2-Day Sigiriya Cultural Triangle: Polonnaruwa, Dambulla & Safari

Sigiriya , Sri Lanka

2-Day Sigiriya Cultural Triangle: Polonnaruwa, Dambulla & Safari

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About this experience

Discover the ultimate Sri Lankan adventure with our 2-Day Cultural Triangle Tour, perfectly blending ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling wildlife encounters. Begin with a magical sunrise at Pidurangala Rock, capturing panoramic views of Sigiriya Fortress emerging from the morning mist. Wander through the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa, exploring majestic palaces, temples, and intricate Buddha statues while learning stories of kings and empires from your expert guide. Experience the excitement of a Minneriya Safari, witnessing wild elephants in their natural habitat. On day two, explore the mystical Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka’s largest rock temple complex adorned with vibrant murals, then climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress to enjoy a spectacular sunset over the lush jungle. This private tour combines comfort, culture, adventure, and photography-perfect moments, offering an immersive, experience that showcases the very best of Sri Lanka’s heritage and wildlife.

Available options

2-Day Full Experienc

2-Day Full Experience: Pidurangala Sunrise, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla Cave Temple, Safari, Sigiriya Sunset, Private Vehicle & Guide<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (Sigiriya, Habarana area)

Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver

Bottled water

Privet safari Jeep with Expert Deriver Guide

What's not included

Entrance tickets Sigiriya & Pidurangala

Entrance tickets Polonnaruwa ancient City and Dambulla cave Temple

Entrance tickets Minneriya / Ecopark National Park

Meals and personal expenses

Accommodation (can be arranged upon request)

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.