Sigiriya or “Lions Rock” draws tourists from all over for a glimpse, and maybe a climb, of the 5th-century UNESCO-listed rock fortress rising out of the village. This 180-metre granite peak was a secluded Buddhist monastery until King Kashyapa, who feared revenge after seizing the throne, built his palace on its summit. With a lion-shaped gateway and the ruins of a complex city at the top, it’s certainly worth the hair-raising climb up the steps hugging the rockface. Don’t miss the ancient frescoes of bejewelled ladies on the way down, and a wall of stone that was polished like glass, some say so the King could see his reflection.

The surrounding village has become rather touristy, but the countryside is full of smaller temples, monasteries and lush jungle. A roving population of wild elephants migrate between the surrounding national parks, and safaris here can be truly epic. To soak up the best sunrise or sunset views of Sigiriya Rock, many climb Pidurangala Rock, an adjacent outcrop with panoramic views and its own spiritual history. These awe-inspiring sites can draw big crowds, but there are always quieter corners and serendipitous moments to be found away from the masses where Sigiriya’s true magic comes to life (speak to us, we can help you find them…).