Lion rock climbing Entrance fee for Sigiriya Lion Rock The entry ticket to the Sigiriya Rock is not cheap, definitely for those on a tighter backpacking budget. Read on for a travel guide to visiting Sigiriya - what to wear, how to get there, the rock climb and where to stay! Jan 27, 2025 · Preparing to climb Lion Rock. The walk takes approximately 5 – 10 minutes to reach the highest point along the trail and a similar time to make you’re way down. Apr 5, 2023 · The best things to do in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka are to visit the famous Lion Rock and climb to the top of Pidurangala for incredible views of the Sigiriya area. Lion Rock is recommended to climb from 7 AM to avoid the heat and crowd. CLIFFS NAME. It is also a great outdoor activity (not too strenuous) in Hong Kong for any travelers looking to explore a more hidden side of Hong Kong. The majority of routes are two to three pitches long and have bolt protection, although some may be quite run out over easy ground, these have been given French style sport climbing grades. Boulder Garden of Lion Rock Sigiriya Apr 17, 2018 · However, if you are inclined to more time in bed and less time hiking, grab a taxi from the station and ask it to drop you off at ‘Lion Rock Country Park,’ or the ‘trailhead for Lion Rock. The original entrance was through the open mouth of a colossal lion structure, which has since collapsed. [26] Jul 5, 2018 · The ride to Lion Rock is a great adventure for intermediate riders or beginner riders that don’t mind some climbing and rocky roads. My adrenaline-pumping climb captures the e Dec 8, 2024 · Pidurangala Rock is the perfect place to have stunning views of Sigiriya Rock. Dec 10, 2019 · This post, Rock climbing in Hangzhou, was originally written when I was living in China between 2014–2015. Lion Rock is considered to be an 'adventure crag' by locals: A long approach -- relative to other areas -- and multipitch climbing keep the hordes away. Climbing Lion Rock in Sigiriya does require a little (lot of) exercise! It took us around an hour to reach the lion statue, and then a lot of faffing taking photos and taking in the views at the top. Nov 24, 2024 · Sigiriya gets its nickname ‘Lion Rock’ because of the huge lion paws that guards the staircase to the entrance of the rock. Climbing the Lion Rock is of course the best way to experience this amazing and ancient rock fortress. [25] On September 10, 2008, a 26-year-old man fell off a 40-meter cliff and died while hiking on Lion Rock. Sigiriya Lion Staircase Tips for Climbing Lion’s Rock. Grade context: HK; Ascents: 168 Aka: 獅子山; 55. Sigiriya, Sri Lanka - January 11th 2025: Tourists climbing up protected metal circular stairways to the top of Sigiriya Lion Rock Sigiriya, Sri Lanka - January 11th 2025: Old stone stairs in Sigiriya rock (Lion rock) fortress with green trees and tourists climbing up. Opening Hours. This Lion Rock GeneRaL Lion Rock Dominating the skyline behind the Kowloon Peninsula, Lion Rock is prob - ably Hong Kong’s best ‘mountain crag’. What to know about climbing the Sigiriya Lion Rock . Lion Rock has two distinct faces: East and West – meaning that either sun or shade, whichever takes your fancy, can be sought throughout the day. Rising 660 feet above Sri Lanka’s jungle, the UNESCO site of Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Feb 1, 2025 · Unique Experience: Climb a 200-meter rock and explore ancient ruins. It’s Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock because of the giant lion claws that function as an entry gate about halfway up the rock. Before climbing the incredible Lion Rock in Sigiriya there are some things that are good to know. The whole trip took us about three hours in total. The climb can be challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort. That said, if you are climbing popular routes on the weekend, such as Gweilo or Austrian Staircase, it's common to have parties above and below you. The Route Topography. Once an entire stone lion, only the giant lion paws remain on either side of the staircase today. When we went in December, high season in Sri Lanka, Lion Rock in Sigiriya was packed. 5/5 Facilities: Vending machine, public toilet at start point Moved Permanently. On the northern side of the rock, you’ll find the main entrance to the palace. This ancient rock fortress rises dramatically from the jungle, offering not only breathtaking panoramic views from the summit but also a journey through centuries of history, artistry, and engineering marvels. The crag is known as Lion’s Head Rock 狮头岩. It promises a breathtaking view Oct 17, 2017 · A simple guide to Lion’s Head Rock 狮头岩. Rainer and Blewett Pass. Feb 28, 2025 · 5. Ascending Lion Rock is a thrilling adventure that allows you to immerse yourself in the grandeur of Sigiriya. The climb begins at the foot of the rock, where you’ll find a well-marked path leading to the summit. Mar 18, 2020 · The name of the huge rock itself translates to English as the Lion’s Rock, because of the enormous Lion’s Paw that was carved by the entrance guarding the way in. Lion Rock – The Iconic Climbing Spot. Much of the Lion Rock’s Mirror Wall is covered with ancient graffiti. Apr 11, 2024 · Best Time to Climb Lion Rock in Sigiriya. Approach the Mid Level Terrace With the Lion’s Paw Entrance . Oct 1, 2023 · Pidurangala Rock is an incredible 360-degree viewpoint located opposite the world-famous Sigiriya Lion Rock. , it was still fairly dark. HIKING LION ROCK Oct 10, 2018 · Lion Rock, Hong Kong’s most famous mountain, is also home to the city’s most scenic and challenging climbing route with a rewarding view at the top. Once you approach the base of the Lion’s Rock, you will see organized terraced gardens built into the hillside. Feb 8, 2024 · Why Hike Lion Rock? Lion Rock (also called Lion Rock Hill) offers some of the most spectacular views of the Kowloon Peninsula. The ticket office opens at 7 am and if you can, get there as soon as possible, as it is cooler in the early morning. It is sitting on the Great Western Divide of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, between Triple Divide Peak (North-East) and Mt. What once was the sole domain of King Kashyapa I can now be Jun 29, 2023 · District: Tai Wai (NT) Duration: (if returning to Tai Wai): 2-3 hours Distance: 7-8km round trip Elevation: 495 meters Difficulty: 3. This guide will give you the safety tips you need for a safe and fun climb up this UNESCO World Heritage site. It represents 80m of Granite rock climbing, usually over 4 pitches, of a max grade of HVS 5b. Stuart, Mt. This post, Rock climbing in Hangzhou, was originally written on my previous travel blog when I was living in China between 2014–2015. Guided climbing courses and Photography services in Hong Kong. Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, Sigiriya Rock, also known as Lion Rock, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an essential stop for travelers. Lion Rock Sigiriya Graffiti. To get there, you need to pass a jungle with wild elephants, cross a moat with crocodiles, and climb the 1200 steps to the top of the rock. Oct 3, 2022 · The Lion Rock in Sigiriya has become a Unesco World Heritage site, and is definitely worth a visit when in Sri Lanka. Climbing Sigiriya Lion Rock: A Step-by-Step Guide Starting the Climb. During your Sigiriya Rock climb you will enter into 8 main areas as mentioned below. 9km for the loop trail, but there are ways to make it shorter. The rock is an iconic landmark that goes hand in hand with Piha Beach. Finally, the real outdoor adventures begin! Mar 20, 2021 · The Lion Gate. May 4, 2016 · Sigiriya rock fortress, AKA "Lion Rock", is located in central Sri Lanka, approximately 3 hours from Colombo. May 6, 2025 · Climbing Sigiriya Rock: Top Tips to Visit. You can’t miss it – you’ll see huge lion paws. Other spots to see the Lion Rock. Jan 13, 2022 · Background information about Sigiriya Rock. It’s the last of our climbs with instructors Ben and Feb 19, 2025 · Climbing Sigiriya Lion Rock is not just about seeing a beautiful sunrise. Best time to climb Lion Rock. Why Climb Here? One of Hong Kong’s most famous peaks, Lion Rock offers incredible views over Kowloon and some of the best multi-pitch sport climbs. The long line up the steep main entrance to the base of the Sigiriya rock fortress turned us off, and we instead decided to weave around and explore the rest of the site of the Sigiriya Lion Rock before climbing. Climb where you want. At the Oct 10, 2018 · Lion Rock, Hong Kong’s most famous mountain, is also home to the city’s most scenic and challenging climbing route with a rewarding view at the top. It also comes with its own set of challenges. Oct 10, 2018 · Lion Rock, Hong Kong’s most famous mountain, is also home to the city’s most scenic and challenging climbing route with a rewarding view at the top. While I was there I discovered this amazing crag outside the city of Hangzhou. Its pyramid separates Lone Pine Creek and Nine Lake Basin. How to Get There: Take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin and hike about 45 minutes. The climb to the top will take about 45 minutes. Watch this video and stunned by this amazing lion rock climbing journey. If you’re on a budget, I’d go as far as to say skip climbing Lions Rock altogether and just head here! It’s honestly got a better view and it really highlights how unique the formation is within the deep Lankan jungle. Although not huge, about 250 ft at its tall - est point, the granite cliff is perched high on a hillside well above the city and with few other parties generally climbing there Dec 3, 2023 · The climb to the top of Lion Rock will take about 45 minutes. May 12, 2025 · The Lion Rock of Sigiriya with extended paws of the lion, all photos by Author. Climbing Lion Rock is not merely an adventure experience, but a significant meaning of never give up which is the spirit of hard-working Hong Kongers. The namesake of Sigiriya translated in Sinhalese, means I climb the beautiful Sigiriya Rock (Lion Rock) in Sri Lanka. Touting a dramatic lion-shaped outcrop that sits regally at its summit, Lion Rock is one of the most quintessential hikes in Hong Kong. [ 10 ] Jun 26, 2023 · LION ROCK HIKE IN HONG KONG DETAILS. The thing that really struck me were the size of its nails. Nov 15, 2021 · However, I did climb Sri Lanka’s Lion Rock and completed it in less than 60 minutes. The document has moved here. Bring water and snacks with you. Angel on east face of Lion Rock. Mar 11, 2025 · Characterized by an outline shape of a Lion or Sphynx sat facing inland, the crag contains 4 archways increasing in size from the sea-to-land direction. On April 1, 2007, a 48-year-old woman lost her way while climbing Lion Rock with her companions, fell off a 100m-cliff and died. Driving through the Matala District in Sri Lanka, an almost 200 meters high rock dominates the skyline. Feb 27, 2025 · Pidurangala Rock is an almost 200m tall rock that sits to the north of the much more popular Lion Rock (which is only 1 meter taller. Jun 27, 2017 · THE LION ROCK. Jun 27, 2022 · Overall, climbing Sigiriya Lion Rock was a unique experience, one that we can wholeheartedly recommend. Its main 300-foot, multi-pitch route Jan 6, 2025 · It is an ancient rock fortress that dates back to 477-495 AD. [3] It is situated in Sequoia National Park , one mile northeast of Mount Stewart , and one mile southwest of Triple Divide Peak . This is the route Gweilo via Topcat on Lion Rock in Kowloon, Hong Kong. Narrow Metal Staircases: Beyond the Lion’s Gate, the climb becomes steeper, with narrow metal staircases that are open on the sides. Aug 29, 2024 · Sigiriya Rock (also known as Lion Rock) is an ancient fortress that was built on top of and around a 200-meter (656-foot) rock. A weird mix of natural rock features and some boulders cemented together almost to the point of a brick wall, care should be taken for loose rock and plant species growing on the faces. Exploring the whole area around and on top of the rock will take you about 2 – 3 hours. The Lion’s Gate: This iconic section features two massive lion’s paws carved into the rock. Lion Rock is a 12,360-foot-elevation (3,770-meter) mountain summit located along the Great Western Divide of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, in Tulare County of northern California. Jan 3, 2025 · Lion Rock — Hong Kong’s iconic peak is not only known for its breathtaking views of the city but also for its peculiar shape that can be identified from miles away. Exploring the whole site will take you about 2 hours. m. 2023. The massive monument dates back to the 5th century AD and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike Distance: The Lion Rock Hong Kong Hike was 6. Covered in very sharp positive flakey holds and cracklines. The entrance for the Lion Rock is open every day from 7:00 to The Lion Gate and Climbing Stretch In 1831 Major Jonathan Forbes of the 78th (Highlanders) Regiment of Foot of the British Army, while returning on horseback from a trip to Pollonnuruwa, encountered the "brushwood-covered summit of the rock of Sigiri". Jon on Last Minute-last round 8a+ You may also like. Hiking to the top is possible for both of these rocks, but hiking at dawn to the top of Pidurangala Rock is a real adventure. These gardens are part of the ancient royal gardens and feature symmetrical pools, fountains, and lush greenery. This could mean early in the morning (good to avoid the hottest time of day too) or on a weekday. ) Pidurangala Rock which translates to “offered piles of Gold” is an important place for Buddhists and was first used as a Buddhist monastery. Our guide pushed us for an early climb to avoid the heat of Apr 22, 2021 · Perseverance, grit, and determination—the “Lion Rock spirit” resonates like a beating drum when you’re climbing up the 495-metre monolith dwarfing over Kowloon. A beginner friendly dome of rock in an idyllic open woodland setting overlooking Snowdon and Llyn Padarn. The palace that was built on top of Sigiriya is believed to have been constructed between 1,500-1,600 years ago. It delivers staggering views of the Kittitas Valley, the Enchantments, Mt. And that was with multiple stops en-route for taking photographs and gaping at the scenery and the history that surrounded me. Best of all, you get an incredible view of Lion’s Rock itself, which is really special! Jul 21, 2021 · Lion Rock is a prominent island on Piha Beach in the Waitakere Ranges. If I could do it, you can do it too. Next, make your way to the most exciting part of the experience. Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island can also be seen on a good day. The rock is almost 200 meters high and geologically is a plug leftover from the remains of a long-extinct volcano. Lion Rock seen from Pidurangala Rock. Refreshments are available near the main entrance, however you won’t be able to buy anything within the site. A short, but steep climb up this ancient Buddhist site, rewards you with sweeping panoramic views of Sigiriya and the surrounding area. Built in the 5th century, Sigiriya was a fortress city with defensive walls, a palace, and landscaped gardens, later becoming a Buddhist monastery before being abandoned in the 14th century. Climbing to many people means trekking up a hill or mountain, but when you climb Lion Rock, it is mainly stairs with handrails to help you, making it an easier ascent. Hidden deep in the jungle of Sri Lanka’s central province, lies an amazing UNESCO World Heritage site of truly epic proportions: The Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress. West Face of Lion Rock Crag; Landscape May 27, 2023 · Admire the Lion’s Rock Terrace Gardens. Climbing Sigiriya rock fortress is hard but not impossible. Climbing Lion Rock to visit the remains of the ancient civilization that used it as a fortress is the main reason people travel to Sigiriya. Stewart (South-West). It will take approximately 1 1/2 – 2 hours to climb Sigiriya Rock. These graffiti have been a great help in identifying new words of the Sinhala language. But 1 kilometer north of Lion Rock is another rock mountain worth climbing: Pidurangala. Hero In the fifth episode of our climbing adventures we take on the mighty Lion Rock in a three-pitch climb. For those living in Hong Kong, this lion-shaped hill overlooking the city is a symbol of grit and determination. Best Routes: White Wall (6b+) – A steep Lion Rock is one of the gems of the Sequoia National Park. It doesn’t get more Indiana Jones-like than this. The climb begins at the base of the rock, where you’ll see beautiful gardens and ponds. Discover the beauty and grandeur of Sigiriya Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka. Apr 7, 2019 · A first-hand travel guide to climbing Sigiriya, Sri Lanka and everything you need to plan your visit of the Lion Rock. Aug 15, 2019 · If you want to know how it feels like the climb of stairs from the Lion Pawns to the top of Sigiriya Lion Rock palace in Sri Lanka here it is! Please be a Oct 10, 2018 · Lion Rock, Hong Kong’s most famous mountain, is also home to the city’s most scenic and challenging climbing route with a rewarding view at the top. It’s called the Lion Rock due to the massive lion feet. We began and finished on Chuk Yuen Road and completed a full loop but you can shorten the trail by starting at Chuk Yuen Road and doing an out and back to Lion Rock. [citation needed] In November 2011, a 73-year-old hiker fell off a cliff at the top of Lion Rock and died. Battling 1200 steps and strong winds, I make it to the summit and and enjoy the incredible view Nov 26, 2022 · Standing opposite the Lion’s Rock of Sigiriya, Pidurangala Rock is a budget-friendly alternative to the UNESCO world heritage site of Lion’s Rock. Apparently, in the past there was also a lion body, the head, shoulders… Many tourists stop there and don’t further up : fatigue, having vertigo, afraid to go further… All of this I guess. Standing tall at 200 meters (660 feet), Sigiriya Lion Rock has about 1,200 steps. After climbing several stairs, we reached the Lion Gate. They looked more like daggers! During the 5 th century, this staircase led to the enormous gaping mouth of the lion, which had a religious significance to it Jan 16, 2024 · In the middle of Sri Lanka, you’ll find the ancient rock fortress known as “Sigiriya Rock” or “Lion Rock”. When we started at 5:30 a. Location: Near Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon. You can easily recognize the Lion Gate, there are two big lion paws, well visible. 4. Lion Rock has a good setting for multi-pitch climbing. FR Oct 10, 2023 · The Climb to the Lion Rock. Climbing Sigiriya Lion Rock is moderately difficult. ’ Although half the fun is navigating the back streets and getting a glimpse of the sights and smells of Kowloon. Lion Rock Mostly Sport climbing 55 routes in cliff. Nov 14, 2019 · For decades climbers have flocked to Hong Kong’s Lion Rock, a 1,624-foot mountain on the Kowloon peninsula whose contour resembles a crouching lion. They were inspired by the frescoes – which you can read more about below – and in a major part feature poetry. Pick a day/time that isn’t extremely busy. iwqn mek snpaz psxv unxk ggvnt vpjdsm aorscbk qdolr xtpf