Private Day Tour to Pidurangala, Ritigala and Elephant Safari

Sigiriya , Sri Lanka

Private Day Tour to Pidurangala, Ritigala and Elephant Safari

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8h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This full-day tour offers a perfect combination of scenery, history, heritage, and wildlife. The three visiting places are: 1. the most scenic panoramic view point in the northern half of Sri Lanka, 2. the hidden ruins of the largest early medieval forest monastery, 3. the largest (seasonal) herd of Asian elephants.

Our experienced drivers are known for careful driving. They have been doing these tours for 5 years. Their cultural & historical expertise well-founded.

Available options

Private Day Tour to Pidurangala, Ritigala and Elephant Safari

Pickup included

What's included

Total Parking charges

Knowledgeable English speaking driver

Road Tax & Insurance Tax

4X4 Jeep for half day safari

1000 ml bottled drinking water per person

Air-conditioned vehicle

Passenger Insurance cover 500,000 LKR P.P

Total fuel cost

Replacement vehicle in case of unlucky events - with new driver

Detailed itinerary

The morning is the best time to climb Pidurangala rock, for to reasons. The sunlight illuminates the wonderful large recumbent Buddha in a rock shelter only around 9.00 to 10.00am. Furthermore, the view to the spectacular Sigiriya rock is even better in the morning than in the afternoon. Pidurangala was the Buddhist monastery of the town of Sigiriya around 500 AD. Today, it's an enchanting historical site hidden in the jungle. Though one of the loveliest places on the island and very close to the tourist hub Sigiriya, Pidurangala is not yet overcrowded. It's really a breathtaking and unforgettable place to visit.The morning is the best time to climb Pidurangala rock, for to reasons. The sunlight illuminates the wonderful large recumbent Buddha in a rock shelter only around 9.00 to 10.00am. Furthermore, the view to the spectacular Sigiriya rock is even better in the morning than in the afternoon. Pidurangala was the Buddhist monastery of the town of Sigiriya around 500 AD. Today, it's an enchanting historical site hidden in the jungle. Though one of the loveliest places on the island and very close to the tourist hub Sigiriya, Pidurangala is not yet overcrowded. It's really a breathtaking and unforgettable place to visit.

Stop 2

Not fas from Habarana is the largest hill of the northern half of Sri Lanka. There is one of the ost enigmatic excavated complexes at the eastern slope of the range. It's a somewhat strange kind of architecture, the so-called meditation platforms or double platforms being a type of building that is unique to Sri Lanka. This site was once the largest monastery of a Buddhist fraternity then known as Pansukulikas, whose ambition was to lead a more and austere and reclusive life than other Buddhist monks.Not fas from Habarana is the largest hill of the northern half of Sri Lanka. There is one of the ost enigmatic excavated complexes at the eastern slope of the range. It's a somewhat strange kind of architecture, the so-called meditation platforms or double platforms being a type of building that is unique to Sri Lanka. This site was once the largest monastery of a Buddhist fraternity then known as Pansukulikas, whose ambition was to lead a more austere and reclusive life than other Buddhist monks.

The afternoon safari will take place in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park or Hurula Eco Park, depending on where the most elephants can be seen at the specific day of your excursion. In the northern summer and autumn months, the migrating animals can be seen in large herds, bathing in the evening, an event famously known as Elephant Gathering.

What's not included

Entry fees of visiting site or activities

Tickets of National Park

Extra person in vehicle other than those who booked

Extra excursions not mentioned in the itinerary

Food, meals, other beverages than water

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.