Sigiriya Rock

Abstract

This chapter critically discusses the current heritage management processes deployed at the Sigiriya World Heritage site in Sri Lanka, a significant tourist attraction. We examine the current condition of the site and the lack of involvement of the associated communities in its management. Through a series of inquiries among healers, artisans, and irrigation managers, new insights are gained into indigenous heritage values and meanings that are separated from heritage values assigned to Sigiriya. These insights compel an argument for the necessity to incorporate the ideas and opinions of the traditional knowledge keepers of the ancient villages in the vast forest land around Sigiriya. We end with suggesting a template arising out of local analyses for changing the management protocols at Sigiriya.