sigiriya

Sigiriya is an ancient palace located in the central Matale district, near the town of Dambulla in the central province of Sri Lanka.
Climbing to the top is an experience. We woke up at 5am to start the climb. It is a bit strenous but not hard. There are 1200 steps.  The view from the top is breathtaking especially early in the morning with the clouds actually below, looks like the rock is floating.

Built 1600 years ago, Sigiriya is an exquisite example of  ancient Sri Lankan art and architecture.

at 5am ...at the base of Sigiriya Rock

the "frescoes" are protected in a small sheltered depression 100 m above ground. These shapely ladies of King Kasyapa's harem  are richly adorned with lavish jewellery and dressed in fine garments which barely conceal their graceful bodies.  

and the view from the top.... 

and after descending at about 7:30am, many tourists has started to come in and the clouds has cleared..... now with a clear view of the Sigiriya Rock.