TM Lanka Tours

One of Asia’s major archaeological sites, Sigiriya presents a unique concentration of fifth century urban planning, architecture, gardening, engineering, hydraulic technology and art. Centered on a massive rock rising 200 meters about the surrounding plain, Sigiriya’s location is one of considerable natural beauty and historical interest. Sigiriya took top honours by being the most significant wonder in Sri Lanka which has already been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The “Time” Magazine recently called it ‘the world’s first playboy mansion’ – Sri Lankans have outdone Playboy don Hugh Hefner by centuries in building “the first playboy mansion” atop the Sigiriya rock fortress complete with bunnies (the number would have sent Hefner raving) where high living and enticing the senses was the order of the day… “Around the central royal penthouse, which was off-limits to all except Kasyapa and his queen, a swimming pool, a theater and hanging gardens were carved into the rock. Nearby, Kasyapa’s 500 concubines would wash under fountains and sun naked in an adjoining pavilion. The king had frescoes of his favourite nymphs painted on the rock lining the steps to his palace, advertising to all his latest conquests.”