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SigiriyaUNESCO sites

Our most recommended Sigiriya UNESCO sites

Sigiriya, Dambulla & Minneriya day tour

1. Sigiriya, Dambulla & Minneriya day tour

Experience the ultimate Sri Lankan adventure with our Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Minneriya National Park one-day tour. Travel in style and comfort with a licensed guide and a climate-controlled vehicle, exploring ancient sites and immersing yourself in the country's natural beauty. Your adventure begins with a visit to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 5th century AD. Enjoy stunning views as you hike to the top of the fortress, passing through ancient frescoes and mirror walls along the way. Next, we'll take you to the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses numerous statues and paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha and his teachings. Admire the serene beauty of these sacred caves and learn about the ancient religious beliefs and practices of Sri Lanka. The tour culminates at the Minneriya National Park, where you'll enjoy an open-air 4x4 jeep safari in search of elephants, the park's most magnificent inhabitants. Get up close and personal with these gentle giants and observe the park's diverse wildlife, including a plethora of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The picturesque landscape includes a beautiful lake surrounded by jungle, making the tour a wonderful opportunity to relax and unwind amidst the breathtaking nature of Sri Lanka. Throughout the tour, you'll have the expert guidance of a licensed guide to provide you with deep insights into Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage, its fascinating history, and diverse wildlife. The tour also includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and a delicious lunch to offer you the most pleasurable memories. This tour package is ideal for travelers seeking an intense cultural and nature experience within a short time. With #srilankabycar, the possibilities for adventure and exploration are endless. Join us on this incredible journey to experience the best of Sri Lanka's rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and wildlife diversity. Book now and discover why Sri Lanka is known as the land of wonder!

Colombo/Negombo: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella 3-Day Trip with Train

2. Colombo/Negombo: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella 3-Day Trip with Train

Discover the natural beauty and inspiring culture of Sri Lanka on a 3-day trip departing from Negombo. Visit landmarks such as Sigiriya, the Dambulla Cave Temple, and the Udawalawe National Park. Enjoy a hotel pickup and drop-off, accommodation, and some meals included. Day 1 : COLOMBO – SIGIRIYA – KANDY Sigiriya Museum This decent museum has a fine diorama of the site, providing an excellent overview and explaining Sigiriya's cultural importance beyond the obvious natural beauty. The theory that Sigiriya was a Buddhist monastery is given here, although the established position that it was a palace or fortress prevails. Dambulla Cave Temple Dambulla cave temple also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla is a World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka, situated in the central part of the country. This site is situated 148 kilometers east of Colombo and 72 kilometers north of Kandy. Dambulla is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress Rising dramatically from the central plains, the enigmatic rocky outcrop of Sigiriya is perhaps Sri Lanka's single most dramatic sight. Near-vertical walls soar to a flat-topped summit that contains the ruins of an ancient civilization, thought to be once the epicenter of the short-lived kingdom of Kassapa, and there are spellbinding vistas across mist-wrapped forests in the early morning. Overnight Stay at Royal Kandyan or Similar Hotel Day 2 KANDY-NUWARA ELIYA- ELLA Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic The golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth houses Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic – a tooth of the Buddha. During puja(offerings or prayers), the heavily guarded room housing the tooth is open to devotees and tourists. However, you don’t actually see the tooth. It’s kept in a gold casket shaped like a dagoba (stupa), which contains a series of six dagoba caskets of diminishing size. As well as the revered main temple, the complex includes a series of smaller temples, shrines and museums. Glenloch Tea Factory Glenloch Tea Factory situated in Nuwara Eliya District at Katukithula on the way to Nuwara Eliya from Kandy. Glenloch tea plantation at Katukithula are been maintain using all the correct method of planting, Soil conversation and Maneuvering. Sri Lanka Become the bets land of most renowned beverage of the world. Sri Lanka silvering water falls process naturally the beauty of nature Ramboda Waterfall Ramboda Falls is 109 m high and 11th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka and 729th highest waterfall in the world. It is situated in Pussellawa area, on the A5 highway at Ramboda Pass. If intrested can be do an Train Ride from Nanu Oya - Ella Overnight Stay Day 3 Ella City Tour – Udawalawe National Park - Colombo Little Adams Peak whether considering the word ‘Little’,it is named after the sacred Adams Peak Nine Arches Bridge The Nine Arch Bridge in Ella is on the Demodara loop and spans 91 meters at a height of 24m. The beautiful nine arches make it a very picturesque spot especially as it is located in a dense jungle and agricultural setting Udawalawe National Park This park is home to several hundred elephants and other rare plants and wildlife We can arrange Drop Colombo Or Negombo or Airport

From Kalutara: Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Full-Day Tour

3. From Kalutara: Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Full-Day Tour

Explore two of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO-listed highlights on a privately guided day trip to Dambulla and the Sigiriya Rock from Kalutara. You will be starting your tour at 0600 hrs from your hotel in Colombo, where you will be picked up your chauffeur. Ensure that you bring a packed breakfast with you, if you are unable to have your meal at the hotel. The first stop on your itinerary will be the Dambulla Cave Temple which you will reach by approximately 1000 hrs. (Travel Time 4 to 4 ½ hrs) View Sri Lanka’s countryside and villages as you journey to the atmospheric Dambulla Cave Temple (Entrance Fee Per Person USD 11), a Cliffside cave complex packed with Buddha images and frescoes. Enter the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Look at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King and the Great New Monastery. See the giant golden Buddha Statue just a little distance outside the cave complex. At approximately 1230 hrs you will be have lunch at a place of your choice (At your own expense) and reach Sigiriya by 1400 hrs and visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress. (Travel Time 35 to 45 mins) Rising from the central plains, the iconic rocky outcrop of Sigiriya is perhaps Sri Lanka's single most dramatic sight. Near-vertical walls soar to a flat-topped summit that contains the ruins of an ancient civilization, thought to be once the epicenter of the short lived kingdom of Kassapa. Climb the 5th century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where the King Kasyapa ruled. Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, ' the Lion Rock'. View the beautiful unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns. Walk through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past. You will be finishing the tour at 1700 hrs and returning to your hotel in Kalutara by approximately 2200 hrs. En-route you may stop at Restaurant at your choice and have dinner.

Sri Lanka: Five-day Multi-City Sightseeing Tour

4. Sri Lanka: Five-day Multi-City Sightseeing Tour

Explore the best of Sri Lanka with this tour to the Golden Temple of Dambulla, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, rolling tea plantations in Ella, the chance to see wild elephants in the Udawalawa National park. Day 1 - Be welcomed by your guide at the Colombo International Airport where your guide will take you to your hotel in Colombo. Day 2 - Journey from Colombo to Sigiriya after eating a filling breakfast. Visit the Golden Temple of Dambulla, the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Relax before heading to the ancient rock fortress Sigiriya before having dinner and staying at a 4-star hotel in Sigiriya. Day 3 - Travel to Kandy after a hearty breakfast to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic which holds the most important Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka. Take some time to unwind in your hotel before proceeding to see the amazing flora at the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. Eat dinner and stay overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kandy. Day 4 - Next, have a full breakfast before heading to Ella to walk among the lush tea plantations. Learn more about the colonial history of Sri Lanka and take in stunning landscape views. Return to your hotel in Ella for dinner and to rest. Day 5 - After breakfast, drive to Udawalawa National park where you can spot elephants in their natural habitat.

From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Full-Day Private Tour

5. From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Full-Day Private Tour

Explore two of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO-listed highlights on a privately guided day trip to Dambulla and the Sigiriya Rock from Colombo. Start with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Colombo. Make your first stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple. View Sri Lanka’s countryside and villages as you journey to the atmospheric Dambulla Cave Temple, a Cliffside cave complex packed with Buddha images and frescoes. Enter the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Look at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King, and the Great New Monastery. See the giant golden Buddha Statue just a little distance outside the cave complex. Go to Sigiriya to visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climb the 5th century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where King Kassapa ruled. Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, the Lion Rock. View the beautiful unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns. Go through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past.

Dambulla:Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Dambulla Cave Temple tour

6. Dambulla:Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Dambulla Cave Temple tour

06.00 am: Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel, and you'll be heading to the captivating destination of Sigiriya. 09.00am: Prepare to be amazed as you climb and explore the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This ancient marvel, built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century, stands proudly 660 feet high. Located in Sri Lanka's central province, near Dambulla, in the northern Matale district, this fortress is often referred to as the Lion's Rock or Sinhagiri. Ascend the 1200 steps to the top and marvel at this Unesco World Heritage Site, considered one of the Wonders of the World. The ingenious water garden irrigation and the remarkable lion carving at the entrance, which is still well-preserved, showcase the advanced architectural and engineering skills of the time. The well-designed ramparts and moats surrounding the rock serve as a testament to the fortress's formidable defense. 12.00 pm: After the Sigiriya adventure, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. 13.00: Next, you'll visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The rock rises 160 meters above the surrounding area and houses over 80 caves. Among these caves, five contain fascinating statues and murals that depict the life of Gautama Buddha. The caves boast 153 Buddha statues, three Sri Lankan king statues, and statues of various gods and goddesses, including Vishnu and Ganesha. The stunning murals, covering an area of 2,100 square meters, add to the temple's grandeur. 14.30: With the Dambulla Cave Temple exploration complete, it's time to head back to your hotel, where you started this incredible journey. The memories of your day spent exploring the historical wonders of Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the cultural richness of Dambulla Cave Temple will surely stay with you for a lifetime.

Discover the Best of Sri Lanka in 2 Days

7. Discover the Best of Sri Lanka in 2 Days

*Day 1: Waterfall Ravana, Scenic Train Trip, and Nuwara Eliya Tea Plantations* - Morning: Kickstart your adventure with a visit to the breathtaking Ravana Falls in Ella. Capture stunning photos amidst nature's splendor. - Afternoon: Embark on a picturesque train journey from Hali ela to Ella, reveling in the beauty of lush tea plantations and charming villages. - Mid-day: Don't miss the enchanting Nine Arches Bridge, an architectural gem along the railway route. - Late Afternoon: Hike to the summit of Mini Adam's Peak, where panoramic views of the countryside and a captivating sunset await. - Evening: Check-in at the hotel in Ramboda ,Nuwara Eliya fondly known as "Little England." Explore the historic Old Post Office with its colonial charm. - Night: Experience the art of tea-making with a guided tour of a tea plantation and factory. Savor the exquisite taste of freshly brewed Ceylon tea. *Day 2: Ambuluwawa Tower, Ayurveda Spice Garden, Ancient Golden Temple, and Majestic Sigiriya* - Morning: Soak in the beauty of Ambuluwawa Tower in Gampola, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes. - Late Morning: Immerse yourself in traditional healing at an Ayurveda Spice Garden, where ancient herbal remedies rejuvenate your senses. Then marvel at the grandeur of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with ancient cave temples and sacred statues. - Evening: Conquer the iconic Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock. Climb to the summit and be awed by the ancient fortress and panoramic vistas. - Departure: Bid farewell to this enriching 2-day tour, carrying cherished memories of Sri Lanka's natural beauty and cultural wonders.

From Hikkaduwa : to Sigiriya & Dambulla One Day Tour

8. From Hikkaduwa : to Sigiriya & Dambulla One Day Tour

Explore two of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO-listed highlights on a privately guided day trip to Dambulla and the Sigiriya Rock from Hikka. You start your tour at 06.00 hrs from your hotel in Hikka, where your chauffeur picks you up. Ensure that you bring a packed breakfast with you if you are unable to have your meal at the hotel. The first stop is climbing the 5th-century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where King Kasyapa ruled (Entrance Fee Per Person USD 30). Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, 'the Lion Rock'. View the beautiful unfading murals that bring Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns. Walk through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past. Your itinerary includes the Sigirya Rock, which you will reach by approximately 10.00 hrs. (Travel Time 3 to 3 ½ hrs) After viewing Sigiriya, at approximately 12.30 hrs, you will have lunch at a place of your choice (At your own expense) or take a village tour (entrance Fee Per Person USD 20, adding four village activities & Lunch). Then, you will reach Dambulla Cave Temple by 14.00 hrs and visit the Cave Temple. (Travel Time 35 to 45 mins) Near-vertical walls soar to a flat-topped summit that contains the ruins of an ancient civilization, thought to be once the epicenter of the short-lived kingdom of Kassapa. View Sri Lanka’s countryside and villages as you journey to the atmospheric Dambulla Cave Temple, a Cliffside cave complex packed with Buddha images and frescoes. Enter the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Look at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King, and the Great New Monastery. See the giant golden Buddha Statue just a little distance outside the cave complex. You will finish the tour at 16.00 hrs and return to your hotel in Hikka by approximately 21.00 hrs. En-route, you may stop at a restaurant of your choice and have dinner.

World Heritage “Golden Triangle” Day Tour

9. World Heritage “Golden Triangle” Day Tour

Our adventure begins in Dambulla, a town nestled in the north-central region of Sri Lanka. Here, we will discover the renowned Dambulla Rock Cave Buddhist Temple, an awe-inspiring complex perched on a massive rock formation. Ascend the steps to enter a sacred realm adorned with ancient murals and towering statues of Lord Buddha. The rock caves serve as a testament to the devotion and artistic brilliance of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmen. The vibrant frescoes depict vivid scenes from Buddhist mythology and provide a window into the past, where spirituality and art intersect. Next, we venture to Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, and an archaeological treasure trove. As we explore this Unesco-listed site, marvel at the remarkably preserved ruins that transport you back in time to the grandeur of the bygone era. Admire the intricately carved stone structures of the Gal Vihara, including the famous colossal standing Buddha statues. Discover the royal palaces, sacred temples, and intricately designed bathing pools that once thrived in this flourishing city. The impressive archaeological remains of Polonnaruwa offer a glimpse into the advanced civilization and architectural prowess of ancient Sri Lanka. Continuing our journey, we arrive at Sigiriya, a majestic rock fortress known as the "Lion Rock." Ascending this Unesco World Heritage site is a truly unforgettable experience. Climb the staircases that wind around the rock's perimeter, passing intricately designed water gardens, frescoes, and the remnants of the iconic Lion's Paw entrance. As you reach the summit, be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, a testament to the strategic brilliance of King Kasyapa, who built his palace atop this formidable rock. Sigiriya is a testament to ancient engineering, artistic finesse, and the indomitable human spirit. Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides will regale you with historical anecdotes, providing insights into the significance of these sites and the civilizations that once flourished here. Learn about the rise and fall of kingdoms, the spiritual beliefs that shaped the culture, and the legends that surround these architectural marvels. As we explore these Unesco World Heritage sites, you will have ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs, immersing yourself in the beauty and mystique of each location. Witness the interplay of light and shadows on ancient ruins, the intricate details of centuries-old artwork, and the natural beauty that surrounds these cultural landmarks. Our journey through Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya will leave you with a profound appreciation for Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage. You will carry with you memories of majestic rock caves, ancient temples, and the echoes of a glorious past. Join us on this unforgettable tour and discover the captivating stories etched into the stone and soul of Sri Lanka.

Colombo: 8-Day Private Cultural Triangle & Wildlife Trip

10. Colombo: 8-Day Private Cultural Triangle & Wildlife Trip

Discover the best of Sri Lanka on an 8-day private trip to the Cultural Triangle. Experience game drives in Wilpattu and Minneriya National Park, visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura, and experience the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple complex. Day 1:Get picked up from Colombo, Negombo, or Bandaranaike International Airport and admire the beautiful scenery of Sri Lanka's North Western Province as you drive to Chilaw. Arrive in the coastal town of Chilaw, known for its stretching beaches and tall coconut trees, and spend the night in a 4-star hotel. Day 2:Wake up early in the morning with the sunrise and drive to Wilpattu National park. Spend a full day exploring one of the largest and oldest parks in Sri Lanka, world-renowned for its leopard population. Benefit from the expertise of the safari team as you go on a game drive through the park, observing rare animals in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for leopards, mongooses, and water buffalo. Leave the national park and set off for Anuradhapura, one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka. Check into your 4-star hotel when you arrive in the city. Day 3:Take a little more time to relax in bed this morning, before getting up for a delicious breakfast, traditionally made up of kiribath, hoppers, and pani pol. Depart from the hotel and set off into the ancient city of Anuradhapura, making a visit to the well-preserved ruins of a Sinhala civilization. In the afternoon, climb up to Mihintale, once a dense jungle that was reserved by the royals as a hunting ground. Learn why the mountain peak is now referred to as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, as you enter a Buddhist monastery. Return to your hotel in Anuradhapura and settle down for the evening. Day 4: Tuck into another Sri Lankan breakfast in the morning and get ready for an adventure to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City. Arrive at the archaeological site and discover the monumental ruins of the stunning garden city, created in the 12th century. Drive on from Polonnaruwa, making a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress of great historical significance. Rest for the night at a 4-star hotel in Sigiriya. Day 5: Enjoy a late breakfast, then be driven to a rural village for an authentic experience of traditional Sri Lankan life. Take in scenic views on a short walk, before getting into a bullock cart for a ride across the countryside. Arrive at a picturesque lake and trade off the wheels for a sail as you cruise across the waters on a catamaran tour. Disembark from the boat in the afternoon and get driven to Minneriya National Park. See Sri Lankan wildlife in a different light on an evening game drive, with "oohs" and "ahhs" as Asian elephants stomp by the 4x4 in the sunset. Return to your 4-star hotel in Sigiriya. Day 6: Finish off your breakfast and make your way to Dambulla. Be absolutely blown away as you delve into the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple complex. Explore this cave temple complex, the largest and best-preserved in Sri Lanka, containing five caves with 157 statues and over 2000 meters of intricately painted walls and ceilings. Make a visit to Pidurangala, the tallest mountain in the country, and view the Buddhist monastery settled upon the slopes. Learn about the history of the monastery and how monks have made use of the sacred site. Return to your 4-star hotel in Sigiriya. Day 7: Try something new this morning at breakfast and fuel up for your day. Leave Sigiriya and drive to Matale to observe a wood carving demonstration at a local factory. Discover more local traditions as you make a visit to the spice garden. Watch a live cooking demonstration with fresh spices and learn about how they are grown. Join a guided tour of Kandy in the afternoon, home to many tea plantations, sacred Buddhist sites, and biodiverse rainforest land. Finish your tour and check into a 4-star hotel in Kandy for the night. Day 8:Think back on your memories of the trip over a final Sri Lankan breakfast. Say goodbye to your new friends and helpful guides, before being transferred back to your accommodations.

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Frequently asked questions about Sigiriya UNESCO sites

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What people are saying about Sigiriya

The driver (Kenneth) was very accommodative and managed our tight schedule very well. He even went the extra mile and helped us to see more than what we had initially agreed — with his help we were able to visit the Ranweli spice garden, which was the cherry on top.

The tour was excellent. I liked a lot the hotel in Sigirya and in Colombo. Keerthe, the driver, was very nice, respectful and always on time.