Location

A fifth century rock citadel rising out of the surrounding jungle, with frescoes, water gardens and a viewing platform at the summit. One of the most visited sites in the country and the reason most guests are in this area at all.

Five caves cut into a granite outcrop, painted and filled with Buddha statues over more than two thousand years of continuous use. Quieter than Sigiriya and usually done as a half day alongside it.

The climb faces Sigiriya rather than sitting on it, which is why the view from the top looks back at the fortress rather than out from it. Popular before sunrise, and the scramble near the summit needs reasonable footwear.

An ancient reservoir where wild elephants gather in large numbers during the dry season. Safaris run by jeep and are best booked the afternoon before, through reception.