Deraniyagala Cave

Sigiriya Rock

Before climbing the rock, we pause to examine this monastic cave shelter. The cave itself predates the occupation of Sigiriya by Kasyapa. When discovered, it contained faint traces of painting (now practically invisible), that dated to Kasyapa's time. They depicted flying apsarasas, like the Sigiriya Maidens on the rock above; and indeed, similar decorations may have been painted on many of the caves and pavilions in the garden.