Sri Lanka · Central Province
Sigiriya and the Cultural Triangle travel guide
A rock fortress, ancient cities and cave temples
The rock fortress of Sigiriya. Photo: Wrobell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Cultural Triangle in the north-central plains holds Sri Lanka's ancient capitals. Sigiriya, a fifth-century palace on top of a 200-metre rock, is the star, with frescoes and lion's-paw steps.
Nearby are the cave temples of Dambulla, the ruins of Polonnaruwa and elephant safaris at Minneriya.
What Sigiriya is known for
- Sigiriya
A palace on a rock.
- Dambulla caves
Painted cave temples.
- Polonnaruwa
A ruined medieval city.
- Elephant gatherings
At Minneriya.
Top things to do in Sigiriya and the Cultural Triangle
Where to stay in Sigiriya and the Cultural Triangle
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Best time to visit Sigiriya and the Cultural Triangle
Best value: Apr, Jul, Sep, Nov. January to April and July to September: mostly dry.
- Best valueGood weather, smaller crowds
- PeakBusiest, highest prices
- QuietCheapest, cooler or wetter
Getting there and around
About 11h from London to CMB, and flights from most UK airports. How long is the flight from your airport?
Hire a driver or use tuk-tuks between sites.
Good to know
- Climb Sigiriya by 7am before it gets hot.
- Remove shoes and hats at temples.
- Bring cash for tuk-tuks and entry fees.
Sigiriya and the Cultural Triangle FAQ
How long is the Sigiriya climb?
About 1,200 steps, 1.5 to 2 hours.
How many days in the Cultural Triangle?
Three days.
More places in Sri Lanka
KandyCity · Central Province
EllaMountains · Uva Province
GalleHistory · Southern Province
MirissaCoast · Southern Province
Yala National ParkNature · Southern Province
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