A souvenir is an object connected to a person or place that brings back memories for the person who owns it. It has no real significance for anyone else. Souvenirs, like photographs can also be records that bring back memories. In spite of the mass produced kitsch that pass off as keepsakes, souvenirs have an upside. They are most often associated with a particular location and souvenirs help the local economy and help visitors to remember places they have visited. Souvenirs that do not fall into the mass produced category include folk art, handicrafts, antiques and natural objects.
Sigiriya is a town in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka that is known worldwide for its main attraction, the UNESCO heritage site comprising of Sigiriya rock and the complex around it with remains of gardens, water courses, ramparts, moats and the famous paintings of heavenly maidens. Although Sigiriya is not generally known as a shopping destination, it does have places where souvenir shoppers can pick up local handicrafts, folk art, and even natural objects. The Craft Village at Kimbissa, which was built to bring together local craftspeople, is where souvenir shoppers should head. Visitors can observe local crafts people at work and shop at leisure. Items produced here include rush and reed ware, leather goods, brass and silverware, some gem-studded, pottery items, handloom textiles, batik and wood carvings.
Wood carvings are also available in a few carpentry shops on the Dambulla – Sigirya road where a bigger range of wood products are on offer. Those sold as souvenirs range from wall plaques with traditional designs in mahogany and teak wood to elephant statues in light and dark wood, some colourfully decorated, statues of the seated and standing Buddha and other deities in various poses and traditional Sri Lankan masks. A selection of furniture is also available at bigger stores for anyone on the lookout for larger souvenirs. However, the best souvenirs that anyone can take from Sigiriya are photo records of their visit. The archaeological remains, great views from atop Sigiriya rock, and the lush tropical vegetation provide ample subjects for souvenir photos.
Stay amongst the archaeological treasures of a World Heritage site at the Hotel Sigiriya which offers easy access not only to the famed Sigiriya historical complex but to other historical sites in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. As one of prominent hotels Sigiriya offers its visitors, guests can enjoy spacious air-conditioned and modern accommodation, onsite leisure facilities, relaxing spa treatments, dine on a range of local and international dishes made with fresh local ingredients, and enjoy well-planned excursions to nearby attractions. Stay at this hotel in Sigiriyaand be introduced to the history and the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.