Hey there, travel buddies! If you are planning to visit Sri Lanka, then get ready to include one more place in your list of must visit place and that is Pidurangala Rock. I assure you this place is a gem that you should not give a miss.
Allow me to break down the reasons as to why Pidurangala Rock is a must-visit. Picture a huge rock structure over the ancient city of Sigiriya, imagine the size of this rock formation. Yeah, it is fairly epic, isn’t it? But the most exciting thing is that you are permitted to ascend to the top and get some of the finest views you have ever seen.
Well, I understand what you are probably thinking right now, “Is that not very complicated?” Let me ease your mind, though. Climbing to the Pidurangala Rock is not a problem at all even for those who do not have a athletic background. The path is clear and there is enough space for a rest at any moment.
However, the best part of the ordeal is when you get to the top. Up there you get to see one of the most beautiful sceneries, the Sigiriya Rock or the Lion Rock as it is commonly referred to as together with other rocks and trees as far as the eye can see. That is like something straight out of a movie it is crazy!
We did the sunrise hike and allow me to tell you, waking up to the sight of the sky being illuminated over the trees is a sight to behold. Everything was somewhat pink and orange, and the whole area seemed very quiet – or at least as quiet as it could be with those monkeys jumping from branch to branch! Little ones seemed to be all around; it was quite a sight to see.
And if that’s not enough to convince you, here’s another reason why Pidurangala Rock is a must-visit: the vista of the rising and setting of the sun. Honestly, the colors that are painted on the sky are just out of this world, I mean just unbelievable. It is the ideal place to observe the start or end of a day the true Sri Lankan way.
By the way, the entrance fee is very low, have I mentioned that? Yes, for a few dollars you will be able to witness one of the most beautiful natural sights in Sri Lanka.
Thus, if you are planning your trip to Sri Lanka and seek for an unconventional activity that would include beautiful views, a short hike and plenty of great photos – Pidurangala Rock is a perfect choice for you. Believe me, you will not regret it.
How to get to Pidurangala Rock
Pidurangala Rock is situated in the district of Matale in the Central Province of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Here’s how you can get there:
By Tuk Tuk: This is the most common and efficient method of the three. One can easily flag a tuk-tuk in Sigiriya town and bargain a fare to take one to the foot of Pidurangala Rock. The approximate charge would be around USD 2.
By Scooter: In case, you are self-assured about riding a scooter you can easily hire one in Sigiriya and drive to Pidurangala Rock. The ride itself lasts about 10 minutes. However, do not forget that the road is still used by cars and buses and there are wild elephants around; especially at the break of dawn!
By Bicycle: Cycling is another way that is preferred if you are within the Pidurangala Rock area. However, the roads can be dusty and sometimes there are some inclines on the road which one has to climb.
Quick Facts About Pidurangala Rock for Hikers
- Approximately 30 to 40 minutes of walking.
- 500 LKR entrance fee
- You MUST wear a sleeved shirt, knee-length shorts or pants and no shoes at the temple at the start of the trail.
- Sometimes cover-ups are allowed but it is better to bring your own for the busy times and this is what happened to us:
- Recommended to be taken in the morning around sunrise and in the evening around sunset
- The entrance of Pidurangala Rock is from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm however one can stay on the rock after dark.
- There are some snakes around so one should be on the lookout
- Medium difficulty hike
- No plastic (bottles, bags etc. ) allowed.
- There are no toilets at Pidrangala Rock or on the way to it.
Hotels near Pidurangala Rock
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