Archaeological treasures are scattered around the Sigiriya area and the Pidurangala caves and temple atop the Pidurangala hill, just across from the Sigiriya rock is one of these. Although it is in close proximity to the famous Sigiriya archaeological site it is less well known but nevertheless would make an interesting side trip to those interested in exploring the history of the area free of the crowds that throng Sigiriya. 
Although Pidurangala is said to have been occupied even in the 1st century BCE the remains here date from the 5th century AD when it is believed to have been a monastery housing several hundred monks. The ruins spread over 12 acres are found in clearings in the forest and only give the barest hint of what they might have been. The scanty remains of ancient structures seem to denote that several monastic buildings occupied the site including a chapter house, an image house, a place for the worship of the bodhi tree, a dagoba, residential facilities for monks, a hall for sermons all enclosed by a boundary wall. Natural rock caves are found by the approach road one of which has a brick enclosure with a mix of old and recent Buddha statues in it. Tree shaded set of steep steps between the rocks behind this cave give way to a path between boulders and a final scramble over a rock leads to a somewhat larger cave atop the hill in which is a remarkable 48 foot long brick statue of the reclining Buddha. It appears that this image house was painted at one time but now only the lime plastering remains. The rock face here also bears an ancient inscription. While the ancient remains are definitely of interest, those willing to climb past the caves to the top of Pidurangala rock will be rewarded with fabulous views of the surrounding area including a really interesting view of the famed Sigiriya rock.

Enjoy a location close to the antiquities of a UNESCO World Heritage Site by staying at the Hotel Sigiriya. As a prominent hotel in Sigiriya guests are offered air conditioned well appointed accommodation, opportunities to taste local cuisine made with fresh seasonal local ingredients and a range of leisure options that include elephant safaris, relaxing Ayurveda spa treatments, onsite tennis and swimming and excursions to world famous archaeological sites. Stay at one of the most well known hotels Sigiriya to experience Sri Lanka’s extraordinary history and an exciting tropical destination.