to see Sigiriya
Have lunch with a view at Moksha
If you’re craving something other than rice and curry, Moksha is the spot. It’s the only Western-standard restaurant in Sigiriya, serving up classic avo toasts, burgers, proper chips, and solid wraps – perfect if you need a break from spicy sambols.
This vegetarian restaurant sits right on the banks of a lake opposite Sigiriya, offering the closest, most uninterrupted view of Lion’s Rock. They play chilled music, and loads of travelers just hang out, grabbing juices or coffees in the sun. It’s the perfect place to relax after climbing Pidurangala or Sigiriya.
Come for the food, stay for the view, and enjoy the chilled vibes.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: $7-15 per meal
- ⏳Time needed: 1 hour
- 🌅Best time: Brunch and lunch
- ⭐Our rating: 7/10 – Best lunch view in Sigiriya
Learn to drive a Tuk-Tuk
Learning to drive a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka is one of the most fun things we’ve ever done.
We’ll be honest, they’re awful to drive. But, it’s kind of like cruising around in an old convertible on the French Riviera, whipping around Italy in a classic Fiat 500, or exploring Vietnam on motorbikes – these vehicles are synonymous with adventure on the island.
Sigiriya is the perfect place to learn – quiet roads, plenty of rentals, and local drivers who are happy to teach you. It’s a fun way to get around… once you’ve figured out first gear!
You can typically pick it up in under an hour, and then it’s so easy to explore. Head to Dambulla’s cave temples, chase sunrises at Pidurangala, head to Ritigala, or go elephant spotting at a local tank – you can basically do whatever you want at your own pace.
You do need a local license, but it’s easy to sort – the AA converts your home license in a day. Once you have it, forget taxis – driving your own tuk-tuk is the best way to explore Sigiriya.
At a glance:
- 💰Cost: $20-25 per day
- ⏳Time needed: 1 hour to learn
- 🌅Best time: All day
- ⭐Our rating: 9/10 – The funnest way to explore Sigiriya
Things to know:
- Local license – It’s best to pre-order a local license before arriving in Sri Lanka. They’ll drop it off at your first hotel. Get them here
- Police stops – sometimes police try to extort money from tourists. Make sure you have your license and don’t give cash if you didn’t do anything wrong.
- Confidence is key – if you don’t feel safe after a lesson or the tuk-tuk feels like a piece of junk, give this a pass, your safety is most important.
FAQs
Is Sigiriya worth visiting?
Absolutely! This is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and unique destinations. The UNESCO-listed Lion’s Rock is mind-blowing, the traditional life is eye-opening, and there’s way more to do than just climbing the rock.
That said, Sigiriya is a little out of the way. It’s 4+ hours from Colombo, 5+ hours from Ella, and a trek from the South Coast. But honestly, that’s part of what makes it special – it’s remote, traditional, and hasn’t been overrun by mass tourism.
If you’re on a tight schedule (under 10 days), skipping it is understandable. But if you’ve got two weeks or more, this is 100% worth adding to your itinerary. You’ll never forget that first glimpse of Lion’s Rock rising out of the jungle.
How many days should I stay in Sigiriya?
At least 2 nights, 3 if you want to explore it properly.
Anything less and you’ll spend more time traveling than actually enjoying Sigiriya – plus, you only get one sunset and sunrise. Staying longer means you won’t feel rushed and can actually experience the town, slower travel is the one.
If you’re planning to do a safari in Minneriya or explore hidden gems like Ritigala, you might even want an extra night.
What is the best time of year to visit Sigiriya?
Sigiriya is an all-year destination so you can come at any time. However, January to March & June to September are the best periods of weather, offering more sun, less rain, and more comfort. Here’s what to expect throughout the year:
- January – March (Best for sunshine & clear skies) – The sunniest months with clearer skies, warm temperatures, and lower humidity. Great for climbing Sigiriya and exploring, but there’s a bit more rain than in the middle of the year.
- April – May (Hot & humid, with some rain) – The hottest months, with sticky humidity and 40% rainy days. Expect sweaty conditions and the occasional downpour.
- June – September (Best for dry weather & safaris) – The driest season with almost no rain, strong winds, and cloudier skies. Safaris are great as wildlife gathers around waterholes but clouds might ruin the sunrise photos.
- October – December (Rainy season) – The wettest months, with heavy downpours and thunderstorms. It rains 60% of the days and the area can get wet and muddy.
Where should I stay in Sigiriya?
Sigirya is spread out between a number of small villages and bigger towns. When booking accommodation, double-check the location – many places market as Sigiriya, but can actually be 30 minutes away.
Typically there are 3 main areas to base yourself:
- Sigiriya Village – The best for views, local vibes, and being close to Lion’s Rock.
- Habarana – A little further out but great for safaris, lakes, and a quieter stay.
- Dambulla – More budget-friendly with better transport links, it’s more of a local town than a tourist hotspot.
We personally prefer staying in Sigiriya Village. The easy sunrise hikes, laidback jungle vibes, and Lion Rock views were unbeatable. If you can, find a place with a pool – you’ll thank us after a sweaty morning climb.
Best hostels
- Roy’s Hostel – a contender for the best hostel vibe in Sri Lanka, you must book months in advance – book hostelworld
- Tree House Hostel – great social hostel with rooms in tree houses – book hostelworld
- The Travellers Hostel – the cheapest hostel closest to Lion’s Rock – book hostelworld
Best budget hotels (Under $30)
- River side villa – clean treehouse rooms right next to a following river – book booking.com
- Topicara resort – big clean rooms and a nice pool – book booking.com
- Rainbow lodge – great location with big clean rooms – book booking.com
Best mid-range hotels ($30-$100)
- Sigiriya Village – nice rooms and views of Sigirya over the pool – book agoda
- Nelu Villa – clean private rooms with a great pool in the paddy fields – book agoda
- Moksha – hip western style with the best view of Sigiriya on the lake – book booking.com
Best luxury hotels ($100+)
- Hotel Sigiriya – great location, unreal views of Lion’s Rock over the pool – book booking.com
- King’s resort – luxury bungalows with private pools and Sigiriya views – book booking.com
- Water garden – highest quality luxury bungalows in Sigiriya with amazing rice paddy and lake gardens – book agoda
Is it better to climb Sigiriya or Pidurangala?
A lot of people focus on the cost difference ($35 vs $3) and the views being better from Pidurangala. But in our opinion, these are two completely different experiences and both are amazing, there is no better or worse.
- Climbing Sigiriya Rock – You’re walking through history. The ancient water gardens, the Lion’s Paws, the mirror wall, and the ruins at the top make it one of the most iconic UNESCO sites in the world. The views are incredible, but the point is you’re retracing the footsteps of kings and monks from over 1,500 years ago.
- Climbing Pidurangala – You’re getting the view of a lifetime. It’s more adventurous with a rocky scramble at the end and the reward is the 360° views over the jungle and the best perspective of Sigiriya Rock itself.
If you’re short on time, we suggest Sigiriya for sunrise and Pidurangala for sunset, you can do both in a day.
How do I get to Sigiriya?
Sigiriya is pretty remote, and the only direct connections are from Colombo or the airport. If you’re coming from elsewhere in Sri Lanka, you’ll likely need to piece together multiple transfers or get a private taxi.
To and from Colombo, these are the options:
- Train (2,000LKR / $6 | 4-6 hours) – Take the train from Colombo Fort to Kekirawa or Habarana, then grab a tuk-tuk to Sigiriya. The views are beautiful and it’s cheap.
- Bus (6,000LKR / $18 | 4.5 hours) – Direct buses from Colombo to Dambulla, then a tuk-tuk or local bus to Sigiriya.
- Private Taxi (from 25,000LKR / $75 | 3 hours) – The fastest and easiest option. Available from Colombo, the airport, or Kandy. Book via PickMe, Kangaroo Cabs, or local drivers.
Beyond Colombo, onward journeys to Sigiriya can be unpredictable. Some routes only have private taxis or shared minibusses, while others may have occasional trains or buses. You can find the best options for each location at 12Go Asia using the links below:
Are there ATMs and money exchanges in Sigiriya?
Yes, there are many ATMs around Sigiriya village and there are two money exchanges. No stress, you don’t need to bring buckets of cash.
Can I visit Sigiriya on a day trip from Kandy or Colombo?
Technically, yes, but we wouldn’t recommend it.
From Colombo, it’s a 3-4 hour drive each way, meaning you’ll spend 6-8 hours in a car for just a few hours of sightseeing. It’s possible if you leave early and only plan 1-2 two things, but you’ll miss out on everything else the area has to offer.
From Kandy, it’s 2.5 hours each way, making it more manageable as a day trip. You could climb Sigiriya, visit Pidurangala, and maybe squeeze in a safari before heading back. But it’s still a long day.
We think you should really spend a couple of nights in Sigiriya to experience it properly.
What’s the best way to get around Sigiriya?
Sigiriya is quite spread out, with attractions dotted among all the small villages. While there are some local buses connecting the main towns, the best ways to get around are:
- Rent a Tuk-Tuk or Motorcycle – Total freedom to explore at your own pace. Just remember, you need a local license.
- Private Driver or Tuk-Tuk – A great option if you’re not confident driving. You can hire tuk-tuks for short trips or private drivers for longer day trips.
Quick tip: Sometimes tuk-tuk drivers overcharge in Sigiriya. We found it helpful to check prices on the PickMe app (Sri Lanka’s version of Uber) to get a fair estimate. If you find a driver you like, grab their WhatsApp and book them for the rest of your stay – they’ll often give you a better deal.
For short distances in Sigiriya village, walking or cycling is the easiest way to get around.
