Food In Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Food History of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Sigiriya, known as the Lion Rock, is steeped in history and is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic sites. While the site itself, a massive column of rock nearly 200 meters high, doesn't have an extensive recorded food history, it was once the center of a short-lived kingdom in the 5th century. The rock fortress was established by King Kasyapa (477-495 CE), and during this era, there would have been royal feasts and a variety of local cuisines. The surrounding regions cultivated rice, vegetables, and a variety of spices, contributing to flavors that have evolved into the Sri Lankan cuisine known today. The frescoes and water gardens stand testament to the importance of both aesthetics and agricultural innovation, elements which surely extended to food preparation and consumption.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

The following dishes reflect a blend of Sinhalese, Tamil, and influences from various trading nations such as Portugal, the Netherlands, and England, thus forming the rich culinary heritage of Sri Lanka.

1. Kottu Roti (Non-Veg) - A popular street food dish made with godhamba roti, vegetables, egg, and sometimes meat, all chopped and mixed on a hot griddle.
2. Hoppers (Aappa) (Veg/Non-Veg) - A pancake-like dish made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, with variations that may include an egg or sweetened with palm treacle.
3. String Hoppers (Idiyappam) (Veg) - Steamed rice noodle pancakes that are perfect for soaking up curry sauces and dal.
4. Pol Roti (Veg) - A flat coconut bread that’s griddled and often served with lunu miris, a spicy salsa-like mix.
5. Dhal Curry (Parippu) (Veg) - A staple dish made from red or green lentils, cooked with coconut milk and a variety of spices.
6. Sambol (Veg) - A condiment made from grated coconut, red onions, dried whole chilies, lime juice, and salt. The most famous variation is the spicy Pol Sambol.
7. Fish Ambul Thiyal (Sour Fish Curry) (Non-Veg) - A sour fish curry dish that uses a dried goraka paste to give it a unique flavor.
8. Wambatu Moju (Eggplant/Brinjal Pickle) (Veg) - A deliciously tangy dish featuring deep-fried eggplant combined with spices and sugar syrup.
9. Chicken Curry (Non-Veg) - A variety of chicken curry exists, utilizing local spices and coconut milk to create rich, flavorful sauces.
10. Wood Apple Juice (Veg) - A sweet and sour beverage made from the wood apple fruit, which is indigenous to Sri Lanka.

Top Famous Restaurants in Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

While enjoying these local delicacies, consider visiting some of Sigiriya’s acclaimed restaurants.

• Chaminda’s
  Address: Main Road, Sigiriya
  Famous Food: Rice and Curry (Veg/Non-Veg)
• Ahinsa Restaurant
  Address: Inamaluwa-Sigiriya Road, Sigiriya
  Famous Food: Traditional Sri Lankan Dishes (Veg/Non-Veg)
• Wijesiri Family Restaurant
  Address: Sigiriya Road, Sigiriya
  Famous Food: Hoppers (Veg/Non-Veg)
• Gedara Hotel
  Address: New Town, Sigiriya
  Famous Food: Pol Roti with Lunu Miris (Veg)
• Rithu Restaurant
  Address: Near Sigiriya Rock Front, Sigiriya
  Famous Food: Authentic Sri Lankan Buffet (Veg/Non-Veg)

The restaurants in Sigiriya showcase the best of local flavors and offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to cater to diverse palates. While indulging in these culinary delights, always explore the varying heat levels of spice to find what best suits your tastes.