Exploring Sigiriya is an unexpectedly cheerful adventure. This ancient palace is a testament to the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s past, and its location atop a 200-metre-high rock fortress makes it a truly unique experience. From the vibrant colours of the frescoes to the lively wildlife that surrounds the ruins, the site is full of life. Here is an exploration of the ancient history and cheerful atmosphere of Sigiriya.
Ancient History
The ruins of Sigiriya are a journey back in time. Dating back to the 5th century AD, the palace was built by King Kashyapa. It was a royal residence, fortress, and Buddhist monastery, as well as a pleasure palace for the king and his court. The palace is surrounded by an extensive network of gardens, waterways, and defensive walls. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most remarkable monuments of ancient Sri Lanka.
The most impressive feature of Sigiriya is the 200-metre-high rock fortress on which the palace is located. The rock face is adorned with intricate frescoes of Buddhist deities, which are believed to have been painted in the 5th century. The palace complex is a maze of passages, chambers, and galleries, which are filled with a variety of sculptures, paintings, and inscriptions.
The palace is also surrounded by an array of water gardens, which were designed to create a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. There are several pools, fountains, and canals, as well as a large reservoir. The gardens are filled with a variety of plants and trees, including fragrant jasmine and frangipani.
A Cheerful Adventure
The atmosphere of Sigiriya is surprisingly cheerful. The colourful frescoes on the rock face are a delight to behold, and the gardens are filled with the sound of birdsong. The ruins of the palace complex are also filled with life, with monkeys scampering over the walls and lizards sunning themselves on the rocks.
The views from the top of the rock fortress are spectacular, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside. The nearby villages are a reminder of the area’s rural lifestyle, and the ancient irrigation systems are a reminder of the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Sri Lankans.
Exploring the ruins of Sigiriya is a great way to get a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s past. The palace complex is full of interesting artefacts, from ancient coins to pottery shards. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the area and the culture of the people who once lived there.
The nearby town of Dambulla is also worth a visit. The ancient Buddhist temple is filled with colourful frescoes, and the nearby market is a great place to find souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Exploring Sigiriya is an unexpectedly cheerful adventure. From the vibrant frescoes to the lively wildlife, the site is full of life. It’s a great way to get a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s past and to experience the grandeur of its ancient history. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an adventure-filled exploration, Sigiriya is a must-visit destination.
