{"id":3015,"date":"2019-06-27T14:05:59","date_gmt":"2019-06-27T14:05:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/?page_id=3015"},"modified":"2019-06-27T14:05:59","modified_gmt":"2019-06-27T14:05:59","slug":"sigiriya","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/sri-lanka\/where-to-stay\/sigiriya\/","title":{"rendered":"Sigiriya Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

Sigiriya Guide<\/h2>\n
\"Lose
Lose yourself in the history and beauty of Sigiriya!
https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/Ih3lrM9d5zM<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Are you dying to delve into the history of Sri Lanka? Schedule in a trip to Sigiriya! This cultural hub was named a world heritage site in 1982 and is home to several fascinating historical sites. The best-known of these is the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient ruin perched atop the famous Lion Rock. This isn\u2019t all the region has to offer, however; Sigiriya has a wealth of sights and activities to keep every type of traveller happy!<\/span><\/p>\n

Whether you want to marvel at the temples, wander ancient cities, or explore the national parks, you\u2019ll find the ultimate mix of culture and adventure in Sigiriya. But what are the best things to see and do in the region, and what time of year should you visit?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Price<\/th>\nGood for<\/th>\nAirport<\/th>\nKids<\/th>\nCulture<\/th>\nBeaches<\/th>\nDining<\/th>\nNightlife<\/th>\nSurf<\/th>\nSafari<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
$$$<\/span><\/td>\nCulture, wildlife<\/td>\n90mi<\/td>\n* * *<\/span><\/td>\n* ** *<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n** *<\/span><\/td>\n*\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n*\u00a0** *<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Who should go to Sigiriya?<\/h2>\n

From ancient palaces to elephant safaris, the attractions of Sigiriya are diverse and varied. This means that every type of traveller can find an activity to suit them, and Sigiriya is a must-see for anyone hoping to learn more about Sri Lanka\u2019s culture and history!<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  • Families<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Solo travellers<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Couples<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Groups<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Wildlife lovers<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    When should you go to Sigiriya?<\/h2>\n

    For the best weather<\/h5>\n

    The temperature in Sigiriya stays consistently high throughout the year, ranging from 26 – 30 C (79 – 86 F). The driest months, however, are <\/span>from May to September. <\/b>Visit at this time of the year for the least rainfall and sunniest skies!<\/span><\/p>\n

    \"Visit
    Visit Sigiriya from May to September for the best weather<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
    To beat the crowds<\/h5>\n

    January, July\u00a0and August are the busiest months in Sigiriya, when many tourists time their travels with the holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit in <\/span>April, May <\/b>or <\/span>June <\/b>when the weather will be pleasant and the streets slightly emptier!<\/span><\/p>\n

    To see the animals<\/h5>\n

    If you plant to visit Minneriya National Park you\u2019ll want to time your visit for the annual elephant gathering! This incredible phenomenon takes place during the dry season months of <\/span>July, August <\/b>and <\/span>September <\/b>when hundreds of elephants gather to drink from the Minniyeria reservoir.<\/span><\/p>\n

    For the coolest events<\/h5>\n

    The Deep Jungle Festival<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Where? <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

    When? <\/i><\/b>August\/September<\/span><\/p>\n

    More than just a music festival, <\/span>Deep Jungle<\/span><\/a> is an unmissable celebration of arts, music and outdoor adventure. This three-day festival has achieved global recognition for its efforts in supporting sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka and draws a vibrant, varied and international crowd. Artists perform in genres ranging from Reggae to Psytrance, and the festival also features traditional acts from Sri Lankan performers.<\/span><\/p>\n

    This extravaganza of action, excitement, music and food is a great place to try out new activities! Take part in kayaking, slack-lining, cycling and so much more, while marveling at the range of incredible dance, music and art exhibitions that take place throughout the festival. The Deep Jungle Festival is truly one-of-a-kind and the most memorable way to spend 3 days in Sigiriya!<\/span><\/p>\n

    Things to see and do in Sigiriya<\/h2>\n
    Hike to the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress<\/h5>\n

    As the most iconic of Sigiriya\u2019s historical sites, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of the region\u2019s most popular attractions. Situated 200m off the ground atop the famous Lion Rock, this ancient palace is an unmissable historic site in Sigiriya. The fortress was originally the home of King Kashyapa and his harem and features exquisite paintings, carvings and tapestries. <\/span>Dating back to the 5th century<\/span><\/a>, the palace has since fallen into disrepair and only 20% of the original ponds, pavilions and gardens remain.<\/span><\/p>\n

    \"Hike
    Hike Lion Rock to check out the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    The views from the top take in the ancient ruins and gardens surrounding the palace, and the fortress itself is fascinating to walk around. Hike to the top to take in the spectacular scenery and immerse yourself in Sri Lanka\u2019s rich cultural history!<\/span><\/p>\n

    See the elephants at the Minneriya National Park<\/h5>\n

    The <\/span>Minneriya National Park<\/span><\/a> is one of the most popular in the region and is home to several incredible wildlife species. Although the park houses rare species, such as leopards and sloth bears, the park is best-known for its majestic elephant herds.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Just a 45-minute drive from Sigiriya, the Minneriya National Park is conveniently close to the town. This makes it the perfect spot for a day-trip from Sigiriya if you want to catch a glimpse of Sri Lanka\u2019s incredible animals during your stay!<\/span><\/p>\n