In the middle of Sri Lanka’s steamy jungle rises Sigiriya, a 200m-high monolith with lion paws carved into its face and a ruined palace on top. It’s wild to look at—and the backstory is even wilder.
Back in 475 AD, Prince Kasyapa wasn’t next in line for the throne. So, he killed his father, stole the crown, and fled inland to build an unbreachable sky palace atop this giant rock. Moats, water gardens, frescoes, traps—the works. It was part fortress, part ego trip.
His brother Moggallana (the rightful heir) eventually returned with an army. Kasyapa rode out to fight, got stranded in battle, and took his own life. End of story. Sigiriya was never used as a palace again.
Today it’s Sri Lanka’s version of Uluru—red rock, sacred vibes, and rich history. And yep, the climb is steep, sweaty, and worth every step.
Sri Lanka keeps surprising us—especially off the coast. Jungle kings, ancient rock fortresses… it’s not all surf and sambol.
:: uge
