Pidurangala Rock and Rajamaha Viharaya

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In the Backdrop of Sigiriya on top of Pidurangala

Pidurangala is an impressive rock formation situated approximately a kilometre away from the iconic Sigiriya Rock. Originally serving as an ancient monastery, it has transformed into a renowned tourist hotspot, providing stunning panoramic views of Sigiriya and the surrounding scenery. Pidurangala is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone looking to experience a distinctive vantage point of the Sigiriya region.

Difficulty level of Pidurangala Hike

Pidurangala presents a more demanding climb compared to Sigiriya and is not recommended for individuals with limited physical fitness. The ascent lacks a clearly defined path, with steep and uneven steps leading to a challenging section of boulders and crevices that must be carefully navigated to reach the summit.

The journey begins at a Buddhist temple, where a short walk through its grounds leads to the initial set of steps. Although the climb is relatively brief, it is steep, taking less than 20 minutes to ascend the 199-meter peak. The trail winds through a lush forest and passes ancient Buddhist ruins, marking the point where the hike transitions into more of a climb.

The forested area after the temple require maintaining absolute silence. This is due to the presence of wasp nests in the vicinity, as loud noises can disturb and agitate the wasps.

The first half of the ascent is manageable, but after passing the ancient Reclining Buddha statue, the trail becomes more challenging. Climbers must navigate boulders and stretch to find secure footing among the rocks and trees, as there are no hand railings for support. Despite the effort, the summit rewards visitors with a stunning, unobstructed view of Sigiriya Rock. This panoramic vantage point has made Pidurangala a favorite destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Cost to Access Pidurangala Rock (2025 Update)

Tourists are required to pay an entrance fee of LKR 1,000 per person (approximately USD 3.50). The proceeds contribute to the maintenance of the Pidurangala Rajamaha Viharaya, a temple located at the base of the rock, which visitors are welcome to explore.

Pidurangala Rajamaha Viharaya

Pidurangala served as the royal monastery during the reign of King Kashyapa, who established Sigiriya as his fortified citadel. At the base of the hill lies a ruined dagaba, believed to be the cremation site of King Kashyapa. Carbon dating at the site aligns with the traditional timeline of the king’s demise. Interestingly, the Sigiriya fresco maidens are depicted moving towards the north, seemingly in the direction of the Pidurangala Temple, as if heading to make offerings at the shrine.

Above the modern temple are the old image houses. A flight of steps leads to the summit, where a long cave has a large recumbent image of the Buddha in brick and stucco. Unfortunately, treasure hunters have destroyed most of its head and the chest in search of treasures. These damaged areas have been rebuilt in recent times by the Department of Archaeology. This statue has been dated to the late Anuradhapura period around the 10^th century.

During an excavation in 1952, professor Paranavithana discovered parts of 3 beautifully crafted reliefs caved on hard marble. When Paranavitana began the excavation, the stūpa had already been illicitly excavated by treasure hunters. These three reliefs would have been inside the relic chamber of the stūpa deposited as offerings by pious worshipers during its construction.

Bodhisattvas Previously in the Archaeological Museum, Anurādhapura, now in Sigiriya CCF Museum. H. 29.5 cm W. 22.5 cm. Hard limestone. Bibliography: S. Paranavitana, 1952; U. von Schroeder, 1990, pp. 108-9, no. 19C.

The Buddha performing the Dual Miracle at Śrāvas􀆤 Previously in the Archaeological Museum, Anurādhapura, now in Sigiriya CCF Museum. H.12.8 cm W. 12.2 cm. Hard limestone. Bibliography: S. Paranavitana, 1952; U. von Schroeder, 1990, p. 108, no. 19A.

References

Bopearachchi, O. (2020) Roots of Sri Lankan Art. Colombo: Department of Archaeology.

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Travel Directions to Pidurangala Rajamaha Viharaya

Route from Colombo to Pidurangala Rajamaha Viharaya	Route from Sigiriya to Pidurangala Rajamaha Viharaya
Through : Ambepussa – Kurunegala – Dambulla Distance : 177 km Travel time : 4 hours. Time to Spend : 1.5 hours Driving directions : see on google map	Distance : 2.5 km Travel time : 10 minutes Driving directions : see on google map