Rachel Dorsey
To me there is nothing more thrilling than emerging from customs and immigration and beginning a journey through Asia – anywhere in Asia usually ticks the boxes. It is impossible to avoid the realization you’ve arrived in a completely new place – full of energy and sounds and smells and often, heat.
I paid a visit to Sri Lanka – a place where floral wreaths adorn statues, breakfasts included crispy hoppers full of eggs, mischievous monkeys play and frolic at temples and lumbering elephants crossing roads.
Of the visits that I was most excited about was to the famed ancient rock formation of Sigiriya. Located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya looms over lush jungle countryside and a small trail hugs its sides. Within our group, a poll revealed that not as many travelers were quite as excited about making an early morning climb (necessary to avoid large numbers of hikers). So at dawn, I emerged from my accommodations nestled in paddy fields and a very small group of us made the short drive to the start of the hike.
The ruins of the capital lie at the top of “Lion’s Rock,” formed from the magma of an extinct volcano. Originally a monastery, the royal residence of Kasyapa was constructed in the 5th century and today a collection of staircases and ancient pools welcome those who make the trek to the top while frescoes decorate its walls.
The walk itself is one that looks worse than it is although travelers should still be moderately fit and as the staircases and paths are narrow, coordination with other hikers is required. The views at the top of the ruins make any sweat well worth the climb. Arriving early minimizes the crowds and helps to avoid the heat that the country is known for which makes lingering at its top more enjoyable.
Years later my favorite tennis shoes still bear the stains of the Sigiriya’s red soil – and for that, I’m thankful.