Visit the historic rock fortress of Sigiriya and explore the large cave temple complex of Dambulla on a full-day trip from Colombo with private driver. See ancient rock art and Buddha images.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible—book your spot and pay nothing today. Learn more
Duration 10 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Driver: English
Pickup included: Pickup from hotels in Colombo.

Highlights

Get stunning views from the rock fortress of Sigiriya
Explore the well-preserved cave temples of Dambulla
Watch traditional craft demonstrations and purchase amazing souvenirs

Full description

Depart Colombo and travel by a shared vehicle, in a small group, to the city of Sigiriya, and head directly to Sigiriya Rock on arrival. Gaze in awe at the massive column of rock that, according to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle The Culavamsa, was selected by King Kasyapa as the site of his new capital. Admire numerous paintings of historic queens, princesses, and maids inside the rock fortress before getting a break for lunch at your own expense. Then, explore some of the traditional crafts of the region, such as wood carving and batik textiles, with time to purchase souvenirs before departing. Start the journey back towards Colombo via Dambulla to explore the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Discover the magnificent Buddha images and rock paintings of vivid colors and different shapes, painted from around the 2nd century B.C. up to the 18th-century Kandyan era.

Includes

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transportation in air conditioned vehicle (car/van/bus)
English-speaking driver
Bottled water

Food and drinks, unless specified
Optional gratuities
Entrance fees

Not suitable for

Pregnant women
People with back problems
Wheelchair users

Covid-19 precautions

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You must bring your own headphones
You are required to bring and wear a mask
You must fill out a travel information form
You will receive a mandatory temperature check

Important information

What to bring

Passport or ID card
Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses
Sun hat

Not allowed

Pets
Luggage or large bags

Know before you go

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
All visitors to Buddhist and Hindu temples are expected to remove their shoes and hats. Shoulders and knees should also be covered
A moderate amount of walking is involved
The duration of the transfers is approximate and will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 71 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.8/5
Transportation
4.6/5
Value for money
4.3/5
Safety
4.1/5

Sort by:

If it wasn't for an air-conditioned car, it would be much harder to endure a trip. The gentlemen safely drove us and brought us back. They bought a bottle of water. In Sergey, admission is $ 30 extra. A tip for the guide must be given at the end. Overall okay.

March 31, 2022

We had a very good experience. Everything went smooth - driver arrived on time and our tour to Dambulla Temple, Sigiriya Rock and a Spice Garden was successful and fun. We were also taken to breakfast and lunch and our special requests regarding places to eat were welcomed and accepted. Definitely recommended.

February 24, 2022

I booked the tour very last minute but they still showed up on time. I enjoyed the visit to all the locations, they were great places to visit. I was offered the Elephant safari cause there was still some time left before having to go back to Colombo but declined. Driver was very polite and spoke good English - even helped me getting money exchanged. I definitely enjoyed my day.

February 22, 2022

Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip from Colombo

Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip from Colombo

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