Avukana Buddha Statue
A 5th-century rock fortress with ancient frescoes, water gardens, and stunning panoramic views from its summit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat heat & crowds
Avukana Buddha Statue
Best Time
Beat heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 5th-century rock fortress with ancient frescoes, water gardens, and stunning panoramic views from its summit.
"Sigiriya is one of the most fascinating and breathtaking historical sites in Sri Lanka."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing over 1200 steps, so good footwear is essential for the ascent.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The climb is hot and humid; staying hydrated is crucial.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
The main attraction
Climb the ancient rock fortress for breathtaking 360° views and a glimpse into King Kashyapa's magnificent era.
Sigiriya Frescoes
Midway up the rock
Marvel at these ancient, vibrant paintings of celestial maidens, a testament to Sri Lanka's artistic heritage.
Lion's Paw Entrance
Ascending the rock
Pass through the iconic, colossal lion's paws, the remnants of a grand entrance to the upper palace.
Pidurangala Rock
Opposite Sigiriya Rock
Hike this nearby rock for stunning sunrise views of Sigiriya Rock itself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Understand the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing over 1200 steps, so good footwear is essential for the ascent.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The climb is hot and humid; staying hydrated is crucial.
🎟️ Buy Tickets Early
Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the top are incredible; don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing over 1200 steps, so good footwear is essential for the ascent.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The climb is hot and humid; staying hydrated is crucial.
🎟️ Buy Tickets Early
Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the top are incredible; don't forget your camera!
🏛️ Visit the Museum
Gain historical context before your climb by visiting the museum at the ticket office.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sigiriya is overwhelmingly praised as a breathtaking historical site with stunning views and rich cultural significance. Visitors highlight the unforgettable climb, the ancient frescoes, and the panoramic vistas from the summit. Some find the entrance fee steep, and the midday heat can be intense, but early morning visits are highly recommended to mitigate these issues.
"One the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. Absolutely loved it! It was a bit crowded but still worth the visit. Tourists pay so much more compared to the locals, $35 per person! No need to buy tickets in advance."
Shimurasaki
"Absolutely stunning views, but be prepared for crowds!
Climbing Sigiriya Rock is one of the highlights of Sri Lanka. The rock fortress dates back to the 5th century and once served as King Kashyapa’s royal citadel, but the site was also an important monastic complex both before and after his reign. This adds an extra layer of depth to the place, knowing that monks lived and meditated in the caves around the rock.
We had a guide, who was interesting and helpful, but not strictly necessary — you can read the most important historical facts online beforehand, and there are information boards along the path.
The ascent takes you past beautiful ancient gardens and you’ll see the famous Sigiriya frescoes on the way down (taking pictures of the frescoes is not alllowed).
The view from the summit is breathtaking — endless green landscapes in every direction and a truly unforgettable panorama.
That said, it can get very crowded, so expect some waiting time on narrow stairways. Plan around two hours for the climb up and down, depending on your pace and the pace of others ahead of you.
Overall, totally worth it for the scenery and history. A must-visit!"
Oliver Kaftan
"It’s my 2nd time visiting Sigiriya after 12 years. Still it is gorgeous and the forest around Sigiriya is really beautiful. I can say Sri Lanka is a beautiful land after I visit Sigiriya.
As a foreigner, we should pay $55 for adults and free for kids. There are some shops you can find beverages and suveniours like magnets at the exit. I recommend to visit Sigiriya museum before you go to Sigiriya as it‘s at the ticket office building (entrance fee is included in your ticket)."
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sigiriya is accessible by road from major cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Dambulla. You can hire a taxi, take a bus, or join a guided tour. Many travelers combine a visit to Sigiriya with Dambulla's cave temples. 
Sigiriya is approximately 20-30 minutes by car from Dambulla, making it a convenient addition to a day trip.
Yes, tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable way to get around locally, including to Sigiriya from nearby towns.
Many Sri Lanka tour packages and group trips feature Sigiriya, often combined with other cultural triangle sites.
For local exploration, tuk-tuks are readily available. For longer distances, consider hiring a car with a driver.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Foreign adult tickets are around $55 USD, while children often get free entry. It's advisable to check the latest prices.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to save time and potentially secure your entry slot.
Sigiriya is typically open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's best to verify current hours before your visit.
Yes, the entrance fee to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress usually includes access to the Sigiriya Museum located near the ticket office.
The climb itself, including stops for photos and viewing frescoes, can take 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your pace.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views. Don't miss capturing the frescoes and the Lion's Paw entrance on your way up.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but be mindful of signs, especially near the frescoes where flash photography might be prohibited.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing stunning images. +1
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and archaeological sites like Sigiriya to preserve the environment and visitor experience.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a zoom lens can be useful for capturing details from afar. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots.
🎫 🌳 Nature & Wildlife
You might spot monkeys, various bird species, and other small animals in the surrounding forests.
Yes, Minneriya National Park, famous for its elephant gatherings, is a short drive from Sigiriya and offers excellent safari opportunities.
The landscape surrounding Sigiriya is lush and green, with beautiful forests and gardens, offering a scenic contrast to the rock.
Sigiriya experiences a tropical climate, meaning it's generally hot and humid, especially during the day.
Kala Wewa reservoir is a significant nearby water body, and the surrounding areas offer natural beauty and historical context.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ascent: A Journey Through History
It's crucial to prepare for the climb. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, as the tropical climate can be intense.
Once you reach the summit, you're rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including lush forests, distant villages, and the iconic Pidurangala Rock.
Beyond the Rock: Exploring the Surroundings
For those interested in wildlife, Minneriya National Park is a must-visit. It's renowned for the 'gathering' of elephants, especially during the dry season, where hundreds of elephants congregate around the reservoir.
Beyond these major sites, the region is dotted with ancient reservoirs like Kala Wewa, which played a vital role in the ancient irrigation systems of Sri Lanka.
Exploring these areas can provide a deeper understanding of the historical and agricultural significance of the region. You can also find local villages offering insights into rural Sri Lankan life, such as through village tours. The Avukana Buddha Statue: A Serene Encounter
+2 Standing at an impressive height of over 46 feet (14 meters), it is considered one of the finest examples of ancient Sri Lankan Buddhist sculpture. The statue depicts a variation of the Abhaya mudra, a gesture of fearlessness, and its intricately carved robe showcases the masterful craftsmanship of its creators. +1The statue is located near the Kala Wewa reservoir, and its serene presence facing the water creates a tranquil atmosphere.
Many visitors find it to be a deeply peaceful and spiritual place, offering a stark contrast to the more adventurous climb of Sigiriya Rock. It's often combined with visits to the Dambulla Cave Temples, making it an easy addition to a cultural itinerary in the region. While not as widely publicized as Sigiriya, the Avukana Buddha Statue is a significant cultural landmark that provides a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage and artistic achievements.
+1 Its imposing yet graceful form and the historical context make it a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the cultural triangle. 
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