General Information about Pidurangala Rock
The undisputed highlight of Sigiriya is the Lion’s Rock. You can admire this iconic landmark in several ways. One option is to climb up the rock itself, and the other is to witness a stunning sunrise from the nearby Pidurangala Rock. Both are highly recommended, as the frescoes, museum, climb, and architecture of Lion’s Rock are equally fascinating. However, if you’re on a tight budget, visiting Pidurangala Rock alone might suffice. In this post, we’ll focus exclusively on the Pidurangala Rock experience.
The Ascent to Pidurangala Rock
The ascent to Pidurangala Rock begins from the parking lot, followed by a short walk to the ticket office. The hike itself takes around 45 minutes, rewarding you with a breathtaking view of Lion’s Rock. The trail is rocky but manageable, provided you are reasonably fit.
Top Tips for Visiting Pidurangala Rock
- Watch the sunrise from Pidurangala Rock, then head to Lion Rock and possibly the Dambulla Cave Temple afterward.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as it can get quite warm.
- If you plan to climb at sunrise, a headlamp is essential.
- Since the entrance passes through a temple, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. While exceptions may be made, it’s best to follow the dress code.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the climb.
- If you want to linger after other tourists have left, consider bringing a lightweight sleeping bag.
Solo or with a Guide?
The hike to Pidurangala Rock can easily be done without a guide. If you have mobility issues, a guide could be helpful, but otherwise, just grab a scooter, tuk-tuk, or driver and head out.
Pidurangala at Sunrise or Sunset?
Sunrise is the clear winner for a visit to Pidurangala Rock. The atmosphere is simply magical and perfect for a picnic on the plateau. Keep in mind, though, that you won’t be the only one with this idea. Check the sunrise time and allow enough time for travel and the climb.
Sunrise from Pidurangala Rock
The sunrise view from Pidurangala Rock is truly spectacular. While it’s no longer a secret spot, it’s still beautiful and affordable. The climb takes about 45 minutes and costs just 500 Rupees per person. From the top, you get a fantastic view of Lion Rock. Some visitors are content with just this view and skip the more expensive Lion Rock. However, we think both experiences are worth it, as they offer completely different perspectives. After sunrise, you can head to Lion Rock and climb it for another amazing experience.
Sunrise from Pidurangala Rock View of Lion Rock from Sigiriya
Getting to Pidurangala Rock
The best way to reach Pidurangala Rock is by either hiring a driver or using your own vehicle. We rented a tuk-tuk for our Sri Lanka trip, which made getting there easy. As far as we know, there are no public transportation options directly to the Pidurangala Rock parking lot, so it’s advisable to arrange for transport beforehand.
