Pidurangala Rock photography lighting at sunrise versus sunset

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Leo F.13655 rep2

I want to get the best photo of Sigiriya Rock from Pidurangala. For professional photographers, is the lighting better during the sunrise hike or the sunset hike.

3
5 months ago

4 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

For dramatic lighting, sunrise is vastly superior. The sun rises behind you, casting a beautiful golden glow directly onto the face of Sigiriya Rock. At sunset, you are shooting directly into the sun, which puts Sigiriya in shadow unless you are specifically going for a silhouette shot.

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Nimal W.11540 rep1

If you go for sunrise, bring a very bright headlamp. The last 10 minutes of the climb involve scrambling over massive boulders in complete darkness.

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Maya T.17105 rep2

Sunrise is much better for photos, but be prepared for a massive crowd at the top. Everyone has the same idea. Sunset is usually a bit quieter.

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Zoe R.12560 rep2

The ticket office at the temple base opens very early, around 5:00 AM. Make sure you dress appropriately to pass through the temple grounds before the hike begins.

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Amali S.17110 rep1

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