Sigiriya is the most popular site
where a massive column of rock erects out from the green tropical forest. Tourists
love this gigantic rock which is 660ft tall. Also known as ‘Lion Rock’ it has a
lion carved out as a large façade and an ancient kingdom on top.
The site holds the top position on the list of most visited
places due to the history and few dark facts, which are associated with the
place itself. You can visit this place easily from Kandy. Make sure you book
your tickets in advance and check your SriLanka online visa status to proceed with further reservations. This place
will amaze you with its unbeatable frescos, construction and of course the
ultimate facts that are mentioned below:
1. The
King Kasyapa who ruled from 477 to 495 CE, built the citadel that sits on the
top of Sigiriya. Worried about the potential attacks from his brother
Moggallana who was the rightful heir of the throne, Kasyapa chose this as his
royal residence.
2. The
rock is 200 meters high and encompasses 1200 steps, divided amongst a number of
staircases till the top.
3. Born
to a non-royal concubine, king Kasyapa`s life was full of controversy. Despite
having no right to the throne, he carried a revolt against his father
Dhatusena, imprisoning him and eventually killing him. After killing he got his
father entombed in a wall.
4. The
rock was earlier used as a Buddhist Monastery, prior to Kasyapa`s using it as
his residence. After his reign, it was once again used as a monastery till it
was abandoned in the 14th century.
5. King
Kasyapa created a ‘mirror wall’ so finely polished that it would reflect his
own reflection as he walked by. 140 meters long and 40 meters high, was once
covered with the paintings of women. There are few instances left as well and
can be seen today. The graffiti is of great significance for the historians, as
it represents the development of Sinhala language and script.
6. The
smart, advanced and impressive hydraulic system consists of lakes, canals, bridges,
fountains, dams and underground water pumps still provide water to the site`s
manicured gardens till today.
7. Kasyapa
built a façade on the plateau halfway up in the form of a huge lion with a
staircase emerging out of its mouth. This is why the place is also called ‘Lion
Rock’.
When you have decided to visit the country, do not forget to
witness this great piece of marvel which has so many interesting facts about
it. Now you can apply for ETA visa online and can also check Sri Lanka online visa status on our
website sri-lankaeta.com.
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