Tour Guide, Kandy, Sri Lanka
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Pidurangala
Pidurangala is a massive rock located near the world famous Sigiriya Rock fortress. Not introduced or less known by the tourists for many years and now there are few tourists who visit here for many reasons.
This rock is larger than the Sigiriya and the summit is steep slope.
Pidurangala has been a Buddhist monastery and counts many thousands years in existence and the monks were living in the caves around the site. This was refurbished by King Kashyapa (477 – 495 AD) who built the Rock Fortress and the monks who were living in Sigiriya monastery 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 hunters and been reconstructed.
Climbing Pidurangala.
It is said that climbing Pidurangala is more strenuous than climbing Sigiriya. So be prepared for a two hour adventurous 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 recline 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 to climb up steep boulders and creep. Even though 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 in the late afternoons
Article by: Gerard Alexander