Two epic hikes, two different experiences. Here’s how Sigiriya and Pidurangala compare once you’re on the trail.
So, Sri Lanka's on the cards? Well, if climbing two of its most iconic peaks, Pidurangala Rock and Sigiriya Rock Fortress, isn't already on your travel bucket list, I’d absolutely love to give you a reason why it should be. Trust us, if you're chasing those epic, golden hour vistas, you won't want to miss these. And the good news? You don't need to be a pro hiker to conquer them.
Let's dive into what you need to know to make the most of both, starting with which one you should tackle first.
Picture this: you're standing in Sri Lanka’s jungle, with the colossal Sigiriya Rock Fortress dominating the horizon. Now, right beside it, there's this incredible vantage point called Pidurangala. While many travellers focus on the famous Sigiriya (Lion Rock), Pidurangala offers a truly unique experience, because of the unparalleled perspective it provides of Sigiriya itself. Accessing this gem won't strain your travel funds. The entry fee is remarkably affordable at around $3–4 AUD (about LKR 1000 – Sri Lankan Rupees), making it a smart choice for travellers on a budget.
The journey to Pidurangala's summit is more of an enjoyable hike initially through green forest and takes around 30–45 minutes. Along the way, you'll discover charming, secluded temples nestled amidst the foliage and even a colossal reclining Buddha statue. From the top, the sprawling jungle stretches out below, and, in its majestic beauty, you’ll see the grandeur of Sigiriya Rock. There’s something about the silence up here that makes the moment even more magical. It’s the kind of place where you can sit for a while, let the world fade away, and just take it all in.
For those aiming to witness the spectacle of sunset from this elevated viewpoint (a highly recommended experience), equipping yourself with a flashlight or using the torch on your phone is essential for the descent. The path can become somewhat challenging under the cloak of twilight. Even if you stay for just an hour or two, Pidurangala will give you one of the most peaceful and rewarding hikes, and it’s one fondly etched in my memory.
The Sigiriya ascent is not for the faint-hearted, with the majority of the climbing taking place on the side of an exposed rockface. Be warned that some pesky monkeys also roam the site and will not hesitate to grab unattended bags or personal items.
Sigiriya Rock is best described as majestic. Once the capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom in the 5th century, it is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In Sinhalese tradition, the lion is known as the ancestor of the kings and, most importantly, a symbol of royal authority.
Access to the final section of the climb is through the lion’s paws, cut into the rockface and up above, it opens to a wonderful panorama, sitting two hundred metres higher than its surroundings. Take your time and enjoy discovering the site and appreciating the beautiful views from the top. You’ll have earned it!
A foreigner ticket is $54 AUD (about LKR 10,900), including entry to the adjoining museum.
What remains firmly pressed in my mind is the evening humidity in Sri Lanka, as I exited the sliding doors at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport for the first time. And boy, did I sweat it up over there. The most favourable time to visit is during the Dry season, between December and March. Even with less rain around, that midday sun can be a real cooker, so the smart move is to tackle those climbs early in the morning or late in the afternoon as the sun starts to fade.
For an unwinding experience in Sigiriya, consider the excellent guesthouses nestled away from the main tourist trails. The hospitality of the family owners is often a highlight, as we experienced with Milton, the owner of Sigiriya Paradise Inn, who even rode his scooter into town so we could enjoy some Lion beers with our dinner. Many of these guesthouses feature open-air dining areas, as was the case for us, offering the chance to observe the local wildlife, perhaps even an elephant or two grazing in the distance. A variety of options can be found on popular online accommodation providers, including Booking.com and Airbnb.
I’m often asked, which hike is better? And here’s the thing: both offer something special, and if you can swing the time, energy, and cash, tackling both is the absolute best.
If time's tight or the budget's a bit lean, Pidurangala is a cracking choice. It's a quicker, more chilled-out climb, and that view of Sigiriya is, in my humble opinion, the best view in Sri Lanka. If you're after fewer crowds and a bit of peace with your panorama, go for this one.
Sigiriya is a little dearer, and its price point is perhaps the main reason why some backpackers and travellers (particularly those on shoestring budgets) leave it off their itinerary. However, if you're a proper history buff and really want to get right amongst it, then climbing Sigiriya is the one. Sure, it costs a bit more, but think of it as getting up close and personal with centuries of stories, and the view from the top? That's a serious bonus.
One thing’s for certain: either climb will leave you with a lasting impression of Sri Lanka's breathtaking landscape.
