A Guide to Pidurangala Rock, Sri Lanka's Most Incredible Viewpoint
If you haven't climbed the to the top of Pidurangala to take in the epic views, have you even been to Sri Lanka?!
From what to know before you visit, whether sunrise or sunset is better, and how to get to the top, this guide has you covered.
UPDATED - July 2024
Often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, Sigiriya is one of the 'must see' places on any Sri Lankan bucket list.
Located right in the heart of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya, otherwise known as Lion Rock, is an ancient palace and fortress built in 480AD atop a unique rock island that rises 200m above the jungle below.
The Fortress, full of abandoned palaces, gardens, waterways and frescoes, has always been an important part of Sri Lanka's history, and it has become one of the country’s most visited cultural heritage sites (read our guide to Sigiriya here).
While there's no doubting Sigiriya's astounding beauty, historical significance, and dramatic features, at USD 30pp, it can be a little expensive for those on a strict budget (ie. backpackers like us!).
Fortunately, Pidurangala Rock, located adjacent to Sigiriya, provides equally epic views of the surrounding area, a historic cave complex of its own, a tenth of the crowds, and the most incredible view overlooking the famous Sigiriya rock.
Hiking Pidurangala Rock for sunrise has become something of a right of passage for backpackers visiting Sri Lanka (follow our Sri Lanka itinerary), and it was something we had to experience for ourselves (we’ve now done it twice, incidentally).
After a quick, sweaty ascent to the peak, we stared in awe as the sun lit up the misty forests, lakes and villages, showering Sigiriya and the vast central Sri Lankan landscapes in golden hues.
Core. Moment. Unlocked.
As a result, we’re of the opinion that you can’t visit Sri Lanka without a visit to Pidurangala and Sigiriya.
Explore Pidurangala Rock yourself with our complete guide, featuring all the tips you need to have a safe and incredible experience.
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PIDURANGALA PLANNING GUIDE
WHERE | Pidurangala Rock, central Sri Lanka
HOW TO GET THERE | Book your transport here
ENTRY FEE | LKR 1,000
HIKE LENGTH | 45 mins - 1 hour
HIKE DIFFICULTY | Medium / Hard
WHAT TO PACK | Water bottle (we use the Grayl), snacks, camera, rain gear
WHERE TO STAY | Hotel Sigiriya, Lakmini Lodge or Back of Beyond Pidurangala
EXPLORE BEYOND PIDURANGALA | Sigiriya, Dambulla Cave Temple, Kaudulla National Park, or Polonnaruwa historic site
HIKING PIDURANGALA ROCK | ENTRY FEES, OPENING HOURS & WHEN TO VISIT
PIDURANGALA ROCK ENTRANCE FEE & OPENING HOURS
The Pidurangala Rock entrance fee is LKR 1,000 per person ($3 USD).
The fee is part of a donation to the Pidurangala Sigiri Rajamaha Viharaya temple that you pass through to commence the hike. The Pidurangala Rock ticket office opens at 5 am and closes at 6 pm, but you’re welcome to stay as long as you like at the summit.
While there's no doubting Sigiriya's astounding beauty, historical significance, and dramatic features, at USD 30pp, hiking Pidurangala Rock is a much more affordable option for those on a budget.
THE DETAILS
Cost | LKR 1,000 per person ($3 USD)
Opening Hours | The Pidurangala Rock ticket office opens at 5 am and closes at 6 pm. These hours are not strictly enforced
IS IT BEST TO VISIT PIDURANGALA FOR SUNRISE OR SUNSET?
In our opinion, Pidurangala is best visited at sunrise.
If you're a keen photographer looking to get some insta-fire, or want a truly magical Pidurangala experience overlooking Sigiriya, getting up before dawn and heading up to watch the sunrise over the surrounding landscapes is wonderful.
Watch as the sun lights up the surrounding jungles, lakes and villages around Sigiriya and Pidurangala, showering the vast landscapes in golden hues.
The feeling of peace from the top of Pidurangala during sunrise is palpable - silence is only broken by the chirp of birds, and the clatter of village life below.
Also, you can always count on human laziness to guarantee that the crowds will be a fraction of their usual size this early in the morning too.
For those of you who aren’t morning people, sunset is equally magical, yet a little busier. In the dry season, the fading light of sunset turns the surrounding area into a golden painting, with Sigiriya as the main subject.
Watch as the sky chameleons itself into pale pastels and deep ochres over the valley.
If you take your photography seriously, try to get there at least an hour before to grab your spot and set things up.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT PIDURANGALA ROCK?
The best time of year to visit and hike Pidurangala is during the dry season, between late December and early April.
For the best chance of a perfect sunrise or sunset, March is prime time, as there’s a limited chance of cloud cover.
Do keep in mind that this is also the hottest part of the year, with temperatures and humidity exceedingly high, so always pack plenty of fluids.
WEAR PROPER SHOES, BRING WATER
The hike to Pidurangala Rock is not for the faint-hearted (more on that below), and, coupled with the Sri Lankan humidity and heat, can make this hike quite challenging for the unprepared.
Here are a few items we recommend bringing on your Pidurangala hike:
WATER | Bring your own water bottle for the hike (say NO to plastic, peeps!). We use the Grayl water purification bottles, which allows us to fill up from any water source, anywhere in the world
HIKING BOOTS/PROPER SHOES | Although the hike isn’t too long, we definitely recommend wearing a pair of hiking boots, or some sneakers/trainers for the hike.
CAMERA | The views at the top of Pidurangala are completely insta-worthy, so make sure you pack your camera to snap some bangers. We use the Sony A7RII
SARONG | As the entry to Pidurangala is through a Buddhist temple, you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees when passing through. To avoid any issues, bring a sarong/something to cover up with, or wear clothes that cover key areas
HEADLAMP | If you’re hiking up for sunrise, or coming down after sunset, we recommend bringing a headlamp to guide the way
read before you go | 39 essential sri lanka travel tips
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CLIMB PIDURANGALA ROCK?
This really depends on your level of fitness and desire to explore beyond the rock itself.
Those with a reasonable level of fitness who are also stopping to look at things along the way should be able to complete the 500+ steps to the top in 45 minutes.
However, do also factor in some decent extra time if hiking in the morning, as well as spending time at the summit.
All in all, we’d recommend setting aside at least 3 hours for your visit.
ACCESSIBILITY IS AN ISSUE
The only way to the top of the Pidurangala is via a pretty tough 30 - 40 minute hike, ascending quickly over a rocky path, until a section of bouldering to get to the summit.
In short, it’s unfortunately not very accessible.
If you have issues with mobility, unfortunately this might be a spot you'll have to pass on.
Fortunately, there are also plenty of amazing spots around Sigiriya to witness this 8th wonder of the world.
HOW TO GET TO PIDURANGALA
We recommend travelling to Sigiriya from Dambulla, mid-way between Kandy and the ancient rock fortress (and also home to the famous Dambulla Rock Temples).
For a full Sri Lanka itinerary including both Dambulla and Sigiriya, don’t forget to check out our 3-week route guide!
From Sigiriya, it’s a super easy tuk-tuk ride to the base of Pidurangala Rock, where you enter through Pidurangala Sigiri Rajamaha Viharaya temple (map). If you’re planning to visit for sunrise, we suggest planning ahead and organising a tuk-tuk to pick you up 1.5 hours before sunrise.
We don’t recommend walking to the site as wild elephants roam the area, and an encounter with them is something best avoided.
Alternatively, from Dambulla, you have two transport options:
BY BUS | At the Dambulla Main Bus Station, take the regular bus service to Sigiriya (they run every 30 minutes between 6:45 am - 6:00 pm). The journey will take about an hour, and tickets should set you back at about LKR 100 per person, one way.
The final bus stop is also just a 5-10-minute walk from the main ticket counter for Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
BY TUK TUK | Alternatively, you can also grab a tuk-tuk in Dambulla for anywhere between LKR 600-1000 depending on how well you can (respectfully) negotiate your fare..! The tuk-tuk journey will take about 30 minutes, and is a good option for those basing themselves in Dambulla but who want to see Sigiriya (particularly for sunrise!).
the best of sri lanka | our three-week sri lanka itinerary
THE HISTORY OF PIDURANGALA ROCK
Both Sigirya and Pidurangala Rock are volcanic hills rising out of the lowland jungles and central plains of Sri Lanka, and are steeped in history and mythology.
Briefly, when King Kashyapa arrived in Sigiriya in the 5th century, he discovered Sigiriya itself was a monastery complex. Wanting to build a fortress atop Sigiriya for himself, he offered to build them an alternative, similar monastery at close by Pidurangala Rock.
As the legend goes, King Kashyapa offered a ‘golden monastery’, or ‘Aran gala’, which would later become Pidurangala, which literally means "offered piles of gold”.
The monks duly obliged, and a Buddhist monastery was built in the caves and rocks around Pidurangala.
Now, all that remains is the ancient cave temple and reclining Buddha which you pass on the way up, and a stupa near the temple entrance which is believed to mark the spot where King Kashyapa was cremated.
So despite the epic insta-views, know that monks have been walking these very footpaths and enjoying the vistas for over 1,000 years!
THE PIDURANGALA ROCK HIKE | OUR EXPERIENCE
The hike to the top of Pidurangala is, to be blunt, taxing.
Having now done the hike twice, it doesn’t get any easier, as the rapid ascent up many stairs leads to aching quads and calves. That being said, the views are unequivocally worth it.
The hike to Pidurangala takes around 30 - 45 minutes, depending on your fitness level.
START
It starts at Pidurangala Sigiri Rajamaha Viharaya (map), a white temple at the base of the rock. Here, you’ll need to pay your entrance fee (LKR 500 / $3 USD) before the first of the seemingly endless stairs start (also, it’s a temple, so you’ll need to cover up).
The trail itself follows a well-maintained, if slightly ‘off-road’ pathway through the jungle, slowly ascending over rocks and tree roots, through caves, and past rocky cliffs before making its way to the first stop on the hike, Pidurangala temple.
If you’re hiking up for sunrise, we suggest stopping by the ruins of Pudurangala Temple on the return journey, as sunrise should be fast approaching.
MIDDLE
The next part of the hike is somewhat tricky but seriously fun. From the temple, it’s about a 15-minute hike which requires a decent amount of bouldering, climbing and shimmying between giant boulders and cliffs.
It’s not necessarily a hike at this point, more a European style via Ferrata, but in the heart of Sri Lanka.
While it’s not overly hard to pass through this point, we do recommend taking your time to avoid any injuries, especially if hiking in the dark.
SUMMIT
After a few large steps, you’ll tackle one final lunge to get onto the main part of Pidurangala rock, before a small walk up to witness the panoramic views you’ve been waiting to see.
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THE VIEWS FROM PIDURANGALA
The 360° views from the summit of Pidurangala will blow you away - there’s simply no better view in all of Sri Lanka, especially during sunrise or sunset.
To the south lies Sigiriya, where the best views are head.
Facing Sigiriya, turn right and move down the rock face a little for the clearest views, framed by the jungles below.
The majority of the summit is a curved rock which allows for plenty of exploration, so don’t be afraid to take in the scenery from all angles, including over Minneraya and Kaudulla National Parks to the west.
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PIDURANGALA ROCK TEMPLE
On the way down from Pidurangala (or on the way up, if you’re hiking up for sunset), you’ll come across the ancient remains of Pidurangala Temple.
While not much remains, the most impressive sight is a 12m reclining Buddha which takes pride of place under a rock face.
arts of the original structure remain intact, while the rest has been reconstructed using bricks, including the head, which was removed by treasure hunters.
Interestingly, the reclining Buddha statue actually faces directly to the Lion’s Paw of Sigiriya.
There is also a 7th-century rock inscription of ‘pidu’, ‘ran’, and good’, literally translated as "offered piles of gold”.
WHERE TO STAY AT PIDURANGALA OR SIGIRIYA
HOTEL SIGIRIYA
One of Sigiriya’s premiere hotels, Hotel Sigiriya offers five-star luxury overlooking the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
The rooms are large, modern and comfortable, and the on-site restaurant is top-notch, however, the hotel’s key feature is the stunning pool overlooking the fortress.
If you’re looking to splash out, you can’t go past Hotel Sigiriya.
BOOK | Hotel Sigiriya
LAKMINI LODGE
Where we stayed during our 2023 trip to Sigiriya, Lakmini Lodge is minimal, modern, and affordable.
Run by the most lovely local family, the hotel features spacious rooms, a wonderful breakfast, and a rooftop that offers exceptional views over Sigirya.
It’s also well located, close to local restaurants, and within a short tuk-tuk ride to the Sigiriya entry.
BOOK | Lakmini Lodge
BACK OF BEYOND TREEHOUSE
We stayed in a treehouse at Back of Beyond Pidurangala (check their website here), a sustainable eco-lodge in the heart of the national park and only a two-minute walk from the beginning of the Pidurangala hike.
We recommend staying here if you’re looking for a unique experience in the Sigiriya/Pidurangala area!
BOOK | Back of Beyond Pidurangala
HOSTEL
Alternatively, for those on a strict budget, One Night Hostel is a good option. Located around 1km to Sigiriya, and 2km to Pidurangala, it’s a super central location.
Standard 6-bed dorms (which are air-conditioned!) will cost around LKR 1,500 ($8 USD per night).
BOOK | One Night Hostel Sigiriya
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RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL AT PIDURANGALA
Before hiking Pidurangala, make sure to take these simple measures to make your visit as responsible and sustainable as possible.
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE | Plastic is not allowed at Pidurangala (although this is unfortunately loosely enforced), so bring your own water bottle for the hike.
We use the Grayl water purification bottles, which allow us to fill up from any water source, anywhere in the world (including train taps!). It’s the best investment we’ve ever made!
DRESS CODE | In Sri Lanka, a fairly strict dress code applies when visiting sights of religious significance, such as temples or stupas. Cover your shoulders and knees when passing through the temple before your hike. This applies to passing through the Pidurangala Sigiri Rajamaha Viharaya temple, where you’ll need to remove your shoes before entering.
DON’T LITTER | Unfortunately, there’s a mountain of plastic at the summit of Pidurangala. If you do take plastic with you on the hike (which, you shouldn’t!), remember to take it with you and dispose of it later. Keep Pidurangala pristine for the next visitor
DON’T TAKE ELEPHANT RIDES | Thankfully, elephant safaris aren’t a thing at either the actual Sigiriya or Pidurangala attractions - but they do still operate through the surrounding town.
We witnessed several tourists taking elephant rides which was disappointing to see in 2019, that’s for sure. If you don’t know why it’s unethical, read our guide to animal-friendly travel here
READ | Our top responsible travel tips , 39 essential Sri Lanka travel tips
THINGS TO DO AROUND PIDURANGALA | DAY TRIPS FROM SIGIRIYA
Sigiriya forms one point of the so-called Sri Lankan ‘cultural triangle’ of Dambulla and Polonnaruwa, and both are worth making visits to whilst you’re in the area.
Here are our recommendations for further explorations around Sigiriya:
EXPLORE THE ANCIENT ROCK FORTRESS OF SIGIRIYA
If you’re a backpacker visiting Pidurangala, you might have decided to give Sigiriya a miss… but we urge you to reconsider.
It may be expensive, but it’s one of the wonders of the world, and Sri Lanka’s most iconic attraction - a visit to the country wouldn’t be worthwhile without actually stepping on top of Sigiriya and admiring the views far and wide (read our guide to Sigiriya here).
THE DETAILS
Where | Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Cost | USD $36pp for entry to Sigiriya
READ | Our complete guide to Sigiriya, Sri Lanka’s rock fortress wonder
POLONNARUWA
Just an hour away from Sigiriya by tuk-tuk, the ruined city of Polonnaruwa was once the powerful capital of ancient Sri Lanka.
Built between the 10th and 12th centuries, this was the thriving commercial and religious epicentre of the country. Today, the ruins of many temples, palaces, and religious buildings can be explored and the ancient site is vaguely reminiscent of the Angkor temples of Cambodia, just not as grand or well preserved.
That being said, the site is still wonderful to explore.
Our visit coincided with the hottest month, April, so exploring the site was tough due to the oppressive heat. We actually hired a tuk-tuk to drive us in between the best spot (which, if you've explored Sri Lanka in April heat, you’ll understand!), which made exploring mildly possible.
Alternatively, the best way to explore the Polonnaruwa complex is via bike.
THE DETAILS
Where | Polonnaruwa
Cost | Polonnaruwa entry: LKR 3,750
Recommended tours | Polonnaruwa + Mineriya day tour from Dambulla , Polonnaruwa day trip from Colombo
DAMBULLA ROCK CAVE TEMPLE
We’d probably recommend making the trip to Dambulla Rock Cave Temple on your way to or from Sigiriya, considering Dambulla is the entry/exit point of most adventures to the rock fortress.
The UNESCO World Heritage Royal rock temple complex of Dambulla is home to some of the most impressive historical artwork in Sri Lanka, and a must-see on any Sri Lankan itinerary.
There are five separate caves with over 150 Buddhist statues and paintings, some dating back over 2,000 years. Murals cover over 2,100 square metres of cave walls, depicting Buddha’s life, while the views overlooking the surrounding valley, (with Sigiriya in the distance!) are just beautiful.
THE DETAILS
Where | Dambulla cave temple complex
Opening hours | 7 am - 7 pm every day (ticket counter closes 5 pm)
Cost | LKR 1,500
Recommended tours | Sigiriya and Dambulla private full-day tour from Colombo , Dambulla Cave Temple + Village Tour
Where to stay in Dambulla | Search and book Dambulla accommodation here
SAFARI WITH THE ELEPHANTS AT KAUDULLA NATIONAL PARK
The grassland plains of Kaudulla National Park, just an hour’s north of Sigiriya, are some of the best elephant-spotting lands in the whole of Sri Lanka. Over 200 elephants call the park home, along with a scattering of crocodiles, monkeys, and a few shy leopards.
The advantage of Kaudulla is that it can be visited year-round (Sri Lanka’s other famous parks close depending on the season) — so you are pretty much guaranteed an elephant encounter on your Sri Lanka travels should you end up coming here.
Safaris are generally half-day, can be taken in the morning or afternoon, and include pick-up from your accommodation in Sigirya or Dambulla. Book here.
THE DETAILS
Where | Kaudulla National Park
Cost | USD $50ish pp
BOOK | This exceptional tour of Kaudulla National Park
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN SRI LANKA
Overwhelmingly, we’ve found the country to be extremely safe and friendly, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t issues with petty theft or personal safety at times.
You absolutely need to have travel insurance that ensures you and your belongings are protected here.
Here are our recommendations, based on 8+ years of full-time travel:
FOR TRAVELLERS | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out-of-pocket fees.
* The Common Wanderer readers 5% off your policy by booking through our link here
FOR DIGITAL NOMADS | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
CAR INSURANCE | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
EXPERIENCE MORE OF SRI LANKA WITH THESE POSTS
SRI LANKA TRAVEL TIPS | 31 incredible things to do in Sri Lanka, Our essential 3-week Sri Lanka Itinerary, Our 7-day Sri Lanka Itinerary, Everything you need to know before you visit Sri Lanka (39 essential tips!), Where to stay in Galle
SRI LANKA CITY GUIDES | We’ve got in-depth guides to Colombo, Galle, Kandy, Jaffna, Hiriketiya, Mirissa Beach, Ahangama Beach
CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS | Our essential guides to both Sigiriya and Pidurangala, A guide to Polonnaruwa, How to visit Yala National Park, and Udawalawe National Park
ELLA, SRI LANKA | Our complete guide to Ella, a guide to the Nine Arch Bridge, How to see Diyaluma Falls, Ella accommodation options for every budget (+ our recommendations)
TRANSPORT GUIDES | Our definitive guide to the Kandy to Ella train, how to get from Colombo to Kandy, how to get from Colombo to Galle
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Read our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF SRI LANKA WITH OUR GUIDES
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