19/02/2017
PIDURANGALA
Pidurangala is a massive rock located near the world famous Sigiriya Rock fortress. Not Introduced or less known by the tourist for many years and now there are few tourist visit here for many reasons.
This rock is larger than the Sigiriya and the summit is steep slope.
Pidurangala has been a Buddhist monestry and counts many thousands years in existence and the monks were living in the caves around the site.This was refurbished by the King Kashyapa ( 477 – 495 AD) who build the Rock Fortress and the monks who were living in Sigiriya monestry was transferred to Pidurangala.
Reclining Buddha Statute at Pidurangala.
On your way to the summit you will find one time largest brick statute of Buddha in the world, 12.5 meters long and was destroyed in 1960 by treasure hunteres and been reconstructed.
Climbing Pidurangala.
It is said that climbing Pidurangala is more strenuous than climbing sigiriya. So be prepared for a two hour adventourous climb.The first stage of the climb has steep irregular stairs ( If you Have climbed Sigiriya you can climb Pidurangala). And the second stage of the climb starts where the reclingning Buddha statute is. There are no clear defined paths or stairs ( now you will find some arrows marked the way ) your size and fitness becomes a major issue as you have climb up steep boulders and creep. Eventhough it is really worth trying and many have done it.
Simple advice
• It is your holiday and we advise to take your own time to climb.
• Take your own water at least 2liters per person.
• Take some biscuits or snacks be mindful with monkeys.
• Rest often and drink more water.
• Wear proper foot wear.
• Advice to climb early in the morning or inn the late afternoons.
• If you need a guide contact the temple office to arrange a person.By:
Gerard Alexander
Tour Operator / Licensed Tour Guide
SEE Lanka Touring / TripSL
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