Day 2 was a lovely day, we hung out at Kandalama during the morning and in the afternoon we set out to Sigiriya Rock also known as Lion Rock which we climbed . It’s supposedly 1000 steps to the top so me and Andy must’ve done 999. It was pretty tiring but well worth the views, on top and all around the rock are the ruins of an ancient palace complex, built during the reign of King Kasyapa (477 – 495 AD) and it is one of the 7 World Heritage Sites. 

The history of Sigiriya Rock Fortress: King Kasyapa murdered his father King Dhatusena by walling him alive and then usurping the throne which rightfully belonged to his brother Mogallana. Mogallana fled to India to escape being assassinated by Kasyapa but vowed revenge. In India he raised an army with the intention of returning and retaking the throne of Sri Lanka which was rightfully his. Knowing the inevitable return of Mogallana, Kasyapa is said to have built his palace on the summit of Sigiriya as a fortress and pleasure palace.  Mogallana finally arrived and declared war. During the battle Kasyapa’s armies abandoned him and he committed suicide by falling on his sword.