Sigiriya

Sigiriya, also known as Sinhagiri, is a historic rock stronghold in Sri Lanka's Central Province. It is located in the northern Matale District, near the town of Dambulla. It is a historically and archaeologically significant site that is dominated by a gigantic 180-meter-high rock column. Sigiriya, like Machu Picchu and Masada, strikes tourists simply by the folly of its creation. It's a massive rock formation that has been sculpted into a palace. The ruins are located near Dambulla, in the country's central region.

The palace complex, which was built around 1,500 years ago, rests on a 660-foot (220-meter) cliff with sheer walls. The antique painted paintings and carvings on the walls transform the entire structure into a work of art. A massive doorway carved in the shape of a lion stands in the middle of one rock wall.

Aside from the palace, the region beneath the palace is a sophisticated city complex with gardens, residential and commercial districts. It's a significant surviving example of early city planning from this time period.

Address: Rock front, Sigiriya 21120, Sri Lanka
Entrance fee:

• Foreigners: $30
• Locals: $0.65 (INR 50)

Best time to visit:
Hours: Mondays- Sundays: 7 am - 5 pm