Sigiriya is one of the main archaeologial attractions in Sri Lanka, and is a UNESCO world heritage site.
The site contains the ruins of a 5th century palace, which sits on top of a huge sheer-sided rock. From the top of the rock there are views over the whole of the plain below.
The site is famous for the frescoes depicting female figures, and for the lion gate with its huge lion's paws either side of the staircase ascending to the palace. At the foot of the rock are the remains of the water gardens.
The climb up the rock is made by stone staircases lower down, and higher up by means of iron staircases which have been attached to the rock. You should have some water and food before the climb. Sigiriya is easily accessed on a tour, or by bus from Dambulla.
Built in the 5 century AC this magnificent complex of geometrically laid gardens, pools, fountains (still working today) as well as oldest surviving murals of maidens has been a palace of the King Kasyapa. Built on top of a 200m high rock, the entrance to the climb once has been through a lions head. Only the huge paws remain today. Half way up the rock are beautifully drawn painted bare breast Maidens whose existence is still a mystery. Which should be the eighth wonder of the world, Sigiriaya, is a must see item in Sri Lanka. The occupation of the gigantic fortress ended when Kasyapa killed himself in a battle with his brother.
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In northeast of Colombo, Polonnaruwa is almost 216 km , 140kms southest of Anuradhapura and 140kms of northeast of Kandy. It is a well-known city of ancient dagobas in Sri Lanka's medieval capital (11th - 12th Century AD), beautiful parks, moonstones, stunningly beautiful statues and massive buildings.
The Lotus Bath, The majestic King's Council Chamber, the Lanka Thilaka Viharaya, the statue of the great king polonnaruwa, Parakramabahu and the Gal Viharaya (rock temple), are a memorable of this capital's sights. The Sea of Parakrama - a vast 12th century man-made reservoir dominates the city. Although it is nearly 1000 years old, it is much younger than Anuradhapura, and in much better repair. Moreover, the monuments here are located in a more compact area, and their development is easier to follow
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Do you know of anything else about the enviroment that makes you happy to come to Sigiriya? If it's a city or neighbourhood are there any climatic, or microclimatic features that you could tell others about. If the location is a building or place, then can you describe it maybe as "sun-lit", or "cold in the mornings". We'd love you to contribute - why not let us know in the drop box below
Graphic showing average weather in Sigiriya in Celcius and Centimeters (Change to Farenheit and Inches)
Month | Temp °C | Rainfall Cm | Temp °F | Rainfall Inches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Jan | 24.8 | 355 | 76.6 | 139.8 |
Feb | 25.6 | 170.1 | 78.1 | 67 |
Mar | 26.8 | 158.4 | 80.2 | 62.4 |
Apr | 27.5 | 248.1 | 81.5 | 97.7 |
May | 27.8 | 198.5 | 82 | 78.1 |
Jun | 27.2 | 143.3 | 81 | 56.4 |
Jul | 27 | 129.8 | 80.6 | 51.1 |
Aug | 27 | 131.7 | 80.6 | 51.9 |
Sep | 26.9 | 140 | 80.4 | 55.1 |
Oct | 26.4 | 322.1 | 79.5 | 126.8 |
Nov | 25.7 | 387.9 | 78.3 | 152.7 |
Dec | 25 | 431.2 | 77 | 169.8 |
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