Sigiriya and Dambulla Private Full-Day Guided Tour
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Sigiriya and Dambulla Private Full-Day Guided Tour

Active
(4 reviews)
11h - 13h
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

Sigiriya and Dambulla are UNESCO recognized heritage sites and major tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. The city of Dambulla 148 km far from Colombo. The iconic site in Dambulla is its cave temple which is the largest, best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka consisting of the ancient paintings and Buddha statues that implicate Lord Buddha’s life.

Passing this temple away to another 20 km, you will encounter the magnificent Sigiriya Lion Rock. This is arguably the most important site you should not miss when you visit Sri Lanka. The origin of Sigiriya runs back to thousands of years as it served as a Royal Palace to one of the ancient Kings in Sri Lanka. Sigiriya Rock Fortress in Sri Lanka is a real wonder, one of the world’s less known curiosities which is a gigantic column of rock rising 200m (660 ft) from the forest pains below.

Available options

Starting from negombo

Adventure tour <br/>Privet <br/>Duration: 12 hours<br/>water bottle <br/>Negombo to sigiriya <br/>Car or van<br/>Pickup included

Stating From bentota /wadduwa

luxury adventures<br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Comfortable Van : With A/C / Parking / Toll fee / Refreshment <br/>Pickup included

Starting from Kandy

luxury adventures<br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>comfortable van: with air condition including parking and expressway toll fee<br/>Pickup included

Starting From Colombo

luxury adventures<br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Colombo to Dhambulla /Sigiriya<br/>Comfortable Van : With A/C / Parking / Toll fee / Refreshment <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The Ancient City of Sigiriya holds the ruins of former Sinhalese capital, including a rock fortress and palace. At the end of the 5th century, this enormous complex was constructed by Prince Kasyapa. The garden and palace were built by King Kasyapa. After his death, it was again a monastery complex up to the 14th century. Knowing the inevitable return of Mogallana, Kasyapa is said to have built his palace on the summit of Sigiriya as a fortress and pleasure palace. Mogallana finally arrived and declared war. Chronicles say that the battle-elephant changed course to take a strategic advantage, but the army misinterpreted the movement as the King, prompting the army to abandon the king altogether. Moggallana returned the capital to Anuradapura, converting Sigiriya into a monastery complex. The beautifully and elaborately landscaped water gardens that contain a complex water distribution system! A superb view of the Gardens could be had from halfway up the rock.

2

Travel by oxen cart to a rural Sri Lankan village and experience village life on this tour. Accompanied by a guide, explore the village and take a catamaran ride on the lake. Visit a local farm and learn about cultivation techniques. Watch a traditional cooking demonstration and enjoy the Sri Lankan meal for lunch.

3

Dambulla is situated in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is a town built around a vast isolated rock mass and a World Heritage City declared by UNESCO. Dambulla Rock Temple is the largest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka. The rock towers 160m over the surrounding plains. Major attractions are spread over 5 caves, which contain statues and paintings. These paintings and statues are related to Lord Buddha and his life. The murals cover an area of 2.100 m². Depictions in the walls of the caves include Buddha's temptation by demon Mara and Buddha's first sermon. Dambulla is a unique and important historical site because of the amalgamation of the material from many eras. Close to Dambulla deep inside the jungle there is the Iron Wood Forest and the largest Rose Quartz Mountain Range in South Asia. The site had been declared as a human sanctuary by King Dappula in 10 century AD.

4

Minneriya National Park, also known as Minneriya Safari Park Sri Lanka established on August 12, 1997 (Gazette Notification No. 988/4), is one of Sri Lanka's most visited national parks in Sri Lanka which is an ideal destination for wildlife holidays & family adventure trip in Sri Lanka. Minneriya National Park covers an area of 8,890 hectares including the former Minneriya - Giritale Sanctuary. Minneriya - Giritale Nature Reserve (Blocks I, II, III, and IV) and Sigiriya Sanctuary. Minneriya Nationa park located in the district of Polonnaruwa (Pulathisi Pura) of North Central Province Sri Lanka middle of Sri Lanka's cultural triangle, is well known for its amazing elephant gathering which is one of Asia's best animal experiences. Further Minneriya National Park is one of the 70 IBA - Important Bird Areas of Sri Lanka which is recommended place for bird watching tours in Sri Lanka.

What's not included

Any Other Services Not Specified Above
Expenses of Personal Nature
Entrance ticket

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
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

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

Adults
Age 12-90
1
Childs
Age 1-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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