Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Archaeological Sites & Ruins

Sigiriya

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST RUINS & SITES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 32 2026
Sigiriya

A 5th-century rock fortress and palace complex rising about 200 metres above the plains of central Sri Lanka. Visitors pass water gardens, the Lion's Paws and frescoes on the climb to ruins and a wide jungle view at the summit.

Highlights

  • Lion's Paws
  • Sigiriya frescoes
  • Water gardens

Good to know

  • Tickets sold at the museum near the entrance
  • Foreign entry fee about 35 USD, lower for SAARC
  • About 1200 steps, 30 to 40 minutes up

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