Sigiriya Lion Rock, Sri Lanka | Hidden Gems + Tips

| Hidden Gems + Tips. 📍Address: Sigiriya Lion Rock is located in the ancient city of Sigiriya in central Sri Lanka, about 15 km from Dambulla. 🚗Transportation: From Dambulla, you can take a bus from Dambulla Bus Station. Buses run every 30 minutes or so, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. Tickets cost LKR 30 (about USD 0.2), and the last bus is around 7 pm. You can also take a tuk-tuk, which takes about 30 minutes and costs LKR 600–1,200. You can try to bargain. 👍️Must-see attractions: [One] Lion's Paws A stunning landmark you must pass before reaching the top, the giant lion's paw sculpture is a symbol of the palace entrance. After passing through here, you'll reach the steep iron stairs. [Two] Mirror Wall and Murals The Mirror Wall was once covered with a smooth glaze, and after thousands of years of wind and rain, it still reflects light. The ancient graffiti on the wall records the amazement of time, dating back to the 6th century AD. The Sigiriya Damsels murals are colorful half-naked celestial maidens. There are 22 existing murals in a semi-open cave, but this view may require some luck to see, as it is often closed. [Three] Palace Ruins and Reservoir The garden ruins are 200 meters high, and the reservoir is ingeniously designed. During the rainy season, it can form a fountain, and the water has not dried up for thousands of years. Here, you can overlook the greenery of the central plains. [Four] Pidurangala Rock, the best view of Lion Rock: A 20-minute walk from Lion Rock, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lion Rock from the top. Tickets cost LKR 500, and it's a great place to take photos at sunrise and sunset. 🎟️Tickets: USD 30 per person Opening hours: 7 am–5 pm You can hire a local guide at the entrance for about LKR 2,000. You can try to bargain. The tour lasts about 2 hours, but their Chinese is limited. 💗Other tips: It is recommended to climb to the top in the early morning or evening. The iron stairs are very narrow, so hold on to the handrail when it's windy. 🚫Avoid: During the climb, people will come to help you, either pulling or pushing you up the mountain. If you want to refuse, be firm, or they will keep pestering you until you pay LKR 200–400. There are often people at the top who will offer to take photos for you and then demand a tip. Politely refuse or agree on a price in advance. Also, beware of monkeys. Make sure your backpack zippers are locked, as monkeys will snatch snacks, sunglasses, and phones from the railing.