Pidurangala.

Pidurangala is the smaller, less well known neighbour of the tourist draw that is Sigiriya. Its steep slopes, chaotic boulders and verdant jungle make it much more of an interesting challenge than the structured fortress beside it. However, it is also the home of an ancient rock temple, nearer to the top is a site of a larger reclining Buddha statue, old walls and an ancient inscription. So your cultural needs are satisfied.

What's more interesting about it is the meandering adventure of the way up, yes there is the formation of a clear path upwards and old stone steps, but they are broken down and blended with the natural structures around them. there are many nooks and boulders to explore, you’re tempted to intrepidly forge your own way to the top. The last stretch to the top becomes more of a literal rock climb where some nimbleness and agility are required – just enough to make it really fun without being overly challenging.

There’s something unexpected about this rock, you can’t really imagine its summit until you are faced with that final moment of hauling yourself up and being blown away by the unpredictably fantastic sights before you. The top surface of Pidurangala is large rolling field of stone, beyond which the fields and mountains spread out in a crazy perfect circle. It’s huge and undulating, different smooth levels, a rolling landscape to be blown about and from every side thudded with stunning scenery.

We reached the top in the sunset hour. When you’re at that elevation, the land and the sky in equal measure before you, the sunset ceases to be simply a confined moment of our star sinking below the horizon. Instead it becomes an evolving pulsating spectacle. That first, very present rose-gold bathing of light, the changing pink and purple clouds, the sinkdown of the rapidly defined red orb.

It was so funny how as soon as the sun sank below the horizon, every person on that rock in herd-like fashion got up and made their way down. We stayed up and enjoyed a way more intense play of colours, but had to suffer, the loners that we are, on the way down in total darkness, nearly getting lost amongst the jungle.  

It used to be a uniform Rs. 300 for everyone who visited, but Sri Lanka fights tooth and nail to milk the tourist industry and now it’s free for locals (yay) and a generous donation of Rs. 500 for foreigners.

I don’t really know why it’s still quite unknown, probably simply forgotten, but strangely its not the kind of place I want to preserve in obscurity (hence this article). Despite the number of people that were there it didn’t seem like you were being invaded by humans, it was just really clear that everyone there was enjoying and experiencing the rock and the views in their own individual way, regardless of who else was there. Pidurangala gives you the space to do that.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

Iftar delights at The Banyan, Heritance Negombo

Iftar delights at The Banyan, Heritance Negombo Written by Fathima Rukaiya, Mad Dogs Bodega, Banyan

Highlights Kamu

Budget-friendly Iftar spots 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya, In our previous article, we highlighted some exquisite and upscale Iftar

Highlights Kamu

Iftar Buffet Round Up 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya As Ramadan arrives, a warm feeling of reflection and community fills

Highlights Kamu

Discovering Pasta Paradise: The Pasta Factory, Galle Fort

In the historic Galle Fort, The Pasta Factory brings a taste of Italy to Sri

Highlights Kamu

A Home for Desi Dreams – Bombay Nights by Radisson Colombo

As we stepped into the ‘Dine’ in Radisson Colombo, our senses were immediately tantalized by

Highlights Kamu

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

Trending.

Experience the Elegance and Excitement of RTC Tourism Race Day in Nuwara Eliya

RTC Nuwara Eliya will hold its RTC Tourism Race Day on 30th March 2024 at

Trending

“85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim” by SLASU held at the Mount Lavinia Hotel Beach

The "85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim" organized by Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union

Trending

Sheraton Colombo Hotel celebrates International Women’s Day with empowering insights

Sheraton Colombo Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, marked International

Trending

Anantara Kalutara Presents an Elevated Gastronomic Journey to Italy

Kalutara, Sri Lanka - March 14, 2024 - Anantara Kalutara Resort is delighted to announce

Trending

List of Party Venues 2024

By Fathima Rukaiya Finding the perfect place to host a party can be a hassle.

Highlights Trending

LCY Unveils Debut ‘LCY for Her’ Collection, Redefining Women’s Polo Wear with Strength, and Sophistication

Thursday, 14, March, 2024, Colombo: LCY, a brand synonymous with manufacturing high-quality men’s polos of

Trending

Yamu Guide.

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Him

By Fathima Rukaiya Are you trying to find the perfect way to show your special

Highlights Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her

Written by Fathima Rukaiya The season of love is upon us once more, and opinions

Highlights Yamu Guide

Romantic Dinner and High Tea date spots for Valentine’s Day  2024

Written by Shamrina C 1. Via Torino Indulge in a fine dining exclusive 3-Course meal

Highlights Yamu Guide

BYOB Bliss: 16 Places to you can Bring Your Own Bottle!

Written by Shamrina C 1. Giovannis Indulge in Italian flavors, grooving music, pet friendly, and

Highlights Yamu Guide

Unveiling Ramada’s Festive Christmas High Tea Extravaganza!

Written by Shamrina C Mark your calendars for the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th of December,

Highlights Yamu Guide