Day 4 Sigiriya Lion Rock

Описание: After the village tour, we headed to Sigiriya Rock. I had thought I was climbing the tougher Pidurangala Rock, but when I reached the Lion’s Paw Terrace, I realised I was actually at the base of Sigiriya Lion Rock, the ancient fortress I also wanted to see.

Sigiriya Lion Rock is a 5th‑century UNESCO World Heritage Site, a palace‑fortress built by King Kasyapa. The climb is steep, about 1,200 steps, with metal staircases, railings, and the famous spiral stairs leading to the frescoes.

The gradual ascent took me through beautiful natural features and layers of history. I had hoped to climb all the way to the top, but when I reached the Lion’s Paw Terrace, I paused. Some of the earlier steps had been smooth, narrow, and steep, and I didn’t feel entirely comfortable. So I listened to the little voice inside and decided not to continue. Along the way I saw many monkeys. At one point a boy ran into me from behind, perhaps startled by a monkey, giving me quite a jolt.

The weather was kind; it wasn’t too hot, though I still ended up hot and sweaty from the climb. Descending was tricky in places, especially where there were no grab rails and the steps were narrow and smooth. Sideways stepping felt safest. I made it down safely and found Ranul waiting in the car park. It was an expensive adventure, perhaps because it’s a UNESCO site, and they certainly don’t offer discounts for “overagers”!

On the way to my hotel in Dambulla, we stopped to photograph a young elephant who had just given a ride to a couple. Today I’ve seen bullocks, monkeys, birds, fish, and now an elephant - what a wonderful day.

I arrived at the hotel around 5 pm. Earlier, I had tried to amend my booking from three nights to two via the Booking.com app, but the hotel replied that they couldn’t accommodate the change. My booking wasn’t amendable under Booking’s terms. However, when I mentioned it at check‑in, the manager said it would have been possible had I contacted them directly. He kindly offered me dinner for both nights as a gesture of goodwill - in exchange for a good review, which I happily promised.

So I enjoyed an early dinner of Sri Lankan pork with a little rice, along with a two‑for‑one happy‑hour virgin piña colada. A lovely way to end a full and memorable day.