Sigiriya sunrise, the best spots and when to go

First: you can't watch sunrise from Sigiriya Rock

The gate opens at about 7:00, after the sun is up. Any tour promising "sunrise on Sigiriya" means sunrise of Sigiriya, from somewhere nearby. That's better anyway, because the view you want has the Lion Rock in it.

The good news: there are five places within 15 minutes of the rock to watch it, from a proper climb to a lie in.

The five spots

Tap a spot to compare how much effort it takes, what it costs, and what you'll see.

For exact leaving times by month, use the sunrise planner.

Getting the photo

• The best light is 10 minutes either side of sunrise. Don't pack up when the sun clears the horizon: that's when Sigiriya's west face turns orange.
• Mist sits in the jungle on cool mornings from about November to February, which makes the rock look like it's floating.
• From Pidurangala, walk to the left (south) edge of the summit, away from the crowd at the main ledge.
• A phone is enough. Use a 2 to 3× zoom for the rock, and tap to expose for the sky.

Not a morning person? Try sunset

Pidurangala works just as well at sunset, with warm light across the plain and an easier climb in daylight. The Sigiriya tank bund is lovely too, when the herons fly home. Bring a torch for the walk down, and take a tuk tuk home: elephants cross the roads around dusk.

Sigiriya sunrise: quick questions