A highlight of any Sri Lanka itinerary, Sigiriya Rock rises spectacularly 200 metres above the surrounding plains. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this flat-topped rock was the setting for a palace and fortress in the 5th century, complete with water and terraced gardens below. Today only ruins of the palace remain including the rock carved lion paws that act as a gateway, and some well-preserved frescoes of damsals. The panoramic views from the top of the rock are worth the slightly hairy climb up.