The rock 600 feet in height with its palace
on top is yet another wonder and example of the determination and commitment of
the Sinhala Kings. Built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century is one of the most
remarkable creations of the world.
One out of the three corners of the cultural
triangle, Sigiriya is a must see marvel for any visitor, even elderly travels
could take up the challenge with the help of some locals who will assist you to
the top for a small fee. The best time for the climb is in the morning hours where
its much cooler and the rock has not heated up – the other option would be in
case you missed out the morning hours to climb it in the later part of the day,
when the sun is a bit settled. From the Lion terrace which leads to the summit
at 600 feet the view from the royal pavilion is amazingly beautiful, where one
could glaze the entire landscape along with the water gardens.
The
mirror wall, a then finely polished limestone slab of rock like a massive
mirror wall along the side of the rock is said to have been built in order to
help detect any distance enemy, which in the old days came in large groups, so
the troops could be prepared in advance.
On the half way climb, follow the spiral
staircase up which will lead you to a cave where the images of the beautiful
maidens of Sigiriya have been painted on the cave walls. The murals at Sigiriya
have long been admired by both the art connoisseur and average traveler.
Sigiriya has become a goldmine for
archaeologists and art historians. While stone was used at the basement and
ground floor levels, the upper floor levels were all of tropical wood which was
generally used for the construction of pavilions and other edifices. Only a few
of the religious and secular monuments survive, but they continue to attract
travelers from far and wide. Evidence of a sophisticated water system from the
foot of Sigiriya to the summit, both for human consumption and for pleasure,
has been found, and modern hydrologists continue to theorize on the
accomplishments of the early engineers.
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