Called by many people “The 8th Wonder of the World” this ancient Sigiriya rock fortress is located near the town of Dambulla. It is a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of granite approximately 180 m (590 ft) high.[2]According to the ancient Sigiriya tours Sri Lanka chronicle the Cūḷavaṃsa, this area was selected by King Kashyapa (AD 477–495) for his new capital. He built his fortress/palace on top of this rock and decorated its sides with colourful frescos.

The name of this place is derived from this structure; Siṃhagiri, the Lion Rock. Sigiriya history and facts The capital and the royal palace were abandoned after the king’s death and it was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century.[3] Sigiriya today is a UNESCO listed World Heritage site and is one of the best preserved examples of Sigiriya history and facts ancient urban planning Private tours to Sigiriya.
Why Sigiriya is a Must-Visit?
✅ UNESCO World Heritage Site – One of Sri Lanka’s best-preserved ancient wonders.
✅ Lion Rock Climb – A thrilling ascent past ancient frescoes (Sigiriya Damsels) and the legendary lion’s paw entrance.
✅ Stunning 360° Views – Panoramic vistas of lush forests and distant mountains from the summit.
✅ Rich History – Once a royal palace, later a Buddhist monastery, now a bucket-list attraction.
✅ Easy Access from Colombo – Perfect for a day trip or part of a cultural tour with Sigiriya tours Sri Lanka.
Explore Sigiriya rock fortress with Expert Guides
At Rainbow Tours Sri Lanka, we offer luxury-guided tours & Private tours to Sigiriya, tailored for travelers from the UK, USA, and Australia. Enjoy:
🔹 Skip-the-line tickets & early-access visits to avoid crowds.
🔹 Expert historians sharing tales of King Kashyapa’s reign.
🔹 Comfortable transfers from Colombo, Kandy, or Dambulla.
🔹 Customizable itineraries – Pair Sigiriya with Dambulla Cave Temple or Minneriya Safari.
📅 Book Your Sigiriya Adventure Today! – Experience the “Eighth Wonder of the World” with Sri Lanka’s top-rated tour agency.
