Pidurangala climb
Pidurangala is a breathtaking rock formation located just a few kilometres north of Sigiriya. Its history is interwoven with that of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and because it is far more difficult to climb, it has often been overlooked by tourists.
The history of Pidurangala Viharaya dates back beyond the first and second century BC. It was used as a Buddhist monastery and became prominent during the reign of King Kashyapa (473 – 495 AD).
Prince Kashyapa killed his father King Dhatusena and fled to Sigiriya to build a more secure place to prevent retaliation attacks from his half-brother Mugalan. With the arrival of King Kashyapa, the Bhikkus who were meditating there were requested move to the nearby Pidurangala.and were compensated when Kashyapa refurbished the temple.
Pidurangala was also formed by volcanic activity much like the Sigiriya rock.
Pidurangala appears larger than Sigiriya and its upper surface is steeply sloped which is why it was not suitable for large-scale building activity. The rocky outcrops that surround the central rock indicate what the area around Sigiriya may have looked like prior to its preparation as a royal citadel. The Pidurangala area has been occupied on and off for over 2500 years by monks who lived in the caves around the site.
Climbing to the top of Pidurangala Rock is more strenuous than climbing Sigiriya.
If you are fit and adventurous it is a climb worth making and will take you around two hours.
The climb can be divided into two stages.
First Stage
This climb has very steep irregular steps leading to a landing. This stage is strenuous but doable by reasonably fit people. (If you climbed Sigiriya you can climb this).
Second Stage.
This is predominately uncharted territory. It has no clearly defined paths or stairs. The second stage of the climb starts at the far end of this landing, past the Reclining Buddha, and should only be attempted by those who are fit and not over-weight. Your size and fitness becomes a major issue here because you have to climb up steep boulders and creep through very tight crevices. This stage is definitely not for the unfit or overweight.
SIGIRIYA – A FORTRESS BUILT IN THE SKY
Built by king Kashyapa in the 5th Century AD and abandoned soon after his death, the Sigiriya Rock fortress is unique among ancient architectural, artistic, and engineering feats. Some of Sigiriya's mysteries remain unsolved to this day.
Remnants of the royal palace on top of the 200-metre-high monolith, and the gardens in the surrounding area exhibit the practical and aesthetic value of Sigiriya as the home of a powerful king.
The fertile lands of Sigiriya have been used for agriculture for at least 2000 years. It is thought that the area has been inhabited since pre-historic times.