Sigiriya

Rising 200 metres out of the dry-zone plains, Sigiriya is Sri Lanka's single most iconic sight — a 5th-century royal citadel built on top of a colossal column of rock. Climb past the famous mirror wall and cloud-maiden frescoes to the lion's paws, then up to the summit palace ruins for a 360° view over jungle, tanks and distant blue hills.

Come at sunrise to beat both the heat and the crowds, or climb neighbouring Pidurangala Rock for the classic postcard view of Sigiriya itself. Combine it with a village catamaran ride, the golden cave temples of Dambulla, and an elephant safari at nearby Minneriya.