This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you are better prepared for what to expect, what not to expect and can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Sigiriya. To help you make friends with Sigiriya before you visit, we've included a few helpful and fun things you should know about the area. Enjoy!
Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, is a small town in the Central Matale District in the Central Province. The biggest draw for tourists here is Sigiriya Rock, also known as "Lion Rock." This ancient rock fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic attractions. The rock is featured on most tourist marketing material and is even printed on Sir Lanka’s currency. Tourists can hike up the steep stairs to the top of Sigiriya Rock, and along the way, it’s possible to visit the frescoes painted on the roof of the caves. The hike also takes you past the Mirror Wall and water gardens. At the top of the rock are the terraced gardens, and ancient historic city remains. If the day is clear, the view from the top stretches for miles.
Another popular attraction not far from Sigiriya is the Dambulla Cave Temples. These temples are part of a recently discovered archaeological site, and the largest preserved temples complex in Sri Lanka. In each temple there are painted frescoes and beautiful, maintained statues. There is a fee to visit the temples, but only before 2 p.m. each day.
There is accommodation options in both Dambulla and Sigiriya, however Sigiriya offers many nice accommodation facilities. In Sigiriya, you will be able to find guesthouses, resorts, hostels, and cheap budget hotels. Sigiriya, Sri Lanka hostels are similar to guesthouses, however there are dorm rooms available. Breakfast is almost always included in the price, and includes home cooked roti (Sri Lankan bread), homemade jams, fresh local fruit, tea (sometimes coffee), and eggs. Some Sigiriya, Sri Lanka hostels and guesthouses also include a home-cooked dinner. If your accommodation doesn't offer meals, there are plenty of dining options in the city centre, which includes both local and international food. All accommodation in Sigiriya includes linen, towels, Wi-Fi, optional shuttle or taxi pickup, and hot showers.
Written by local enthusiast for Sigiriya hostels
Kelly Sheldrick
