I was warned by friends that the climb was best done early in the morning as the heat would make it much harder later on. I am glad I took their advice. The guidebooks would make you think it was a fairly easy stroll but it is not. It is a climb which should be taken seriously and prepared for. I am fit but even I found it hard work, especially the almost vertical parts! The best part was that I had a guide and he gave me an excellent history of everything from the pools and gardens at the bottom to the rock itself and the fortress on top. He also helped me when some of the climb was a bit hairy! I think the first part up to the Lions Paw Terrace, is the worst. Then, you have the chance to catch your breath and stare vertically upwards at the rest of the rock - and at the lion's paws. It's a great place to take a proper break, drink water - or better still - water mixed with Hydrolite or similar, eat Gummi Bears and reflect on the amazing feat of architecture. It's also a place where you can change your mind and go down if you can't go any further. Going between the paws you realise just how big the lion must have been and then ... it's up, up, up. There are parts where it's almost vertical and I was glad of the queue as it gave me a) time to look at the views and b) take it slowly. When you reach the top the views are simply breathtaking. You can wander all over - there are very few limitations. There was also a light breeze which was very welcome after the climb. Going down has its own hazards but again - take your time. The wall freezes are now covered and you have to go up metal stairs. No photographs as there are few left, thanks to vandalism. Worst aspect? Negotiating your way through the souvenir hustlers, but be firm and keep walking. I was glad I did this - and I certainly felt personal satisfaction afterwards - as well as being very tired and sweaty!!

It was an amazing trip, well planned and informative guide. Visited some beautiful places around Kandy, Badulla, Sigiriya and Galle

If you visit Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is an absolute must-see! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a breathtaking combination of history, architecture, and natural beauty that will leave you in awe. A Journey to the Top ⛰️ Climbing Sigiriya Rock is an unforgettable experience. The 1,200+ steps may sound daunting, but trust me, every step is worth it! As you ascend, you’ll witness: ✔️ The Famous Sigiriya Frescoes 🎨 – Stunning ancient paintings of celestial maidens. ✔️ The Mirror Wall 🪞 – A polished wall with centuries-old graffiti from ancient visitors. ✔️ The Lion’s Paws 🦁 – The entrance to the summit, once part of a massive lion-shaped gateway. The View from the Top 🌄 Reaching the summit feels like stepping into another world. The panoramic views of lush forests, mountains, and ancient ruins are breathtaking—especially at sunrise or sunset! The ruins of King Kashyapa’s palace, ancient pools, and gardens at the top speak of a lost kingdom's grandeur. Best Time to Visit & Tips 🕰️ ✔️ Go early! The best time to climb is before 9 AM to avoid the heat. ✔️ Wear comfortable shoes! The climb can be steep, but it’s manageable. ✔️ Bring water & sunscreen! It can get quite hot at the top. ✔️ Hire a guide! The history and stories behind Sigiriya make the visit even more fascinating. Why You Should Visit 💙 ✔️ One of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks ✔️ A perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure ✔️ Unmatched views & an incredible climbing experience Sigiriya is truly a place where history and nature merge in the most magical way. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for an epic adventure, this ancient fortress will leave you mesmerized! 🌟 Would I visit again? Without a doubt—YES!

It was lovely experience especially if you go eatly morning or later to catch sunset. P.S. though not worth of 35$ per person, why would you charge so much for wonder of nature, and no guide is included (you can grab one once you start climbing and pay to him what you negotiate) - it would be more logical to include guide in that price. Also, whoever is going for sunset experience make sure to see the paintings by 5.30 pm because they close that part of the rock later, nobody informed us of that earlier.

What an experience and to be honest I nearly bailed at the last staging area before the metal staircase to the summit leaving my partner and the guide to go the last bit. But after a rest I thought that having got up at 4am to watch the sunrise I should ignore my protesting knees and just force myself! Boy was it worth it. We watched the sun rising over the countryside and could see for miles. It was an incredible experience and I am really glad I pushed myself to do it. The site on top is really interesting and an important part of Sri Lankan history. If you come to this country you must do this trip.

It's an amazing place you must visit. If you want to visit better, avoid 10 am to 2 pm. Early morning is the best to see sun rise and after 4pm is the best for sun set. Highly recommended for all.

Amazing view. We did the sunrise there and was unforgettable. Lots of stairs but with same space to go on your own rhythm. We saw people with broken legs arriving on the top and 70+ to. It could be for everyone who really to be mesmerized by the incredible view.

I do a lot of hire tours with many foreigners. It's a lot for everyone. It's a valuable experience. I try hard to give it...

Expensive tickets, so not a trip you want to chicken out before you start. Stone steps, then stainless steel open grid stairs. Then more of them. 1200 plus, with no real rest stops because of the constant trail of people. If you’re fit, you want to avoid the crowds. If you’re unfit, you want to avoid the heat. Definitely get started climbing before 0830, because coach parties start arriving from 0900. The site is impressive from a historical angle. The engineering from when it was first made is clear and obvious, and very impressive. The restoration and maintenance of the access in modern times is also impressive. That access walkway is definitely NOT going anywhere. The mural artwork in the overhang areas is very interesting, given its age. Having a guide was extremely helpful to understand the story.

I recently had the opportunity to visit Sigiriya's Lion Rock, and it was an unforgettable experience. The climb, though challenging with its approximately 1,200 steps, was well worth the effort. Starting early in the morning helped avoid the heat and crowds, making the ascent more comfortable. The panoramic views from the summit were breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of Sri Lanka's lush landscapes

This was an experience you shouldn’t miss when in Sri Lanka. We were a little nervous after reading reviews about the climb and how hard it was…well it really isn’t. We are 54 and 64 and fairly fit but we’ve experienced a lot worse throughout Asia. Plus we got to the top at midday, because we valued a lie in rather than another early start…The steps are all even and with hand rails in most cases, good areas to rest at different levels. It wasn’t crowded as I expected it be and felt very safe. Tickets were easy to buy and no queues. Walking through the gardens and lily ponds approaching the rock is very beautiful. My husband was a little put out when a 70+yr old local said he needed to help him up to the top…obviously for a tip…A great few hours.

Sigiriya: The Majestic Lion Rock of Sri Lanka 🏰🌿✨ Rising dramatically from the lush jungles of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya stands as a breathtaking testament to ancient ingenuity and artistry. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World," boasts mesmerizing frescoes, intricate gardens, and the iconic Lion’s Paws that guard its summit. From the top, sweeping panoramic views stretch across emerald landscapes, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of kings and legends. A journey to Sigiriya is more than a climb—it’s a step into history, mystery, and unparalleled beauty. 🌄🦁💛 #Sigiriya #SriLanka #Travel #WonderOfTheWorld #AncientMarvel

Absolutely amazing experience! Me and my elderly mother (63) were so nervous but excited. Wasn’t too bad at all. So glad we did it. The stops on the way were great. The steps were not that bad. Views were so beautiful. We are so glad we did it - would highly recommend and definitely visit again! A definite must if in the area. Felt so safe too.

A must visit!! We started our walk up just as the sun was rising which was perfect as we missed the midday heat and the crowds, which I imagine may be a bit intense. This place is unlike anything I've seen before and an incredible feat.

It’s 1202 -1270 steps to the top and if you can physically do go go go! However, start early in the morning since it’s cooler and you can beat the crowds. Climb the structure first the visit the grounds is my recommendation. It’s worth the experience and exhaustion depending on your physical shape. Travel lite, bring water, wear sunscreen and enjoy. There are also guys who will help you get to the top if you need a helping hand. It’s an incredible experience and if you have the opportunity watch the VR available at some hotels. Which heightens the experience.