logo
5 Reasons Why Sigiriya Should Be on Your Bucket List - Why it's a must visit

5 Reasons Why Sigiriya Should Be on Your Bucket List - Why it's a must visit

Listly28-03-2025
The saga of Sigiriya is one worthy of myth, steeped in power struggles and dynastic intrigue. In the fifth century AD, Prince Kashyapa, driven by ambition, seized the throne in a coup that saw the tragic demise of his father, King Dhatusena. But power gained through treachery is never secure, and Kashyapa, fearing the wrath of his exiled brother, sought refuge in an impregnable stronghold. And so, he chose this colossal rock as the foundation of his fortress palace, transforming it into a marvel of defensive architecture, cascading gardens, and celestial beauty. For years, he ruled from this ethereal citadel, but fate had other plans. His reign ended in battle, his fortress abandoned, and Sigiriya soon found itself repurposed as a Buddhist monastery—a stark contrast to its imperial past. Today, to walk its pathways is to retrace the footsteps of kings and monks alike, each leaving their indelible mark on this ancient stronghold.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

5 Cultural Festivals in Koh Samui: Moonlit Mayhem to Sacred Rituals
5 Cultural Festivals in Koh Samui: Moonlit Mayhem to Sacred Rituals

Listly

time25-06-2025

  • Listly

5 Cultural Festivals in Koh Samui: Moonlit Mayhem to Sacred Rituals

The Koh Samui Full Moon Party is a satellite celebration born from the legendary Full Moon Party of Koh Phangan, dating back to the 1980s. Originally started by a group of travellers to honour the full moon at Haad Rin Beach, this ritual has since evolved into one of Southeast Asia's most iconic party events. Koh Samui's version retains the same high-octane energy, with electronic music, fire shows, and thousands of global revellers dancing under the moonlight on Chaweng Beach. It capitalises on the island's superior infrastructure, wider accommodation range, and broader tourist appeal. While Koh Phangan remains the spiritual home of the Full Moon Party, Koh Samui has cultivated its own identity, offering a more accessible and polished version of the experience. These events are carefully coordinated by local committees to align with the lunar calendar, occasionally shifting to avoid clashes with Buddhist holidays. With its seamless transport links—direct flights into Samui International Airport and ferry connections from neighbouring islands—the island is well-prepared to host such large-scale gatherings. Travellers are advised to secure accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (November to February). Notable Koh Samui resorts like the luxurious Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort provide convenient, upscale lodging for partygoers seeking both comfort and proximity.

Must-do experiences in Sigiriya: A bucket list for adventure lovers
Must-do experiences in Sigiriya: A bucket list for adventure lovers

Listly

time25-06-2025

  • Listly

Must-do experiences in Sigiriya: A bucket list for adventure lovers

With an impressive history of more than 1,500 years, exploring Sigiriya Rock or 'Lion Rock' will easily come off as one of the best things to do in Sigiriya. This UNESCO World Heritage Site speaks volumes of the skill and ability of the ancient builder through the architecture on show. Constructed by King Kashyapa, Sigiriya Rock boasts a gamut of details that range from lion paws found at the entrance, a polished Mirror Wall, stunning boulder & water gardens and the highlight of them all – the Sigiriya Frescoes. These murals depict the maidens believed to have once served in the royal court. Further, at its summit, travellers will be greeted by the ruins of King Kashyapa's palace coupled by sweeping views of verdant valleys, mountains and lakes.

5 Unique Experiences to Explore in Kandy - Adventures to Cherish in the Hill Capital!
5 Unique Experiences to Explore in Kandy - Adventures to Cherish in the Hill Capital!

Listly

time04-06-2025

  • Listly

5 Unique Experiences to Explore in Kandy - Adventures to Cherish in the Hill Capital!

This 100-hectare forest lies above the Temple of the Tooth. It was once a prohibited area, only for use by the King and his family. Once degraded by felling and encroachments for planting, it was declared a sanctuary in 1958. Going for a walk here is both cool and wet but pleasant. The forest is home to about 80 species of bird, some of them endemic. The fauna includes the difficult-to-spot Mouse Deer, civets, porcupines, mongoose, and pangolin. The forest consists of upper and lower canopies, underlayers, and some invasive species. Three Buddhist forest monasteries are also located here.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store