Sigiriya Wewa
Discover the serene beauty of Sigiriya Wewa, an ancient reservoir offering breathtaking reflections of the iconic Lion Rock and a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Sigiriya Wewa
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the serene beauty of Sigiriya Wewa, an ancient reservoir offering breathtaking reflections of the iconic Lion Rock and a peaceful escape.
"Witness a postcard-perfect reflection of Sigiriya Rock on the calm waters of this ancient tank."
🌅 Sunrise at Pidurangala
Go early for the best sunrise views of Sigiriya Rock! It's worth the climb and much less crowded than the main site.
💧 Stay Hydrated
If visiting during summer, buy water before you go up any rock formations to avoid high prices.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sigiriya Wewa Reflection
Sigiriya Wewa (Tank)
Witness a postcard-perfect reflection of Sigiriya Rock on the calm waters of this ancient tank. A lesser-known, tranquil spot.

Thalkote Wewa Boat Ride
Thalkote Wewa
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride with stunning views of Sigiriya and Pidurangala rocks, especially magical at sunrise or sunset.

Pidurangala Rock Sunrise
Pidurangala Rock
Climb this smaller rock for breathtaking panoramic views of Sigiriya Rock and the surrounding landscape at sunrise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunrise at Pidurangala
Go early for the best sunrise views of Sigiriya Rock! It's worth the climb and much less crowded than the main site.
💧 Stay Hydrated
If visiting during summer, buy water before you go up any rock formations to avoid high prices.
🛶 Peaceful Boat Rides
Take a boat trip on Thalkote Wewa for serene views of Sigiriya and Pidurangala, especially beautiful at sunset.
🚗 Tuk-Tuk Exploration
Hire a tuk-tuk for a day to explore Sigiriya Wewa and other ancient tanks nearby before climbing Sigiriya Rock.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunrise at Pidurangala
Go early for the best sunrise views of Sigiriya Rock! It's worth the climb and much less crowded than the main site.
💧 Stay Hydrated
If visiting during summer, buy water before you go up any rock formations to avoid high prices.
🛶 Peaceful Boat Rides
Take a boat trip on Thalkote Wewa for serene views of Sigiriya and Pidurangala, especially beautiful at sunset.
🚗 Tuk-Tuk Exploration
Hire a tuk-tuk for a day to explore Sigiriya Wewa and other ancient tanks nearby before climbing Sigiriya Rock.
📸 Reflection Spot
Find the Sigiriya Wewa for a stunning, less-crowded reflection of the Lion Rock.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sigiriya Wewa for its serene beauty and the iconic reflections of Sigiriya Rock. It's a peaceful escape offering stunning photographic opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. Some find the surrounding village and tank experiences to be a highlight, offering a glimpse into local life and ancient engineering.
"There are many amazing tourist interest places around Sigiriya Rock and Sigiriya Tank is one of them. We hired a TukTuk at US$ 15 from the Sigiriya Rock Entrance and visited those places prior to climbing the Sigiriya Rock."
Afsan Hasan Khan
"Sigiriya tank is Situated Next to Sigiriya wewa and sigiriya tank length is nearly 1.12km.
This is ancient tank in srilanka."
AZAAR MHD
"Sigiriya tank was an ancient tank and nice"
wajith Mhmd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sigiriya Wewa is easily accessible by hiring a tuk-tuk from the Sigiriya Rock entrance. Many travelers also visit it as part of a village tour or by renting a scooter.
Sigiriya Wewa is located very close to Sigiriya Rock, often just a short tuk-tuk ride away. It's a popular stop for visitors exploring the area.
Hiring a local tuk-tuk driver is highly recommended for exploring Sigiriya Wewa and other nearby ancient tanks. They can offer insights and take you to less-visited spots.
Yes, depending on your starting point, you can walk to Sigiriya Wewa. Some village trails, like the one to Thalkote Wewa, are around 6 km and take about 3 hours.
While direct public transport to the Wewa itself might be limited, you can take a bus to Sigiriya town and then hire a tuk-tuk or walk to the Wewa.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sigiriya Wewa itself is a natural water body and generally does not require an entrance ticket. However, if you plan to visit Sigiriya Rock or Pidurangala Rock, separate entrance fees apply.
Sigiriya Wewa is an open area and can be visited at any time. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
Yes, there is typically a fee for the boat ride experience at Thalkote Wewa. Prices can vary, so it's best to inquire locally.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee for Pidurangala Rock, which is around 500 LKR, making it a budget-friendly alternative for sunrise views.
No, tickets for Sigiriya Rock must be purchased separately at the official entrance to the rock fortress. It's advisable to buy them in advance if possible.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunity is the reflection of Sigiriya Rock on the Wewa's surface, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the beauty of Sigiriya Wewa and the surrounding landscape.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Sri Lanka, especially near historical sites. It's best to check local rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
The Wewa is a haven for birdlife, so bring a telephoto lens if you're interested in bird photography. You might also spot other local fauna.
Absolutely! The Wewa provides a unique vantage point for capturing the grandeur of Sigiriya Rock from a different perspective, often with water in the foreground.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Thalkote Wewa, take a village tour, or simply relax and admire the reflections of the rocks.
Yes, the Wewa is known to attract a variety of bird species, making it a pleasant spot for birdwatching, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
You can spend anywhere from an hour to half a day, depending on whether you're just taking photos, enjoying a boat ride, or exploring the surrounding village trails.
Facilities can be limited directly at the Wewa. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase any snacks or water before you arrive.
Yes, finding a quiet spot by the Wewa for a picnic can be a lovely experience, especially with the scenic backdrop. Remember to take all your trash with you.
🎫 🏨 Accommodation
Yes, several hotels and guesthouses are located near Sigiriya Wewa, offering beautiful views and convenient access to the rock. Wewa Addara Hotel is a popular choice.
You can find a range of options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to more luxurious hotels, some even offering unique stays like treehouses.
Wewa Addara Hotel is frequently mentioned as a family-friendly option with a pool and on-site dining, offering great views of the Wewa.
Many hotels and guesthouses in the vicinity offer rooms with direct views of Sigiriya Rock, enhancing your stay.
Common amenities include swimming pools, on-site restaurants, free parking, and sometimes even unique experiences like village tours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While climbing Sigiriya Rock itself can be challenging for very young children, the Wewa offers a more relaxed experience. Consider staying at family-friendly hotels like Wewa Addara, which often have pools for kids to enjoy after a day of sightseeing. The visual appeal of the Wewa and the reflections of the rocks can also captivate younger imaginations. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and plan visits during cooler parts of the day to keep everyone comfortable.
💰 Budget Travelers
Hiring a tuk-tuk for a day to explore the Wewa and nearby areas is also quite affordable, especially if you negotiate the price. Many guesthouses and simpler accommodations are available in the Sigiriya area, offering budget-friendly stays. Opting for local eateries and street food will also help keep your expenses down while experiencing authentic Sri Lankan flavors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to photograph Sigiriya Rock from Pidurangala Rock at sunrise; the panoramic views are unparalleled. The surrounding village trails and the birdlife around the Wewa also offer ample subjects for photography. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for landscape shots and a telephoto lens for wildlife, particularly birds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Water Tanks of Sigiriya
These water bodies were meticulously planned and constructed, often integrated with the natural topography. The reflections they create of the iconic Sigiriya Rock and Pidurangala Rock are particularly captivating, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Many travelers find these serene locations to be a peaceful contrast to the bustling Sigiriya Rock itself, offering a more tranquil and reflective experience.
Exploring the areas around these tanks often involves village trails, providing opportunities to interact with locals and witness traditional Sri Lankan life. Activities like boat rides on Thalkote Wewa offer unique perspectives of the landscape and are highly recommended for a memorable experience. The combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural immersion makes the Sigiriya Wewa and its surrounding tanks a must-visit for any traveler.
Experiencing Sigiriya from Pidurangala Rock
The iconic view of Sigiriya Rock bathed in the morning light from Pidurangala is a photographer's dream and a truly unforgettable sight. It provides a different perspective on the ancient fortress, allowing you to appreciate its scale and its integration with the surrounding landscape. The entrance fee for Pidurangala is also significantly lower than for Sigiriya Rock, making it a budget-friendly option for incredible views.
Travelers often suggest arriving early to secure a good spot and avoid crowds, especially for sunrise. The journey up Pidurangala is often described as a rewarding adventure, with the breathtaking scenery at the summit being the ultimate prize.
Unique Stays Near Sigiriya
Hotels like Wewa Addara are frequently highlighted for their proximity to the Wewa and Sigiriya Rock, offering not just a place to stay but an experience. These establishments often feature amenities such as swimming pools, on-site dining, and beautiful views, making them ideal for relaxation after a day of exploration. Some even offer family-friendly environments, catering to diverse travel needs.
The appeal of these accommodations lies in their ability to blend comfort with the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Sigiriya region. Whether it's waking up to the sounds of nature or enjoying a sunset view over the Wewa, these unique stays contribute significantly to the overall charm of visiting Sigiriya.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit