Climbing the Ancient Lion Rock Fortress

Did you know on top of this 656 high rock you can roam through the ruins of an ancient fortress?? 👀 Here’s the story: Sigiriya Rock Fortress, known as Lion Rock, was a private fortress built by King Kashyapa, who forced his way to the throne after assassinating his father. Fearing a revenge attack, he carved his royal palace and fortress on the summit of this 200m (656ft) high rock for his own protection. Now an UNESCO World Heritage Site, an adventure to Sri Lanka would be incomplete without climbing the 1200 steps to get to the top of Lion Rock! While in the area, I definitely recommend climbing Pidurangala Rock as well. Its the perfect sunrise spot (you won’t be alone, but once you get up to the top go to the far right, to find a secluded spot all to yourself with an epic view) Everything you need to know about visiting Lion Rock 🦁& Pidurangala Rock (save this for your trip) ⤵️ CLIMBING LION ROCK 🕰️ OPENING HOURS - From 5.00 am to 5.00 pm every day, you can buy tickets at the ticket booth once you arrive 💰 COST - $36 (I know, I was shocked by the price, but I honestly think it was worth it!) 🌅 BEST TIME TO VISIT - sunrise or sunset. We did sunset and loved it 👟 BE PREPARED - The steel staircase built into the rock was terrifying to me (I have a fear of heights haha) but there were so many people going up (including kids 😅) that I somehow felt safe. Wear appropriate shoes, brace yourself and if you have a fear of heights like me - face it! I would also recommend bringing plenty of water CLIMBING PIDURANGALA ROCK 🕰️ OPENING HOURS - From 5.00 am to 5.00 pm 💰 COST - LKR 500 per person ($3 USD) 🌅 BEST TIME TO VISIT - sunrise 👟 BE PREPARED - It’s not a difficult hike, but there are some moments where you are climbing over/through rocks, so wear appropriate shoes and bring water! 👉 Would you climb either (or both) of these rocks? Honestly the steps to climb up Lion Rock freaked me out but I’m so glad I did it! ____