Pidurangala Rock, Central Province, Sri Lanka

5Ulrikbuchert 5:00 PM Jul 10, 2022

Beautiful views of the area and Lion's Rock
We can highly recommend climbing the Pidurangala Rock after having climbed Lion's Rock. From the summit there's a phenomenal view of the area and Lion's Rock. The trail to the summit is relatively easy, but consider hiring a guide for the trip. If you do ask for Sunil who gave us a wonderful experience on the climb. Actually, climbing both rocks in Sigiriya should be mandatory :)

4Kai Wah 5:00 PM Mar 9, 2020

Panoramic overlooking Sirigiya Rock
An entrance fee of LKR1,000 for foreigners to enter to this place. Before climbing up the rock, there is a Buddhist Temple at the foot of the climb. No shoes are allowed and appropriate dressing is required. The Buddhist temple was built since 5th century by King Kashyapa who killed his father (King Dhatusena) who fled to Sirigiya to avoid retaliation from his half brother, Mugalan. The built of the temple was meant for meditation purpose for the monks. Interesting graffiti within the temple with local worshippers and ritual can be seen within the temple. Two parts to climb up Pidurangala Rock. First part is pretty straight forward with proper stair case till reaching the Reclining Buddha statue at the cave. Pretty impressive authentic statue of the Reclining Buddha. Second part is after the Reclining Buddha where is more tricky with unclear path as one has to manoeuvre between boulders to reach to the top. Avoid going alone as it is possible to get lost or asking other travellers who are on the way back from the top, since there are some misleading paths. Precautions is required as it can be risky upon falling from the boulders. Upon reaching the top, the 360 degree panoramic view is well worth it especially overlooking Sirigiya Rock. Some travellers are here for sunrise or sunset watching. Our suggestion is to do Pidurangala first then proceed to Sirigiya since the later has more details to see in terms of the ruins of the palace on top, plus it is easier to do Sirigiya with proper staircase. Winds on top of the rock can be quite strong and nice to sit/ line down to relax. Total climb takes 30-45 mins to reach the top depends on individual fitness. Definitely a “No” for anyone who has phobia for heights and faint-hearted. One may need to use own discretion whether to climb to the top as we saw a couple in their 50’s gave up climbing the 2nd part of the climb, whereas a 85 years old man managed to reach to the top.