Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Tour from Kandy
Active
9h
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
Itinerary for Sigiriya & Dambulla Day Tour
Stop 1: Sri Muthumariamman Temple, Matale
Visit to the Sri Muthumariamman Hindu Temple in Matale.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop 2: Dambulla Cave Temple
Explore the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop 3: Sigiriya – The Ancient Rock Fortress
Sigiriya, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. Visit the ancient Lion's Rock Fortress, famous for its stunning frescoes, water gardens, and impressive views.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop 4: Pidurangala Rock Hike (Optional)
If you prefer a more budget-friendly and less strenuous alternative to Sigiriya, take a hike up Pidurangala Rock.
Duration 1.5hrs
Available options
Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Tour from Kandy
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Complimentary visit to a spice garden and discover the secrets of Sri Lanka's aromatic treasures
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Snacks
USD 4 Voucher for Delicious Sri Lankan lunch with variety of rice and curries,
Detailed itinerary
1
Witness the vibrant Muthumariamman Hindu Temple, a striking landmark with intricately decorated towers known as Gopurams. These colorful sculptures and detailed designs are a testament to the island’s Hindu cultural influence
2
Visit Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave-temple complex, a revered Buddhist site for over 2,200 years. Admire intricate mural paintings covering 2,100 m² and marvel at 157 statues that reflect Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
3
Stop 3
Explore the architectural marvel of Sigiriya, renowned for its advanced irrigation system and artistic water gardens. This iconic fortress showcases exceptional engineering and design from centuries past.
4
Experience a serene hike up Pidurangala Rock, located near Sigiriya. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and a spectacular perspective of Sigiriya Rock from the summit.
What's not included
Entrance fee for Sigirya Rock fortress is US$30 Per person (SAARC Countries US$15)
Entrance Ticket for Dambulla Cave Temple is US$7
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Important information
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 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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
