A Tour To An Ancient City Of Sigiriya

November 09, 2021

A TOUR TO AN ANCIENT CITY OF SIGIRIYA

It was 2019 before Covid pandemic, I wanted to visit Sigiriya rock fortress with my family and spend few days at “Aliya Resort and Spa” in Sigiriya village. I would like to share my experience with more details.

Sigiriya is about three hours’ journey from Colombo. As we stopped in Kegalle “Awanhala” cafe for the breakfast it had been taken about 3 ½ hours to reach Sigiriya rock fortress.

Importance of the Sigiriya Fortress:

Sigiriya fortress named by UNESCO as 8^th world heritage place which has been a famous tour destination among tourists. Of course when we consider tourism destinations in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya takes top of the list constantly. This One of the eighth wonder of the world Sigiri rock is located in Matale district near Dambulla area.

History of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress:

According to the history Mahavamsa, in 5 th century it was built by king Kashyapa as his palace and thereafter until 14th century this wonderful Sigiriya had been used as Buddhist monastery and later it was abandoned. But according to “Ramayana”, “Ravana watha”, and the archeologist Senerath Paranawithana chronologies says this Sigiriya was the palace of the emperor king Ravana and it was built under the directions of his father king Visthavasa. According to Ravana legend this Sigiri palace was called as “Alakamandawa” and they are of opinion that there was a golden lift to climb up to the top of the rock and it had been used to go through the palace. Most of the parts of the palace consist of golden carvings too. But nowadays only the surface of this Sigiriya rock exists. According to all these historical information Sigiriya seems to be a mysterious legend and hidden historical place with a history consists of more than 4000 years.

Physical features of Sigiriya Rock:

When considering physical features of Sigiriya the height of the Sigiriya rock is about 180m and there are about 1000 steps to climb up. At the entrance of the Rock there is a large lion’s paw and the part of lion gate still can be seen. Stairs embark with this Lion gate entrance.

Things to see in Sigiriya Rock:

While climbing steps in a particular place we were able to see Sigiriya frescoes, the top naked beautiful women, some were holding flowers in their hands, history says those paintings were done by king Kashyap. They could be maidens or his queens, taking flowers to worship was beautifully drawn on walls. I have heard that there were about more than 100 paintings on the wall and now remain only few as more paintings had been destroyed by nature disasters and human activities. Therefore, we were able to see only nine paintings. It was really amazing how these paintings have drawn on this rock. We were not able to take photos of these paintings as it is prohibited due to rays of the cameras can affect the colors of the paintings.

While climbing we saw pale orange color polished wall which is called “Mirror wall” and there were some poems written in ancient Sinhalese by ancestors. Now this wall is covered with a glass for more protection by archeological department. Top of the rock is plat mound. On this mound still we can see the ruins of the palace, bricks compound foundations and ponds. Most important thing is how water was taken to these ponds by pipe lines to the top of the rock in that era. Before 4000 years ago, in 5^th century. This is unbelievable!

Urban Planning of Sigiriya Rock:

Urban planning, the garden planning, landscape, architecture, engineering methods were well planned. Local and foreign engineers still try to figure out how this technology works. I have heard some tourists are specially coming to see this technology. This Sigiriya rock demonstrates that Sri Lanka had well improved irrigation system during ancient period. This is one of the best evidence to prove it.

Tips for easy climbing:

As we climbed up during the afternoon it was very warm and we faced skin burning hot weather. Though there was a strong wind that hot weather made us too tired. We were dying with thirst after climbed down. So I suggested the best time to climb Sigiriya is in the morning or in the evening to avoid warm weather. Our thirst was gone after having cucumber pieces and king coconut water. King coconuts, Kurumba nuts, sweet orange juice, Belli and many more herbal and fruit drinks stalls were beside the pathway next to Sigiriya rock entrance. Wearing trainers and jeans with light back packs will make your journey easier.

The panoramic view of Sigiriya Rock Fortress :

The top of the rock panoramic view is so amazing, eye catching; this view of beautiful greenery surrounding relaxes and calms one’s mind. We could see breathtaking view of sky from the top of the Sigiriya. This amazing nature view attracts tourists easily. It’s worth watching this view by spending there some time on the top. Whole surrounding area is visible very well, even miles far away, white color standing Buddha statue is visible in the middle of the jungle. It is such a spectacular view and I have no words to explain this beauty comprised. I’m very sure sunrise and sunset from this location would be an incredible view for whoever enjoys being with nature.

As there were beehives closer to the stairs people should climb without making noises such as singing, playing drums or should avoid loud voices. Warning notices were put up for the safety of tourists on this regard specially when passing this area. We could return to the beginning point within 2 -3 hours though it was fully crowded with tourists that day.