The Sigiriya Lion’s Gate is one of the most iconic and significant features of the Sigiriya rock fortress in Sri Lanka. It served as the grand entrance to the upper palace complex located at the summit of the rock. The gate is named for the massive lion statue that once flanked the entrance, a structure that was both impressive and symbolic of royal power and protection.
More Details – Sigiriya Lion’s Rock
What is Sigiriya Lion’s Gate
Design and Structure of the Lion’s Gate:
- Lion’s Paws: The entrance to the summit is marked by two gigantic stone-carved lion paws that remain intact today. These paws are carved from the natural rock at the base of the steep staircase leading to the top of the rock. The lion’s paws are large, detailed, and stand out prominently against the rock face.
- The Lion’s Head: Historical records and reconstructions suggest that, originally, the lion’s body and head were also part of the structure, but these have not survived over time. Visitors would have ascended the staircase through the lion’s open mouth, walking between its paws and climbing to the summit. The absence of the lion’s upper body and head today has left only the monumental paws, but these alone give a sense of the grandeur and imposing nature of the gate.
- Symbolism: The lion was a symbol of royal authority and strength in ancient Sri Lankan culture, and the Lion’s Gate was meant to convey both power and divine protection. It served as a guardian to the palace and fortress above, an intimidating feature that added to the defensive nature of Sigiriya as a whole.
Function of the Lion’s Gate:
- The Lion’s Gate served both practical and ceremonial purposes. It was the main point of access for anyone ascending the rock to reach the royal palace and the other structures at the top. The lion-shaped gateway created an awe-inspiring entrance, signaling that only those worthy of the king’s presence could pass through.
- Defensively, the gate was part of the larger fortifications of the rock, making it difficult for invaders to approach the summit. Combined with the natural steepness of the rock and the complex system of moats, ramparts, and walls surrounding the fortress, the Lion’s Gate added another layer of protection.
Modern-Day Lion’s Gate:
Today, visitors to Sigiriya can still see the massive lion paws as they climb towards the summit of the rock. The steep staircase leading through the Lion’s Gate is part of the final ascent to the top of Sigiriya, where the ruins of King Kashyapa’s palace are located. Although the lion’s head and much of the upper structure are lost, the gate remains a dramatic and iconic part of Sigiriya’s historical legacy.
The Lion’s Gate continues to captivate visitors with its imposing appearance and its connection to Sri Lanka’s ancient royal past.
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.