|
The magnificent creation of King Kashapa, Sigiriya is one of the top tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. Located in the North Central part of the country, it excellently displays the unique local architectural traditions. One of the island's seven world heritage sites, it is an impressive blend of ruins of an ancient palace complex with elaborate gardens, a fusion of asymmetrical and symmetrical elements, pathways, extensive moats, ramparts and other features. A distinctive blend of art, hydraulic technology, engineering, gardening, architecture and fifth-century urban planning, Sigiriya is nestled amidst stunning natural beauty which complements the abundant old world charm of the site. Lying between the island's historic capitals, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, the Sigiriya plain has retained much of its lush green surroundings in addition to most of its man-made village reservoirs and present village settlements. Sigiriya is renowned the world over for its beautiful murals which are known to be the oldest drawings in the country. These murals can be seen inside a cave on the western side of the rock. The drawings are said to have been done on a special plaster made out of "gadol", "dahaiya", cow-dung and clay. The maidens in these drawings, painted in brown, green, yellow and red, have been identified as ladies in King Kassapa's court. Although initially there were nearly 500 such murals, only 22 remains to be seen today and thousands of visitors from all cross the world arrive here to admire their beauty. A modern spiral staircase will lead you to the cave where these fifth-century paintings can be seen. These fragmentary survivals will help you picture in your mind the large backdrop of frescoes which adorned the rock in a stretch extending across the western face of the rock. Some experts have even pointed out the possibility of the entire face of the hill having once been a massive picture gallery, making for the world's largest picture perhaps. For travellers seeking Sigiriya accommodation, during their visit to the region, a preferable option is Jetwing Vil Uyana which is set amidst enchanting natural splendour. This exceptional Sigiriya hotel has seamlessly incorporated traditional designs into its rooms and dwellings, presenting an unforgettable stay.
Related Articles -
sigiriya accommodation, sigiriya hotel, jetwing vil uyana, sigiriya murals, sigiriya attractions, sigiriya sightseeing,
|
