Pidurangala Rock image

Pidurangala Rock

Tourist attraction Historical landmark Observation deck

One of the Best Places To Visits in Ehalagala


Address

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Website

sigiriyafortress.com

Contact

+94 77 544 6135

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (7.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours
  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: climb (40) view (36) temple (31) rock (27) sunrise (27) Sigiriya (24) hike (19) minutes (13) Pidurangala (13) sunset (13)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Christiaan W. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing view from the top! We climbed in the dark, which is a (fun) challenge, even with a good torch as we had. Just take your time and don't rush it: we did it in about 20-30 minutes. It's definitely worth the climb, even tough we didn't see the sun rise because of clouds, it was an amazing experience. As we understood, only at the beginning you have to cover your knees and shoulders, because of the temple close to the entrance. Ps: entrance fee was 500.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laura C. 1 month ago on Google • 127 reviews New
    We highly recommend climbing this mountain, which offers an even more beautiful panorama of Sigirya. Of course, keep in mind that the second part of the route is a bit difficult, climbing without ladders, rather like climbing mountains over rocks. But the view on the mountain is breathtaking. All trip took us about 40 minutes.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amal W. 5 months ago on Google
    Pidurangala is an ancient Buddhist cave temple that has a trail up the mountain to the top. It is about 45 minutes for the climb. The trail starts through the temple so be mindful of your attire. You also need to take off headwear and footwear while going through the temple grounds. The trail has stairs and steps for most of the way. The last leg is pretty steep and you have to climb through boulders and rock faces to reach the top. The view atop the mountain is breathtaking! You get a 360 degree view. Be really mindful if you are attempting the climb with children as the trail does not have lot of safeguards. Best time to visit is the morning. Trail is open at 5:00am so that you can view the sunrise from the top. No charges for locals but I thought I saw tickets being issued for foreigners. You do need to pay for parking.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tamás P. 1 month ago on Google • 148 reviews New
    Must visit. The first part of the hike is kinda easy, just stairs. But the second part is could be hard if you’re not fit enough. You have to climb and go through narrow holes between rocks. However the view is amazing.

  • 5/5 Lahiru G. 1 month ago on Google • 72 reviews New
    Rock with a breathtaking 360 view. Takes around 45 minutes to reach the summit. Few sections seem to be difficult but can manage. Climb early in the morning to witness the sunrise. If not, ascend in the evening. Less crowd early in the morning.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nuwan P. 1 month ago on Google • 118 reviews New
    Somewhat tricky to climb (especially the last bit) but when you get up there, it's one of the most picturesque scenes you can have in Sri Lanka. Local tourists walk free of charge but foreign tourists have to pay at the entrance. It is an approximately 30-minute climb if you are an average person. Suggested times to visit are the sunrise & sunset.

  • 5/5 Dinesh C. 1 month ago on Google • 103 reviews New
    Pidurangala Rock, Sigiriya's lesser-known sibling, offers a rewarding challenge and panoramic vistas that rival its famous neighbor. With a moderately strenuous climb (think uneven steps and some scrambling), it's suitable for most fitness levels, but good shoes and water are essential. The initial ascent through the temple grounds is peaceful, passing ancient ruins and colorful murals. Higher up, prepare for stunning views of the surrounding plains and, of course, the iconic Lion Rock. Monkeys might accompany you on your journey, adding a touch of wildlife to the adventure. Reaching the summit unveils the true reward: breathtaking 360° panoramas. Sigiriya appears even more majestic from this vantage point, and the vastness of the Sri Lankan landscape stretches before you. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly magical, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Remember, be mindful of your belongings as monkeys are known to be mischievous. Also, respect the temple etiquette and dress modestly. Overall, Pidurangala Rock is a must-visit for those seeking adventure, breathtaking views, and a different perspective on Sigiriya's wonders.

  • 5/5 Himantha A. 3 years ago on Google
    Pidurangala is an ancient Buddhist temple situated close to Sigiriya. Though the temple is there, the main attraction is the Pidurangala rock, which could be climbed up using the trail that starts from the temple. There is ample parking space outside the temple. It will take close to about half an hour to reach the summit. You will see one of the best views of Sigiriya from the Pidurangala rock. Best time to visit is either early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun sets.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Athina P. 5 months ago on Google
    Pindurangala is indeed a breathtaking and awe-inspiring sightseeing destination. The hike to reach it is nothing short of exceptional, offering an experience that words alone cannot do justice to. The sheer beauty of the natural surroundings leaves you speechless, and it's a place where nature's grandeur truly shines
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris R. 4 months ago on Google
    Did this hike a few days just before sunset and loved it! The hike ip does take around 30-40 minutes if you're in decent shape and I do recommend to bring a head lamp with you to be able to make it back down once the sun sets! I read somewhere that water bottles were not allowed, but to be honest when we arrived no one said anything and I'm so happy that I took one because I definitely needed it! The hike is not "easy" and definitely not doable for everyone especially the last 10 minutes where you have to climb up boulders, but for those healthy enough I recommend this hike! You will not regret it!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Harsha 2 years ago on Google
    One of the beautiful place to see panoramic view of Sigiriya area as well as see the sunset and sunrise. 40 min climb from the start point to come to the top. Need to be careful when you are climbing because some areas are bit slippery. There are plenty of space for parking at the entrance. You have to be enter to the pidurangala temple first get into the trail starting point
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Madavi G. 6 months ago on Google
    Embarking on a morning hike with friends to a rock temple led to an adventurous challenge. My friends' assistance, pushing and guiding me through tough spots, mirrored true camaraderie. Crawling, sitting, and unconventional maneuvers added a touch of vulnerability. Yet, the view from the peak was an exquisite reward, justifying the unconventional journey. The mix of accomplishment and natural beauty made the experience truly worthwhile, a testament to both friendship and nature's allure.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brandy P. 11 months ago on Google
    So my husband and I climbed both Pidurangula (sunrise) and Sigiriya (sunset) and we’re so pleased by the first experience. It was a little bit challenging (we’re up for the challenge) to climb at the end but totally worth it. The view was awesome! I believe we paid around 600 LKR per person, but still much cheaper than Lion’s rock. It was also really cool to see Lion’s rock from the different angle. Be sure to wear longer pants and respectful clothing as there is a part where you walk through a shrine. Don’t skip seeing the Buddha statue in the shrine! 10/10 would recommend if you’ve got the time and want a nice view.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dinisha K. 1 year ago on Google
    Most beautiful place to see panoramic view of Sigiriya - The Lion rock and surrounded by amazing nature. Time taken 30-40 min climb from the start point to the top. Last few steps are little bit scary. Not recommended for aged and unexperince hikers.But the view is amazing and breathtaking on the top..
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Suran C. 2 years ago on Google
    If you want to see the beauty of Sigiriya, I highly recommend you to climb Pidurangala. The temple, the Samadhi statue and the surroundings seem to be unified as if they were not created by humans. Come back without polluting that beautiful environment. If you climb that mountain on a rainy day, wear shoes with a good grip. At the end of the stairs, you have to walk carefully on slippery rocks.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Udara S. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful and exiting places I've visited so far. You can enjoy full 360 view with an epic view of the Sigiriya rock fortress We climes in the morning, wanted to get there to see the sunrise,
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Elise T. 1 month ago on Google • 40 reviews New
    Get there 45 mins before sunrise. Hike takes 30 mins but at the end there’s a little queue due to some rock climbing. It’s not difficult but be aware you need both hands available so no handbags! A beautiful sunrise view of Sigiriya. Costs LKR 1000 to get in and you enter through a temple so please dress modestly. Be aware there are lots of monkeys so if you bring food make sure it’s wrapped and tucked away.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sonali S. 2 months ago on Google • 66 reviews New
    More fun to climb than Lion Rock; clambering over rocks and using the rope for one of the boulders. Excellent place to watch the sunset and sunrise with its panoramic views including of Lion Rock. It's so peaceful. Would definitely climb again if in the area.

  • 5/5 Daniel C. 2 months ago on Google • 17 reviews New
    We went for the sunrise and what an amazing experience. Topped off with the monkeys! Worth going up early, as even at this time there is a bottle neck at the top and we had to wait 5-10 minutes for people to get through.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris L. 6 months ago on Google
    Beautiful sight and definitely worth to go! Very cheap entrance compared to Sigiriya and I think the hike is fairly good. Really nice for sunrise especially! We got here just before sunrise and it took us round about 20min to get up. There were a few people to be fair but it still feels like it’s not too crowded. Honestly felt a bit surreal being up there. Noteworthy: Since the there is a temple at the bottom that you hav to pass right after the entrance, I would recommend to bring something to cover knees and shoulders. If not they sell it there as well.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ash P. 4 months ago on Google
    To catch the sunrise, we woke up early in the morning to start the walk up at 0500 from the temple. Tickets cost 1000 LKR per person. The climb, in darkness, is manageable as the majority is stepped. Once you get to the reclining cave Buddha, the path is less defined and requires effort clambouring over rocks and boulders. But its manageable for all age ranges. I would advise bringing a head torch for ease and hiking boots. However, many people walked up in trainers and used their phones for light. Once at the top, you are treated to a spectacular sunrise and views over Lions rock. The fog rolling in and golden light gracing the landscape. A lovely place to take in the sunrise and meditate - albeit with the odd annoying drone user!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zoe W. 3 months ago on Google New
    Great place for a good view over Sigiriya! ⛰️ Walk through the temple ground, remember to cover up, and then find the stairs to start the climb up the mountain. Along the way you can see some very old temple sites. Remember to wear good shoes, there’s some climbing part. Would recommend this little hike! Price: 1.000 LKR (about 3€ or $)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chanuka A. 11 months ago on Google
    A worthy hike and the best time to climb up is around 5pm to catch the sunset. Even though it's a small climb, it gets harder the more you go. You can't miss the route to the top since it has been marked with arrows.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Em (. 9 months ago on Google
    Epic views! And worth the little hike. It took us about 25-30mins to reach the top from the bottom and we’re not pro hikers or athletes. The climb was well tracked for the majority and best done in trainers or fastened sandals. Would not recommend bare foot or flip flop/loose open shoes as the end segment/ last 10minutes requires some clambering over and inbetween rocks to reach the top. It feels safe nearly all the way just take your time and go slow for the last little bit getting up onto the top of the rock. Once you’re up there it’s a huge area and panoramic views. Some people do sunrise and can imagine it would be epic, just a little risky in the dark with the last climb up. Saying that, you do not need any equipment for the climb just recommend going with someone else :) We went for sunset and it was quite busy at the top but the area is spacious and seemed like there was a view of sunset for everyone. Once the sun sets it gets dark quickly so would recommend heading down at a reasonable time as the path is not well lit. A must-do if you’re visiting the area. There are quite a lot of tuktuks waiting at the bottom to help with pick up but we asked in advance for quotes and waiting time to be safe. Tickets are fare priced and are bought on arrival. No need to pre book. Best if you have smaller notes, they appreciated that :) Enjoy!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chamile W. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful and exiting places I’ve visited so far. You can enjoy full 360 view with an epic view of the Sigiriya rock fortress We climes in the morning, wanted to get there to see the sunrise, sadly got a bit late and missed it. Suggest to there as early as possible to avoid the crowd if planning to go in the morning hours. It was only us on the top on that day. Climbing gets a bit hard closer to the top, you need to creep through few rocks to get to the top. We climbed with two kids 7&9 with no issue.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Михаил �. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful view to Sigiriya, second part of climbing little bit difficult for unprepared hikers. Approximate time of climb is 30 minutes. A lot of monkeys that want to catch your belongings, be careful
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ULIDU T. 2 years ago on Google
    Rock Hiking in Pidurangala, in native speak a stone throw away not more than 2km, is more of a natural atmosphere. A popular spot for sunrise and 360-degree views of the valleys and the neighboring Sigiriya Rock.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sachindra A. 2 years ago on Google
    What an amazing view from the top. experienced the best sunset in my life. Not a difficult climb. rocky steps 75% of the way. bit of rock climbing in the end to summit the rock. Next time it will be for sunrise....
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mike A. 1 year ago on Google
    The hike up there us Not very hard and the view from there especially the sunset is amazing and everyone that goes to sigiriya should go and see the sunset from this viewpoint. there is a point at the end where it becomes a little bit hard for the younger and unexperienced hikers but other than that the whole walk is mainly stairs with a nice stop for a sleeping Buddha statue along the way
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Oleksandr R. 2 years ago on Google
    Worthy alternative to Sigiriya rock, entrance 2.5$ vs 30$ for Sigiriya, it takes 20 minutes to climb, bear in mind that to climb the last part you need to use arms, you’ll see stunning view on Sigiriya though.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hiran R. 2 years ago on Google
    A exciting hike to the top of the Pifurangala rock. The entrance goes through the temple at the bottom, so need to wear appropriate clothing if one is going there. The climb is though and under some rocks. The view at the top is magnificent!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J D. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful view from top of the Pidurangala rock. Best time to visit in the morning for sunrise. Locals entrance free/ for foreigners 500/- per person. You must wear something which will cover your knees and shoulders until you past the temple.

  • 5/5 Tina B. 8 months ago on Google
    The sunrise view from Lion rock was stunning. Really worth to do it to get a closer look of the rock. The site opens around 4:30. They are lights in the path and very well maintain rock steps. It took us 20 minutes to go up with 3-4 stops to catch our breath. Don’t get scared of the last part, it basically 5-6 big rocks that you need to go up on it, nothing scary. It would however help for small people that they put a few handles in the rock like elsewhere in the world. At the bottom you enter directly in the temple, so you need to either bring cover up items (no short and no cami are accepted ) or borrow a scarf for them which probably cost something. They let my boyfriend enter with shorts.

  • 5/5 Gideon 2 years ago on Google
    Nice climb for a great view and a good price. The last part can be tricky for those with fear of hights

  • 5/5 sivanesan k. 2 years ago on Google
    Very Beautiful place 🙏

  • 5/5 Tharindu R. 2 years ago on Google
    Pidurangala is an ancient Buddhist temple situated close to Sigiriya. Main attraction is the Pidurangala rock. Since we are entering through a Buddhist temple area shoulders & knees should be covered till you're passing the temple.

  • 5/5 amyzior 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful view! Sunrise was amazing here, only a short walk up to the top but definitely can be hard in the heat. Take a torch if you're going for sunrise or sunset.

  • 5/5 Lars 3 months ago on Google New
    Wonderful place, with just a few tourists. If you are in the area, you need to climb this rock. Great view on Lions Rock Some light climbing will be required, but it’s with it.

  • 5/5 Veronika P. 3 months ago on Google New
    The views are just great! The last part of the hike was a bit challenging but fun. There was an elder man who made it to the top with a hand of other visitors, so it's definitely doable for most people. Also, there were plenty of people with little kids. Just wear proper shoes and be ready for a little bouldering.

  • 5/5 Roffi 2 years ago on Google
    Easy climb to the top of the rock, with tall stairs and soil tracks shoes are required for foreigners. Definitely get there when it opens at 5am to see the sunrise over the jungle.

  • 5/5 Golf G. 6 months ago on Google
    Beautiful hill to hike. The path is not paved but the view at the top is simply fantastic. Advisable not carry haversack as a few points are pretty narrow, a walking stick may help.

  • 5/5 Linda Francisca R. 4 months ago on Google
    Perfect to see a foggy Sigiriya in the early morningy which is really beautiful. It's a little challenging in the end to climb to the top but we saw a (lovely) 80 yr old woman and parents with little children on the back managing the climb so (with a little help) you can manage it too. The view is rewarding. There are some dogs like nearly everywhere in Sri Lanka but they are friendly. We paid 2.000 LKR per person.

  • 5/5 Sight Seeing L. 2 years ago on Google
    It's beautiful rock. Easy hike You must wear somthing which is cover your knees and shoulders untill you past the temple. You can enjoy the 360 view. ❤️👌 No tickets to entry.

  • 5/5 Maria N. 1 year ago on Google
    A beautiful place! Depending on your speed and the heat of the day, you need between 30 minutes and an hour to go up. At the end you have to climb a little so take good shoes, sunscreen and enough water. The way up is shady but at the top you will need a hat for the sun.

  • 5/5 Ashan L. 2 years ago on Google
    Pidurangala is a massive rock formation located a few kilometers north of Sigiriya in Sri Lanka. It has an interesting history closely related to that of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climbing to the top of Pidurangala Rock is more strenuous than climbing Sigiriya. If you are fit and adventurous it is a climb worth making. It will take you about two hours. There is far less to see on this site than Sigiriya

  • 5/5 Janardhan Hanumantha R. 8 months ago on Google
    Must go place if you are in Sri Lanka. The sunrise viewed from here is fabulous. Will be dark at a few spots not covered by lighting when you begin climbing for a sunrise, so carry a torch or mobile phone with a torch. Take a small bottle of drinking water as the climb can be tiring. Takes 30-45 minutes to climb and the boulders at the end of the climb are a little challenging. Don't carry anything too heavy. Hire a guide at the ticket counter if you are not confident of your climbing skills or fitness levels. There is a temple on the way up, so make sure you cover your shoulders and knees when passing the place. No photographs allowed at this temple, typically.

  • 5/5 Kosala W. 9 months ago on Google
    Nice view point. Before you go to this place you must know these facts. Place should be reached through a Buddhist temple. So the religious police in the temple does not allow ladies to go near temple without covering shoulder and no one is allowed to wear shoes. After passing the temple area you can remove the shoulder covering and wear shoes. If you wish to go to the top of the rock you should not go with infants and very small kids since there is one place is very difficult to climb. The road is clear up to the Buddha statue.

  • 5/5 Disharatnam V. 1 year ago on Google
    It was beautiful place to see the Sigiriya view.. you have to climb from Temple area. If you are visiting try to visit for Sunset or sunrise. They have put lights along the way which was good Initiative which help climbers to reach easily and carefully. Also do not pollute the place with plastic

  • 5/5 Ashfan N. 10 months ago on Google
    What a view there. Really enjoyed the trip.. the path for the hike is very thrilling… not too much distance to the top.. which doesn’t mean its that easy… You sure will enjoy the hike..

  • 5/5 Stefan W. 9 months ago on Google
    Amazing views. Definitely worth it! Plan for sunrise or sunset hike of ~30min. See monkeys and an ancient buddha statue on the handcrafted stone stair the way up. Take the rubbish some mindless individuals are throwing away with you on the way down.


Call +94 77 544 6135 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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