Pidurangala Rock

Why visit Pidurangala Rock?

It offers the one view Sigiriya itself can't: the whole fortress rock framed by forest, lakes and distant hills. At sunrise the light comes up behind you and catches the face of Sigiriya.

The site has its own history. Monks lived in its caves long before Sigiriya's palace was built, and a large brick reclining Buddha lies under a rock overhang near the top.

Top attractions and things to do

• Pidurangala Royal Cave Temple

  The temple at the foot of the rock, where the path begins. It is an active place of worship.

• Reclining Buddha

  A restored brick reclining Buddha under an overhang on the way up.

• The final scramble

  The last section climbs over and between large boulders, with no built steps.

• Summit view

  A broad, flat summit facing Sigiriya, with views over the plains in every direction.

About Pidurangala

Pidurangala is a large rock just north of Sigiriya. According to tradition, it was given to the Buddhist monks when King Kashyapa built his palace on Sigiriya, and it has been a monastery ever since.

The climb is short but steep. It rewards you with what many consider the best view of Sigiriya rock itself, rising out of the forest.

The climb

The path starts at a working temple at the foot of the rock, where you pay a temple entry ticket and remove your shoes for the temple area. Stone steps lead up through the forest to a large brick reclining Buddha in a shallow cave.

The last section is a scramble over boulders, which needs hands and a little agility. On top, a broad flat rock gives a 360-degree view. Allow around an hour to an hour and a half for the round trip.

Sunrise or sunset?

Both are popular. Sunrise is cooler, often with mist over the forest, but means climbing with a torch. Sunset lights up Sigiriya beautifully but brings more people, and the descent is in fading light.

Either way, bring water, wear shoes with grip, and cover your shoulders and knees for the temple area.

Planning your visit

Suggested time

Allow about two hours for the climb, time at the top and the descent. Most travellers stay in the Sigiriya area and do Pidurangala for sunrise or sunset on a separate visit from Sigiriya. (Guidance only.)

Best time to visit

Sunrise is the favourite time for light and cooler temperatures; sunset is also popular. The Cultural Triangle is generally drier from around January to September. The summit can be crowded at sunrise in peak season.

Getting there

Pidurangala is a few minutes by road from Sigiriya village. The walk starts at the temple car park; a tuk-tuk or your driver can take you there in the dark for a sunrise climb.

Check current details before travelling: prices, opening hours, access and seasonal conditions change.

Part of a visit to Sigiriya

Pidurangala Rock is usually visited as part of a stay in or near Sigiriya. Our Sigiriya guide covers where to stay, other sights and how long to spend there.

Visitor tips

• Cover shoulders and knees for the temple section, and carry a sarong if you're wearing shorts for the climb.
• Bring a torch for a pre-dawn start and shoes with good grip for the boulders.
• The final scramble needs hands as well as feet; take it slowly and help each other on the rocks.
• A ticket is bought at the temple. Check current arrangements on the day.

Experiences around Pidurangala Rock

Plan with our guides

Pidurangala Rock: frequently asked questions