Sigiriya - Peak

Sigiriya (Lion Rock) is an ancient rock fortress in central Sri Lanka, rising approximately 180 metres above the surrounding plain. King Kashyapa I (r. 477-495 CE) built a monumental palace atop the rock, decorating its sides with frescoes of celestial figures and constructing an iconic gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The site features sophisticated water gardens among the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. After Kashyapa's defeat in 495 CE, Sigiriya was converted into a Buddhist monastery. Earlier occupation dates to the 3rd century BC, when Buddhist monks used caves as residences. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982.