Pidurangala is the rock you climb so that you can look at Sigiriya. It rises about two kilometres north of Lion Rock, and from its summit the great fortress sits directly across the forest, glowing orange at sunrise and sunset. The climb is shorter and cheaper than Sigiriya, usually takes forty minutes to an hour, and carries a more relaxed, hands-on feel, which makes it a favourite with backpackers and photographers. The route begins at a Buddhist temple at the foot of the rock, where the dress code applies and a modest entry charge is collected. A well-worn path climbs through forest to a cave temple with a large reclining Buddha, then continues up steep steps and over boulders. The final stretch is a scramble across big slabs and through a narrow gap that needs both hands, which is the part that surprises people, but the reward is a wide platform with views over the plains, the lakes and Sigiriya itself. A guided climb adds safety and local knowledge. Guides time the ascent to reach the top for the best light, carry torches for the dark approach before dawn, point out the ruins of the ancient monastery that once covered the hillside and help with the tricky final scramble. Some tours add a picnic breakfast or a hot drink at the top, which turns the effort into a small celebration.
What is usually included
A local guide and, depending on the option, hotel pickup by tuk-tuk or jeep, a torch for the pre-dawn climb and sometimes a picnic or refreshments. The temple entry charge at the foot of the rock may be separate. Tours leave in the dark for sunrise or in the afternoon for sunset, and the guide will usually wait at the summit while you take photographs.
What to expect
The first stretch is a series of stone steps and a forest path, easy but humid. The reclining Buddha, one of the largest in the area, lies in a cave beside the trail and is worth a pause. After that the stairs become steeper, and the last section involves clambering over large boulders where a guide's advice on foot placement helps a great deal. At the top you can sit and watch the colour shift on Sigiriya while the forest wakes up or the sun sinks.
Making the most of it
Wear shoes with grip rather than sandals, carry water and a head torch or phone light for sunrise climbs, and cover your shoulders and knees at the temple. The rocks are slippery after rain, and the dry season gives the most reliable views; in the wetter months a sunrise can be misty. The scramble is not suitable for people with a serious fear of heights. A good plan is to do Pidurangala at dawn, rest at your hotel and climb Sigiriya the next morning.
Who it suits
Anyone who likes a short, rewarding hike and a good photograph. It is a particularly good choice if the crowds and the cost of Sigiriya put you off, or as a complement to it, since the two climbs give very different experiences. Allow a little extra time on the way down, because the boulders look quite different in daylight and the descent needs care, especially if you are tired after an early start.
What to expect
The experience
A guided hike up Pidurangala Rock for sunrise or sunset, with views of Sigiriya from the summit platform.
Best time
Sunrise or sunset in the dry season, when the light on Lion Rock is at its best and the rocks are not slippery.
How long
Two to three hours including the climb, time at the top and the descent.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip, bring a torch for pre-dawn starts, carry water and cover shoulders and knees at the temple.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers, hikers and anyone who wants the classic view of Sigiriya from across the valley.
- Families
- Possible for fit older children, but the final boulder scramble is not for young ones.
- Couples
- A sunrise on the summit, with Sigiriya turning gold in front of you, is one of the most memorable moments of the trip.
- Pair with
- A morning at Sigiriya the next day or a village cooking class in the afternoon.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
How hard is the Pidurangala climb?+
It is shorter than Sigiriya but involves steep steps and a boulder scramble at the end. Most fit visitors take forty minutes to an hour to reach the top.
Is there an entry fee?+
The temple at the foot of the rock charges a modest entry fee. Check whether your tour includes it.
Is sunrise or sunset better?+
Both are popular. Sunrise is quieter and cooler, while sunset gives warm light on Sigiriya. Cloud can affect either in the wetter months.
Do I need a torch?+
Yes for sunrise starts, since the first part of the climb is in the dark. A head torch leaves your hands free for the scramble.
What should I wear?+
Shoes with good grip, light clothing and a layer for the cool top. Cover shoulders and knees for the temple at the base.
