Pidurangala - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Pidurangala

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Pidurangala, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Pidurangala and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Pidurangala, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Pidurangala for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Pidurangala

Pidurangala is a large rock formation located in central Sri Lanka, about 175 km north-east of Colombo. It is situated within close proximity to the famous Sigiriya rock fortress, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pidurangala offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for hiking and nature lovers. It is best known for its ancient ruins which include a partially restored temple and monastery, dating back to the 3rd century BC. Climbing Pidurangala rock takes around 2 hours and is a moderate level hike.

What to visit in Pidurangala

• Pidurangala Rock: One of the most popular tourist attractions in Pidurangala is the Pidurangala Rock, which is located near Sigiriya Rock. The climb to the top of the rock takes about an hour, but the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and Sigiriya Rock are well worth the effort.
• Sigiriya Museum: Sigiriya Museum is a must-visit attraction for history lovers, as it offers a great insight into the history and culture of the Sigiriya area. Visitors can learn about the ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka that existed in the area, as well as the art and architecture of the region.
• Lankatilaka Temple: Another popular tourist attraction in Pidurangala is the Lankatilaka Temple. This ancient temple is located on a hill overlooking the surrounding area and features impressive architectural features and sculptures.
• Dambulla Cave Temple: A little further away from Pidurangala is the Dambulla Cave Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple complex contains five caves that are filled with intricate carvings and stunning frescoes that depict various scenes from Buddhist history.
• Minneriya National Park: If you're interested in wildlife and nature, then Minneriya National Park is a great place to visit. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and a wide range of bird species. Visitors can take a jeep safari to explore the park and see its inhabitants up close.
• Kaudulla National Park: Kaudulla National Park is another great option for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world, and visitors can take a guided tour to see them in their natural habitat. The park also features a wide variety of other wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and a variety of bird species. Overall, Pidurangala and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of attractions that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. Whether you're interested in history, culture, wildlife, or nature, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Pidurangala

The best time to visit Pidurangala, Sri Lanka is during the dry season, which is from December to March. During this time, you can expect warm and sunny weather. April is also a good time to visit, although it can be very hot. The monsoon season begins in May and lasts until November, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, making it less favorable for outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Pidurangala

To get to Pidurangala in Sri Lanka, you can take a tuk-tuk or taxi from nearby towns like Sigiriya or Dambulla. The journey from Sigiriya to Pidurangala takes approximately 20 minutes by road. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour where transportation will be included and your guide will take you to the best spots and provide you with valuable insights about the place.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Pidurangala, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Pidurangala

Pidurangala, a small town in Sri Lanka, has a range of delicious traditional foods. Here are some typical foods of Pidurangala with a short description for each of them: 1. Kottu Roti - A popular street food in Sri Lanka made with shredded roti bread, vegetables, egg, meat, and a variety of spices. It is usually served with a spicy curry sauce.
2. Hoppers (Appa) - A traditional Sri Lankan breakfast food made with rice flour and coconut milk. An egg is usually added to the middle of the hopper to make the dish a bit heftier.
3. Pol Sambol - A spicy coconut relish made with shredded coconut, chili peppers, lime juice, red onions, and salt. It is a popular accompaniment to many Sri Lankan dishes.
4. Fish Curry - A fragrant and spicy fish curry, usually made with local fish like tuna or mackerel. It is served with steamed rice or roti bread.
5. Wambatu Moju - A sweet and sour eggplant pickle made with fried eggplant, onions, peppers, and a mix of spices. It is a popular side dish in Sri Lanka.
6. Pineapple Curry - A creamy and slightly sweet curry made with fresh pineapple chunks, coconut milk, and spices.
7. Polos - A spicy curry made with young jackfruit, coconut milk, and spices. It is a vegetarian dish that is high in protein and fiber.
8. Fried Rice - A popular dish in Sri Lanka, made with stir-fried rice, meat (usually chicken or shrimp), eggs, vegetables, and a mix of spices.
9. Katta Sambol - A spicy tomato and onion relish made with red chili peppers, lime juice, and salt. It is a popular accompaniment to many Sri Lankan meals.
10. Roti - A flatbread made with wheat flour and coconut oil, served with a spicy curry or chutney. It is a staple food in Sri Lanka.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Pidurangala an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other tourist attractions in Sri Lanka, Pidurangala may be considered a fairly affordable destination. The entrance fee to Pidurangala is approximately 500 Sri Lankan Rupees (about 2.5 USD) per person, which is relatively inexpensive compared to some other popular tourist destinations in the country. However, the cost of other expenses like transportation, accommodation, and food will depend on one's budget and preferences. Overall, Pidurangala can be a budget-friendly destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Pidurangala

Pidurangala is located in the central part of Sri Lanka, near the historic city of Sigiriya. Therefore, the best areas to find accommodation would be Sigiriya itself or Dambulla, which is just a short distance away. Both of these areas offer a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Additionally, some visitors may choose to stay in the nearby Kandalama or Habarana areas, which also offer a variety of accommodation options. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
You can check hotel prices at Pidurangala here:
Booking.com

Is Pidurangala a safe destination for tourists?

Pidurangala in Sri Lanka is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is recommended that visitors take necessary precautions such as not leaving valuable items unattended and being aware of their surroundings, especially at night. It is also advisable to follow any local customs or regulations and to stay up-to-date on any travel advisories issued by your embassy or local authorities. But overall Pidurangala is not considered a risky place for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Pidurangala.

What type of travelers will enjoy Pidurangala the most?

Pidurangala in Sri Lanka is a great destination for all types of travelers. It offers a wide range of experiences, from hiking, exploring the ancient ruins, enjoying the natural beauty of the place, and the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Couples would enjoy Pidurangala for its romantic and picturesque scenery. It is an ideal location for hiking and enjoying breathtaking views together, and its peaceful atmosphere would make it a haven for couples.
Young people would love Pidurangala for its adventure-filled hikes, opportunities for rock climbing, and bouldering. It also offers a unique experience of exploring ancient Buddhist ruins and temples, which can appeal to the culturally curious and adventure lovers.
Families would enjoy Pidurangala for its natural beauty, hiking, and educational opportunities. It offers a chance for families to bond while exploring the natural beauty of the place and learning about Sri Lankan history. Overall, Pidurangala is a place where visitors of all ages can experience an exciting and memorable trip.

How to get around Pidurangala

The best way to get around Pidurangala is by tuk-tuk or rental scooter. Tuk-tuks are easily available and they provide a very convenient and affordable mode of transportation. If you prefer to have more freedom and flexibility, renting a scooter or motorcycle is an excellent choice as well. However, it is advised to check with your accommodation host or local authorities about the rules and regulations pertaining to renting a vehicle.

What to see around Pidurangala

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Pidurangala: 1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just a few kilometers from Pidurangala and is known for its beautiful frescoes and breathtaking views.
2. Minneriya National Park: This park is home to a large population of elephants and is a great place to go on a wildlife safari.
3. Dambulla Cave Temple: Located about 20 minutes from Pidurangala, this temple complex features five caves filled with beautiful statues and colorful murals.
4. Polonnaruwa Ancient City: This was the capital city of Sri Lanka in the 11th and 12th centuries, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring incredible ancient architecture and ruins.
5. Ritigala Forest Monastery: This ancient monastery is located in the Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve and offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. 6. Kaudulla National Park: This park is another great place to go on a wildlife safari and is particularly known for its large population of wild elephants.
7. Habarana Village: A great place to get a glimpse of rural Sri Lankan life, Habarana is home to several small temples and is a great place to try local food and explore local markets.
Hope this helps you plan your trip!
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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