Sigiriya Rock Climb, Village Tour+Cooking Class & Elephant Safari
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Sigiriya Rock Climb, Village Tour & Elephant Safari experience! Start your day by climbing the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, exploring ancient ruins, stunning frescoes, and enjoying panoramic views from the summit.
Next, immerse yourself in authentic Sri Lankan village life with a bullock cart ride and a scenic boat safari on Hiriwadunna Lake. Participate in a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes, followed by a delicious meal made by the locals.
In the afternoon, head to Minneriya National Park for an exciting wildlife safari, where you’ll have the chance to spot herds of elephants, leopards, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat. Your expert guide will enrich the experience with fascinating insights about the history, wildlife, and culture of the area.
This full-day tour offers the perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and adventure—book now for an unforgettable Sri Lankan experience!
Available options
Sigiriya Rock Climb, Village Tour+Cooking Class & Elephant Safari
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Bullock Cart Ride
Sri Lankan Cooking Class
English speaking driver
Lunch
Boat Ride
Air-conditioned vehicle
Safari Jeep with Driver
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
When you book our experience at Sigiriya Rock Fortress, you’ll climb the 200-meter high rock, passing through the Lion’s Gate and exploring ancient frescoes of beautiful women painted on the rock face. You’ll also visit the Mirror Wall, once so polished that the king could see his reflection, and read graffiti from ancient visitors. At the top, you’ll discover the ruins of the royal palace, including courtyards and pools, while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Minneriya National Park and Kandalama Lake. Throughout your journey, your guide will share fascinating historical insights about Sigiriya, its significance, and the story of King Kashyapa. This experience combines history, nature, and adventure, offering an exciting and cultural journey with stunning views and a rewarding climb.
2
The Bullock Cart Ride & Village Tour offers a unique journey through the heart of rural Sri Lanka. Begin with a peaceful bullock cart ride through picturesque villages, where you’ll witness traditional farming methods and the daily lives of local villagers. Along the way, visit ancient temples, experience local crafts, and interact with the friendly community.
Next, enjoy a serene boat ride on Hiriwaduna Lake, allowing you to relax and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding wetlands.
Afterward, participate in a hands-on Sri Lankan Cooking Class, learning to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Savor the delicious lunch made from the dishes you’ve created.
This tour is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture, flavors, and tranquility of Sri Lanka.
3
Minneriya National Park Safari – Wildlife Adventure with Lanka Day Explorers
Embark on an unforgettable safari at Minneriya National Park, a renowned destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Situated in Sri Lanka’s dry zone, this park is famous for its large gatherings of majestic Sri Lankan elephants, as well as spotted deer, wild boars, and numerous bird species. Experience an exciting off-road jeep safari through lush forests and open grasslands, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting away from the crowds. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers, this safari offers a thrilling and eco-friendly adventure in the heart of the wild!
What's not included
Personal expenses
Entry/Admission - Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress
Entry/Admission - Minneriya National Park
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
For travelers who don’t require pickup, we can meet at a convenient location in Habarana Town, such as a nearby hotel or a designated landmark, based on your preference. We can discuss and finalize the exact meeting point in advance to ensure a smooth start to your tour.
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
