Sigiriya or Sinhagiri is an ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. It is a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock around 180 metres high.

It is believed that the history of Pidurangala Vihara goes back beyond to the first and second century BC.[3] From those days Pidurangala was used as a Buddhist monastery and but became a prominent place during the reign of King Kashyapa (473 - 495 AC). Pidurangala Temple (4).jpg According to ancient chronicles, Prince Kashyapa had killed his father King Dhatusena and fled to Sigiriya to find out a more secure place to prevent retaliation attacks from his half-brother, Mugalan. With the arrival of King Kashyapa, the Bhikkus who were meditated there were requested move to the nearby Pidurangala.[4] In a sort of compensation, King Kashyapa refurbished the temple and made it a prominent place.