Pidurangala Rock - Sigiriya | Sri Lanka

Pidurangala Rock (Sigiriya | Sri Lanka)

 "Nice landmark with view of Sigiriya lion rock"

Source: lonelyplanet

Image Gallery

(Photo credits goes to original authors)

Directions (Google Maps)

Description

Pidurangala is a massive rock formation located a few KM north of Sigiriya in Sri Lanka. It has an interesting history closely related to that of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Being less grand and far more difficult to climb it is often overlooked by tourists.

Like Sigiriya, Pidurangala was formed by volcanic activity. Whilst Pidurangala appears larger than Sigiriya; its upper surface is steeply sloped and is of solid rock. For this reason it was not suitable for large-scale building activity. The rocky outcrops that surround the central rock gives one an indication of what the area around Sigiriya may have looked like prior to its clearing and preparation as a royal citadel.

The Pidurangala area has been occupied on and off for over two thousand five hundred years by monks who lived in the caves around the site. It really came into prominence when King Kasyapa (477- 495 AD), who built Sigiriya, moved monks living around Sigiriya Rock to a newly refurbished and enlarged temple and monastery here at Pidurangala.

Climbing Pidurangala Rock

Climbing Pidurangala Rock

Climbing to the top of Pidurangala Rock is more strenuous than climbing Sigiriya. So be warned and be prepared. If you are fit and adventurous it is a climb worth making. It will take you around two hours. The best times to climb are early morning and late afternoon.

This climb has very steep irregular steps leading to a landing. This first stage is strenuous but doable by reasonably fit people. (If you climbed Sigiriya you can climb this). The second stage of the climb starts at the far end of this landing, past the Reclining Buddha, and should only be attempted by those who are fit and not over-weight. The climb to the summit of Pidurangala Rock is shorter but overall more challenging.

Top of the Pidurangala

The first 20 or so minutes is a steady incline via steps and small rocks. The same minimal fitness levels needed for Lion Rock are needed here. However, be warned that the last 5 minutes require a small amount of rock climbing.

Here the steps turn into large boulders which require both hands and feet to scale. Some strength and confidence is needed but is possible for anyone with a moderate fitness level.

The views at the summit of Pidurangala Rock are equally as stunning as Lion Rock. Again you can view as far as the eye can see, providing the weather allows.

There are no ruined palaces here but the stand out feature of the Pidurangala Rock viewpoints is the uninterrupted panorama of Lion Rock.

Top sights in Pidurangala

Top of the rock
Pidurangala Temple

Things to remember in Pidurangala

Bring water bottle with appropriate clothing for tropical hiking.
   • Clothing - Loose cotton or breathable fabric clothes.
   • Shoes - Good trainers/runners/ sneakers.
   • Hat - Broad brimmed hat to keep the sun away.
   • Sunscreen - Definitely a good idea in the tropic
Be aware of wasp attack
Ticket Cost = (£ 2.5)

Places nearby

Sigiriya Lion Rock

Dambulla Cave Temple (Golden Temple)

Sigiriya Sanctuary

Minneriya National Park (Habarana)

Kaudulla National Park (Habarana)

Kandalama Reservoir

Hotels nearby

Heritance Kandalama Amaya Lake Lake Lodge Boutique Hotel Habarana Lodge Hotel Sigiriya

Kalundewa Retreat Popham's Arboretum Jetwing Lake Amaya Signature Diyabubula, the Barberyn Art & Jungle Hideaway

References:
https://justinpluslauren.com/pidurangala-rock-sri-lanka
https://panique.com.au/sigiriya/pidurangala.html
https://findingbeyond.com/2016/11/02/sigiriya-rock-lion-rock-pidurangala
https://www.yamu.lk/place/pidurangala/review-146635#full