Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave from Sigiriya

Sigiriya , Sri Lanka

Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave from Sigiriya

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About this experience

Visit 2 UNESCO world heritage sites in 1 trip. Make the trip to the Sigiriya rock fortress and the Dambulla cave temple from Sigiriya. Experience rich cultural and historical heritage and also be rewarded with stunning scenery from atop.

Available options

Per Person

Pickup included

What's included

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle.

Service of English-speaking chauffeur guide.

Hotel pickup and drop-off.

2 x 500 ml of water bottle per person.

Detailed itinerary

Sigiriya, situated in Sri Lanka's cultural heartland, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient rock fortress. Rising dramatically from the central plains, Sigiriya boasts breathtaking vistas and a rich history dating back to the 5th century. Its sheer rock face is adorned with exquisite frescoes depicting celestial maidens, while the summit hosts the remnants of a once-grand palace complex. Sigiriya remains a testament to ancient engineering and artistic brilliance, drawing visitors from around the globe to marvel at its majestic beauty.

Stop 2

Sigiriya, situated in the heart of Sri Lanka, is a mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock fortress. Rising majestically from the surrounding plains, this colossal rock formation stands as a testament to ancient engineering and architectural prowess. Crowned by the remnants of a royal palace, Sigiriya offers visitors a glimpse into the island's rich history and cultural heritage. Its sheer vertical walls, adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting celestial maidens, captivate the imagination. As visitors ascend the steep staircase carved into the rock, they are rewarded with panoramic vistas of lush greenery and distant mountains, making Sigiriya an unforgettable destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Dambulla Cave Temple, located in central Sri Lanka, is a mesmerizing testament to the island's rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. Carved into a massive rock formation, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a complex of ancient cave temples dating back to the 1st century BCE. As you ascend the steps to the entrance, you're greeted by a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. Inside, the caves unveil a treasure trove of Buddhist art and architecture, with intricate murals depicting scenes from the life of Lord Buddha and statues of various deities. Each cave exudes its own unique aura, offering a serene sanctuary for meditation and reflection. Beyond its religious significance, Dambulla Cave Temple stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka's enduring commitment to preserving its cultural legacy, attracting visitors from around the globe to marvel at its timeless beauty and spiritual ambiance.

What's not included

Food And Drinks

Expenses of personal nature.

Gratuties.

Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress

Dambulla Royal Cave Temple

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Comfortable walking shoes recommended for this tour. Wearing well-covered attire along with Sandals or Flip Flops are recommend for Dambulla Cave Temple and to all other religious sights of Sri Lanka.

Not recommended for participants with back problems (climbing in Sigiriya)

Not recommended for pregnant women (climbing in Sigiriya)

Not wheelchair accessible (certain areas)

Subject to favorable weather conditions

About Sigiriya

Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient palace ruins and stunning frescoes. This 5th-century rock fortress offers breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history and culture.

Top Attractions

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

The iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a 5th-century palace and fortress complex built by King Kasyapa. The climb to the top offers stunning views and a glimpse into ancient Sri Lankan history.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours USD 30 (foreign tourists)

Pidurangala Rock

Pidurangala Rock offers an alternative climb with breathtaking views of Sigiriya and the surrounding landscape. It's less crowded and more affordable than Sigiriya Rock.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours USD 5 (entry fee)

Sigiriya Museum

The Sigiriya Museum provides a comprehensive overview of the history and significance of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. It houses artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient site.

Historical/Museum 1 hour USD 10 (foreign tourists)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian (unless served with egg or meat)

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat, cooked on a hot plate with spices.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian

Fish Ambul Thiyal

A sour and spicy fish curry made with goraka (a type of sour fruit) and a blend of spices.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian, contains seafood

Popular Activities

Rock climbing (Sigiriya and Pidurangala) Jeep safaris (Minneriya National Park) Tea tasting Spa treatments Visiting ancient temples and ruins Watching cultural shows Boat rides on Habarana Lake Elephant rides

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This is the best time to visit Sigiriya due to pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. The clear skies offer the best views of the rock and surrounding landscapes.

25-32°C (77-90°F) 77-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sigiriya is generally safe for tourists, but common sense and precautions should be taken to ensure a smooth trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides.
• Negotiate prices before starting a journey or purchasing items.
• Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Bandaranayake International Airport • 160 km (100 miles)
Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 100 km (62 miles)

By train

Habarana Railway Station

By bus

Habarana Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sigiriya Village Habarana

Day trips

Dambulla Cave Temple

30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day

The Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five intricately decorated caves with statues and frescoes of the Lord Buddha and various deities.

Minneriya National Park

20 km (12.4 miles) • Full day

Minneriya National Park is famous for its elephant gathering, especially during the dry season. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife safaris.

Polonnaruwa Ancient City

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka. It features well-preserved ruins of royal palaces, temples, and monuments.

Festivals

Esala Perahera • August Sigiriya Festival • August/September

Pro tips

Start your climb to Sigiriya Rock early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Hire a local guide for a more detailed and engaging experience at Sigiriya.
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
Carry plenty of water and wear sun protection when exploring the rock fortress.
Visit the Sigiriya Museum before climbing the rock to gain context and historical insights.