Sigiriya, the  ‘Lion rock’ fortress, is situated in central of Sri Lanka, and is one of country’s major attractions.

The rock stands over 200m tall and there are 1200 steps carved into the rock face, some easy and some not so easy, which takes us right to the top.

Sigiriya fortress was built by King Kasyapa, a son of King Dhatusena, by in AD 477.  The major concern behind this building was security from invasion of brother Mugalan.  It is also declared by UNESCO as the 8th Wonder of the World.

Sigriya is popular for its frescoes of heavenly maidens. These frescoes have survived thousands of years and are still in amazing condition, mainly due to the natural pigments used by the artists.

After the king’s death, it was used as a Buddhist monastery until 14th century.