Day Tour to Dambulla & Sigiriya
Active
12h - 14h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Overview:
Discover the Rich Culture & Heritage and Nature of Sri Lanka visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Golden Rock Cave Temple within a day. This is one of the most popular tour when visiting Sri Lanka.
You will be provided with luxury air-conditioned, comfortable vehicle with a professional English-Speaking Chauffer Guide to help with your tour.
Available options
Colombo-Dambulla- Sigiriya
Duration: 14 hours<br/>Air- condioned Vehicle: Car /Mini Van /Bus/Coach<br/>Starting point:<br/>Colombo, Sri Lanka<br/>Pickup included
Negombo - Dambulla- Sigiriya
Duration: 13 hours<br/>Negombo-Dambulla-Sigiriya: Negombo-Dambulla-Sigiriya- Negombo<br/>Air condioned Vehicle: Ccar/Mini Van/Bus/Coach<br/>Starting point:<br/>Negombo, Sri Lanka<br/>Pickup included
Mount Lavinia - Dambulla
Duration: 14 hours<br/>Mount Lavinia - Dambulla: Mount Lavinia - Dambulla- Sigiriya - Mount Lavinia<br/>Air-conditioned Vehicle: Car /Mini Van / Bus/Coach<br/>Starting point:<br/>Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka<br/>Pickup included
From Wadduwa/Kalutara/Bentota
Duration: 15 hours<br/>Wadduwa/Kalutara/Bentota : Wadduwa/Kalutara/Bentota - Dambulla - Sigiriya- Back to starting point.<br/>Air-conditioned Vehicle: Car/Mini Van/Bus/Coach<br/>Starting points:<br/>Bentota, Sri Lanka<br/>Kalutara, Sri Lanka<br/>Wadduwa, Sri Lanka<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Fuel Charges
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Colombo/Negombo/Mount Lavinia/ Wadduwa /Kalutara/Bentota
Air-conditioned vehicle
Bottled water- two 500 ml bottles per person per day
Vehicle Passenger Insurance
English-Speaking Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Early morning leave for Dambulla (approx. 3 ½ hours drive from Colombo) and climb the Rock Cave Temple in Dambulla.
After lunch visit Lions Rock in Sigiriya, a UNESCO world heritage site adorning a palace on its peak.
Afterwards travel back to the starting point.
Golden Rock Cave Temple, Dambulla – The Dambulla cave Temples are another UNESCO World Heritage site which date back to the 1st Century BC. This cave monastery, with its five sanctuaries was first used as a refuge by an ancient king who upon regaining his throne commissioned magnificent images to be carved from the rock. Later kings' mage further improvements and the caves now contain 150 images of the Buddha painted upon the walls.
The hike up to the caves is short but steep (approx. 15-40 mins depending on route taken). At the top you can explore the caves and enjoy spectacular far-reaching views over the surrounding countryside.
2
Sigiriya Rock Fortress –This UNESCO World Heritage Site’ is one of the Sri Lanka’s major attractions and the 5th Century ‘Fortress in the Sky’ which is perhaps the most fantastic single wonder of the Island. A spectacular pillar of rock visible from mils around. It is also known as Lions Rock because of the huge lion that used to stand at the entrance to the Palace on the summit of the 600 –foot high rock.
Historically, the origins of the remains are disputed and though to have been either a royal fortress built under the reign of King Kashyapa (477- 495 AD) or a Buddhist monastery.
On its summit are the foundations of the Royal Palace, Water Tanks to supply water and all other buildings and at the edges of the guardhouses. On one of the stairways the only known ancient work of Sinhala secular painting survived in the form of Frescoes of 21 life sized damsels in all the freshness and delicacy of their original colour. The Water Gardens, Fountain Garden, summerhouse, Boulder gardens and the Caves with the enclosed are should not be missed.
What's not included
- Own arrangement
Entry/Admission - Dambulla Cave Temple
Entry/Admission - Lions Rock Fortress, Sigiriya
Any video/still camera fee to the monuments and places of visit
Tips to guides & restaurants, Tipping is expected.
Any other expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
We pick up in any Hotel or Residence in Bentota
About Negombo
Negombo is a vibrant coastal city in Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, historic Dutch-era architecture, and the bustling fish market. Often called 'Little Rome' due to its significant Catholic population and churches, it offers a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and lively local life.
Top Attractions
Negombo Beach
Negombo Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand along the Indian Ocean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning sunsets.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Negombo Fish Market
The Negombo Fish Market is one of the largest and most vibrant fish markets in Sri Lanka. It's a bustling hub where fishermen sell their daily catch, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood.
Market
1-2 hours
Free (Food purchases extra)
St. Mary's Church
St. Mary's Church is a historic Catholic church in Negombo, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. It's a popular pilgrimage site and a key landmark in the city.
Religious
30-60 minutes
Free
Dutch Canal
The Dutch Canal is a historic waterway built by the Dutch during their colonial period. It's a scenic spot for a leisurely walk or boat ride, offering glimpses of local life and nature.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (Boat rides extra)
Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage
Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage is a peaceful retreat nestled in a lush forest. It's a great place for meditation, hiking, and experiencing the serenity of nature.
Nature
Half day
Free (Donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kottu Roti
A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked with spices and served with gravy.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Seafood Curry
A flavorful curry made with fresh seafood, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, served with rice.
Dinner
Contains seafood and coconut.
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (unless with egg).
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice cooked in meat stock, wrapped in a banana leaf with meat, sambol, and a hard-boiled egg.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and fish.
Popular Activities
Water sports
Boat safaris
Hiking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Visiting temples and churches
Exploring local markets
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rain, making it ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. The city is bustling with tourists during this period.
26-30°C
79-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Negombo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable taxi services or app-based taxis.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km (22 miles)
By train
Negombo Railway Station
By bus
Negombo Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Negombo. They connect the city center with beaches, markets, and other attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Negombo City Center
Negombo Beach
Lunuwila
Day trips
Colombo
35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day
Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, offering a mix of modern and colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.
Kelani River Safari
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
A scenic boat safari along the Kelani River, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.
Muthurajawela Marsh
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A unique wetland ecosystem located near Negombo, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boat rides, and nature walks.
Festivals
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)
Christmas Celebrations • December 25
Pro tips
- Visit the Negombo Fish Market early in the morning to see the fresh catch and experience the bustling atmosphere.
- Take a boat ride along the Dutch Canal to enjoy the scenic views and learn about its history.
- Try local seafood dishes, particularly grilled fish and prawn curry, for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore the historic St. Mary's Church and learn about its significance to the local Catholic community.
- Relax on Negombo Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
