As so many other backpackers, I was wondering about whether to visit the actual Lion’s Rock when in Sigiriya, or the cheaper alternative – Pidurangala. While Pidurangala is much cheaper (500 rupees vs. 4.650 rupees), it’s obviously not „the real deal“ and doesn’t showcase any ruins like Sigiriya does. So I was torn! In the end, I decided to visit both – simply not to miss out on anything.
I first climbed Pidurangala for sunset with Maddie and Leah. And it was quite a climb! Definitely more so than Sigiriya, although if you’re afraid of heights, Pidurangala will be easier and you should definitely skip Lion’s Rock. The top is really nice and flat-ish with lots of space for all the tourists and not too crowded. Immediately after the last tough climb, you suddenly have an absolutely stunning view over the area and Lion’s Rock! We found some nice spots to take pics and chill out for a bit, taking in the amazing landscape while waiting for the sun to set. I had to keep an eye out for the cheeky monkeys though which tried to steal my crackers!
Once the sun was almost down, everyone was starting to rush downwards, not wanting to be stuck at the climb in the dark. Another people jam! But it worked out ok.
Next morning it was time for Lion’s Rock. In order to get ahead of the masses, we stood in line at the ticket counter at 6.50 am and got our tickets quickly after it opened at 7 am. We then hurried up a bit and climbed the rock rather quickly with some photo stops along the way. It’s cool how the staircases are built into/onto the rock but like I said – nothing for people afraid of heights! Also, there’s lots of wasp nests on the rock face and signs are warning of wasp attacks. Luckily we didn’t experience anything like that! Instead we got to the top rather quickly – before us there was only one couple and we had the top to the 4 of us for the next 20 min or so!
Perfect to take some pictures without other people and to enjoy the once again incredible views peacefully before the selfie sticks and shouting Russians arrived. I really liked the ruins at the top as well, although not too much is left of the ancient city. It made the top of the rock more special and different to any other rocky mountain that you might have climbed.
All in all I would recommend the following: If you have time, climb both rocks for different experiences. If you only have time for one, do Lion’s Rock. It is better! Yes it’s expensive, so if you’re on a shoestring, just go for Pidurangala. Although you might kick yourself later in life 😉 After all, going to Sri Lanka and not seeing Lion’s Rock is a bit like going to Peru and not seeing Machu Picchu – may it be as expensive as it is…
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