The UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock in Sri Lanka, offers an amazing view and is understandably one of the most popular spots in the country. However, there’s a viewpoint nearby that might just compete with it, and here’s why it’s worth a look.
Before diving in, after climbing up and down Sigiriya, all we could think about was grabbing a drink and finding a shady spot to relax. In hindsight, the climb itself isn’t too tough, but the heat definitely makes it more challenging.
Once we quenched our thirst with some sugary drinks (and zero regrets about that decision), we decided to hunt for souvenirs. We were interested in woodwork, so our Evaneos Travel guide suggested we skip most of the vendors at the mountain’s base and took us straight to a carpenter’s workshop.
It turns out, it’s crucial to pay attention to the type of wood when buying souvenirs. Some wood types don’t fare well in cold climates and can crack easily. This isn’t about quality, but more about the natural properties of the wood, and it’s also reflected in the price, with the cheaper woods being less durable. Unfortunately, I learned this a bit late after purchasing a mask at the mountain’s base. My fears were confirmed when I was awakened by a loud crash—the mask had fallen apart.
Luckily, I also bought a few masks from the carpenter, and true to the guide’s advice, those masks still hang intact on my wall, almost mocking my previous purchase. Thanks to Evaneos, our guide shared invaluable insights that went beyond just picking souvenirs, and also saved us money at attractions.
After sorting out our souvenirs, we ventured to a site not often visited by tourists: Pidurangala Rock. This spot truly embodies the phrase “off the beaten track.”
When you reach Pidurangala, it’s worthwhile to stop by Pidurangala Vihara, a Buddhist temple in a cave. Unlike the crowded Sigiriya, which was bustling with tourists battling the heat, Pidurangala offered a peaceful escape. We encountered only a few other tourists on the way up, with one warning us about a snake near the top.
Pidurangala’s summit is lower than Sigiriya’s, but the climb is trickier, with less defined paths. Don’t worry; you won’t lose your way, but you’ll need to navigate some boulders to reach the viewpoint. Be prepared to be just as sweaty as when tackling Sigiriya!
Despite the harder climb, the view at the top is simply stunning, showcasing the beautiful Sri Lankan landscape and offering a magnificent look at Sigiriya. There’s also plenty of space up here to have fun and enjoy the panorama.
Once you see it, you’ll understand why this is considered one of Sri Lanka’s best views. On your way back down, you might be greeted by a crowd of local dogs, but be cautious, as rabies is a concern in Sri Lanka, so it’s best not to play with them.