The Sigiriya Gardens are an essential and captivating part of the ancient Sigiriya complex, located at the base of Lion Rock. These gardens are considered among the oldest landscaped gardens in the world and showcase the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the builders during the reign of King Kashyapa I in the 5th century CE. They are a remarkable combination of water, boulder, and terrace gardens, creating a harmonious blend of nature and design.
More Details – Sigiriya Lion’s Rock
Sigiriya Gardens:
Types of Gardens at Sigiriya:
- Water Gardens:
- The water gardens are located at the western entrance to Sigiriya and are a prime example of ancient hydrological engineering. They are designed with pools, fountains, and moats, using a sophisticated system of water channels and underground conduits to manage the flow of water.
- The central garden has a large, rectangular pond surrounded by smaller pools and is flanked by symmetrically arranged pathways. These gardens are believed to have been used for leisure and relaxation by the royal court.
- One of the most impressive features is the ancient fountain system. These fountains, which still operate during the rainy season, are fed by underground water pressure, demonstrating the ingenuity of the ancient hydraulic systems.
- Boulder Gardens:
- The Boulder Gardens are located just beyond the water gardens and lead up towards the rock’s base. This area is a series of natural rock formations that were incorporated into the garden’s design. Pathways were carved into the rocks, and several small caves were created to serve as shelters or meditation spaces, possibly for Buddhist monks or visitors.
- The boulders are strategically placed to give the gardens a sense of natural beauty while providing a protective layout that helped fortify the area.
- Terrace Gardens:
- The Terrace Gardens are located at the foot of the rock and consist of a series of terraced levels that ascend towards Lion Rock. These terraces were built by cutting into the natural slope of the rock, creating a layered structure that seamlessly blends with the landscape.
- The terraces served not only as ornamental gardens but also provided stunning views of the surrounding landscape, leading up to the final ascent to the top of Sigiriya.
Key Features and Design Elements:
- Symmetry and Geometry:
- The layout of the Sigiriya Gardens is marked by an impressive degree of symmetry and geometric precision. The water gardens, in particular, are arranged in a highly structured format, with pathways dividing the ponds and pools into symmetrical shapes.
- Hydraulic Systems:
- The ancient builders created an elaborate system of canals, lakes, dams, and underground tunnels to control water flow. These systems were essential for maintaining the water gardens, ensuring a consistent water supply even during dry periods. The fountains, still operational during monsoon seasons, are proof of the ingenuity of these hydraulic systems.
- Integration of Natural and Man-made Elements:
- One of the remarkable aspects of the Sigiriya Gardens is the integration of natural features (such as rocks, boulders, and natural water sources) with man-made structures. The designers did not seek to dominate the landscape but rather worked with the natural environment to enhance its beauty and functionality.
Cultural Significance:
The Sigiriya Gardens reflect King Kashyapa’s vision of creating a “heaven on earth”. They symbolized royal power and prestige, blending aesthetic beauty with practical functionality. The gardens were not only a place of leisure for the royal family but also demonstrated the kingdom’s mastery of landscaping and water management.
Preservation:
Today, the Sigiriya Gardens are recognized as an integral part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Efforts have been made to preserve their original structure and beauty. Visitors can walk through the gardens, exploring the ancient pools, fountains, and pathways, much like those who lived there centuries ago.
Day Tour Price to Sigiriya
- Day Tour & Transport Cost for Sigiriya:
From Colombo Start from 95 USD PP (Pax 1 to 8)
From Sigiriya Start from 60USD PP (Pax 1 to 8)
Private tour in an A/C car or van with an English speaking chauffeur-guide
Vehicle Options:
Car (up to 2 persons): Toyota Axio, Prius Hybrid, Premio/Honda Fit Shuttle or similar
Van (3 to 8 persons): Toyota KDH/Nissan Caravan or similar - Included – Entrance Tickets, Refreshment, Transport
- Entrance ticket fee for Sigiriya Lion’s Rock – Ticket price for each place US$ 35 / EUR 31 / GBP 26) per foreign adult and US$ 17 / EUR 16 / GBP 13 ticket price per foreign child of age 05 – 12 years are applicable.