Sigiriya, an ancient palace and monastery perched 200 meters above dense jungle on a rocky plateau, stands as Sri Lanka's most iconic national monument. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, nicknamed the 'eighth wonder of the world', features remarkable fortifications, archaic frescoes, fountains, and some of the world's oldest landscaped gardens. It's a fantastic part of the island to explore, and our collection of the best places to stay in Sigiriya offers something for everyone, from chic boutique hotels to budget properties.

Formed by volcanic magma, the site began as a monastery in the 3rd century BCE before becoming a royal palace in the 5th century CE. The plateau is a complex maze of ruined shrines, fortifications, and alleyways adorned with stunning paintings and frescoes. At its entrance stand huge stone-carved claws, remnants of the larger lion statue which gave Sigiriya — the 'lion rock' — its name. Below the fortress lie meticulously designed gardens featuring lilypad-covered moats, mist-shrouded jungle, irrigated ponds, and ancient fountains.

One of the site's most intriguing features is the Mirror Wall, which was once so polished that the king could see his reflection in it. Today, this wall is covered in ancient graffiti, evidence that Sigiriya has been a popular tourist destination for over a millennium, particularly after its abandonment in the 14th century. Other nearby highlights include the Dambulla Cave Temples, and the National Parks of Kaudulla and Minneriya, where herds of elephants gather each year. The best places to stay in Sigiriya offer visitors the perfect base from which to explore this remarkable historical site; a very special part of any trip to the island.

The Best Places to Stay in Sigiriya

For Luxury

• Water Garden Sigiriya seamlessly blends traditional architecture and irrigation techniques with an indulgent resort experience. Surrounded by picturesque paddy fields, intimate private villas boast plunge pools and dazzling views towards Sigiriya rock. An exceptional escape for romantics, with cracking cuisine to enjoy together.
• Jetwing Vil Uyana, made up of luxurious thatched cabanas facing a man-made lake, is wonderfully relaxing. Huge rooms with big windows and private decks are ideal for blissful birdwatching, plus there's a great library, infinity pool and soothing spa.

For Value Chic

• EKHO Sigiriya, once an old-school rest house, has been restored to create a simple, charming hotel with tiled-floored guest rooms set within leafy gardens. Compact yet comfortable, spaces have antique-style furnishings and small terraces. The big draw is the restaurant's excellent traditional cuisine — as well as the rare fact that you're within walking distance of Sigiriya.
• Kumbukgaha Villa, a chic little rural hotel, offers spacious guest rooms and bungalows with views of gardens where peacocks roam. Indoor-outdoor bathrooms are a real treat, there's a refreshing pool and the open-sided restaurant is lovely. A well-priced base for the Cultural Triangle.
• Sigiriya Forest Edge offers airy guest rooms with high ceilings, draped four-posters and polished wooden floors. A games room with billiards and table tennis, plus restaurant and outdoor pool complete the picture at this affordable spot.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR PRIVATE VILLA

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Sigiriya is 3 hours’ drive from Bandaranaike International Airport. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup with a reliable driver who knows the roads well.
• Alternatively, hop aboard the train from Fort Station in Colombo for a scenic journey. Tickets are cheap and trains are slow, but this is a superb way to experience Sri Lanka. Regular local buses are also available.
• Temperatures in Sri Lanka hit their peak in March - April, making for a very sticky exploratory experience, but Sigiriya is a popular year-round destination.
• You’ll need to cover your knees and shoulders when visiting sacred sites, and you will be asked to remove your shoes, so do plan your outfit accordingly!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to explore our list of the best places to stay in Dambulla.
• Alternatively, see our pick of all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.