By Pallavi Verma 
“Sigiriya stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of ancient civilizations, where the natural beauty of the jungle meets the awe-inspiring remnants of a palace in the sky.”
This morning, we woke up early, eager to explore the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 8 km from our stay. We started our journey around 6 a.m., walking through the serene early morning landscape. The walk itself was majestic, with the fresh morning air and the sounds of nature accompanying us.
Our first stop was at a small Buddhist temple along the way. We paused for a few minutes to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and listened to the soft chants echoing through the temple, which added a spiritual touch to our morning. Continuing on, we passed by the Kimbissa police station, where a friendly policeman greeted us. From there, we took a less-trodden path that led us through the jungle. This path, used by the local villagers, was a fascinating detour, offering a glimpse into the lush, untamed wilderness.
As we neared the entrance to the Sigiriya forest, we were greeted by the sight of towering trees and breathtaking views. After purchasing our entry tickets, we came across a beautiful lake adorned with lotus flowers. The scene was truly magical, with the morning sun casting its golden rays on the delicate petals, creating a serene and almost otherworldly atmosphere amidst the surrounding buildings and jungle.
Before starting our tour of the ancient palace, we took a quick break. Upon entering the Sigiriya complex, we were immediately struck by the well-maintained gardens, which were lined with lakes where ducks and swans wandered freely. The intricate irrigation system, which had been designed centuries ago, was still impressive, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of the time.
As we ascended the rock, we noticed markings on the stones, remnants of the tools used by workers who had once climbed these heights to build the fortress. It was a humbling reminder of the strength and determination of the people from that era. The climb was challenging, with strong winds threatening to blow everything away, but it only added to the adventure.
Once we reached the summit, we were rewarded with the awe-inspiring remains of the palace. The layout was remarkable, with clearly defined areas for water storage, living quarters, halls, and discussion spaces. We took our time to explore, discussing the architectural marvels and taking in the panoramic views from the top. The natural beauty combined with human ingenuity made it easy to see why this place is revered.
On our way down, we encountered ancient frescoes painted on the rock walls. These one-of-a-kind paintings, created using natural colors, have stood the test of time and still captivate with their beauty. The entire site is a testament to the creativity and skill of its builders, and it’s no wonder that Sigiriya is recognized as a World Heritage site.
Our visit to Sigiriya was an unforgettable experience, blending natural beauty, historical significance, and architectural brilliance in a way that left us in awe of the ancient world.