How to Plan Your 3-Day Trip to Sigiriya Kandy Ella Udawalawe with Train Ride in Dambulla

Looking for an unforgettable Sri Lanka experience? Make sure to check out this amazing 3-day tour that will take you to the stunning destinations of Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, and Udawalawe. This tour is perfect for those who love nature, history, and adventure. You will get to climb a lush rock fortress, visit an ancient temple, stroll through tea plantations, and explore a national park with guaranteed elephant sightings. And to top it all off, you will also get to enjoy a scenic train ride through the picturesque countryside. So, if you’re ready to start planning your dream trip, here is everything you need to know.

Day 1: Visit Sigiriya and Kandy

Your tour starts in Colombo, where you will be picked up by a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and driven to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you will get to climb the famous Sigiriya Rock, which rises 200 meters above the surrounding plains. The climb is a bit steep, but the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. After Sigiriya, your next destination is Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Here, you will visit the Temple of the Tooth, which is considered one of the holiest shrines for Buddhists. The temple houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha, which is believed to have been brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD. You will then spend the night in Kandy, where you can enjoy some traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and relax in your comfortable accommodation.

Day 2: Explore Ella and its Tea Plantations

On the second day of your tour, you will head to Ella, a charming small town nestled in the hills of Sri Lanka. Here, you will be able to explore the lush green tea plantations that are a magnet for tea lovers and anyone who is interested in the history and culture of tea production. One of the highlights of the day will be a visit to Little Adam’s Peak, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You can also visit the Nine Arch Bridge, an iconic railway bridge that spans a deep valley and offers stunning photo opportunities. After a long day of exploring, you will spend the night in Ella in a comfortable hotel where you can rest and recharge for the next day’s adventure.

Day 3: Enjoy Elephant Sightings at Udawalawe National Park

The final day of your tour will take you to Udawalawe National Park, which is the only place in the world where an elephant sighting is guaranteed on every game drive. This park is home to over 500 wild elephants that roam freely among the grasslands, forests, and wetlands. You will enjoy a thrilling jeep safari through the park, where you can see not just elephants but also leopards, crocodiles, monkeys, and a wide variety of bird species. After the safari, you will have the option to visit the Elephant Transit Home, a rehabilitation center for orphaned and injured elephants. To cap off your amazing Sri Lanka tour, you will take a scenic train ride from Udawalawe to Colombo, where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the countryside and the ocean along the way. Now that you know what to expect from this amazing tour, it’s time to book your spot and start packing your bags. You can book the tour here and enjoy a hassle-free Sri Lanka adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!

Dambulla: Frequently Asked Questions

Dambulla is a city in Sri Lanka famous for its ancient rock temple and cave complex. The UNESCO World Heritage site attracts thousands of visitors every year, but many have questions about the city before their visit. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions asked about Dambulla.

1. What is Dambulla?

Dambulla is a city located in the Matale district of Sri Lanka. It is home to the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. What is the Dambulla Cave Temple?

The Dambulla Cave Temple is a complex of cave temples located in the city of Dambulla. The temple is also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla and contains over 150 Buddha statues and paintings. The temple is considered one of the best-preserved cave temples in Sri Lanka and is a must-visit attraction for those traveling to Sri Lanka.

3. How do I get to Dambulla?

Dambulla is located in the central province of Sri Lanka, and the most common way to get there is by car or van. You can also take a train to the nearby city of Kandy and then take a bus or taxi to Dambulla. There are also direct bus services available from major cities such as Colombo, Kandy, and Anuradhapura.

4. What is the best time to visit Dambulla?

The best time to visit Dambulla is between November and April when the weather is dry and sunny. This is the peak tourist season, and the temples can get crowded. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit during the off-season months of May to October.

5. Are there any entry fees to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple?

Yes, there is an entry fee to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple. The fee is around 1500 Sri Lankan rupees per person and includes entry to all of the caves within the temple complex.

6. What should I wear when visiting Dambulla?

It is important to dress appropriately when entering the Dambulla Cave Temple. Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering any of the cave temples.

7. What other attractions are there in Dambulla?

Apart from the Dambulla Cave Temple, there are several other attractions in Dambulla, such as the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Minneriya National Park, which is famous for elephant sightings.

8. Is it safe to travel to Dambulla?

Yes, Dambulla is a generally safe city to travel to. However, it is always important to take necessary precautions, such as not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables and being aware of your surroundings.

9. What is the currency used in Sri Lanka?

The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). It is recommended to have some cash on hand when traveling to Dambulla as many local vendors do not accept credit cards.

10. What are some local dishes to try in Dambulla?

Some of the local dishes to try in Dambulla include kottu roti, hoppers, and fish curry. These dishes are readily available in most restaurants and food stalls in the city.

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Dambulla is a beautiful city in Sri Lanka that is famous for its ancient temple complex. With its rich history and cultural significance, there is no doubt that Dambulla should be on every traveler’s itinerary when visiting Sri Lanka. By following these FAQs, travelers can ensure that they have a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to this fascinating city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Dambulla

Dambulla is a small town situated in the central province of Sri Lanka. It is known for its historic caves and temples that have been carved out of rock. Dambulla has become a popular tourist destination over the years due to its historical and cultural importance. If you are planning a visit to Dambulla, here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist.

1. Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is the most prominent attraction in the town. The temple complex consists of five caves that have been adorned with paintings and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha. The caves also house over 150 Buddha statues that range from small to giant-sized. When visiting the temple, it is important to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the caves. Admission fees are applicable, and guides are available to provide you with a detailed history of the temple.

2. Admire the Sigiriya Rock Fortress

The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located approximately 12 km away from Dambulla. The fortress was built in the 5th century AD by King Kasyapa and is considered one of the most important historical monuments in Sri Lanka. The fortress sits atop a 200-metre high rock and consists of several levels, including a royal palace and a network of gardens and moats. To reach the top, visitors have to climb a series of staircases that lead to the summit. The view from the top is breathtaking, and it is a popular spot to watch the sunset.

3. Go on a Safari at Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park is located approximately 20 km away from Dambulla and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and sloth bears. The park is mostly made up of dry evergreen forests and is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can go on a jeep safari to explore the park and witness the animals in their natural habitat. It is recommended to visit the park during the dry season (June to September) when the elephant population gathers around the Minneriya Lake to quench their thirst.

4. Explore the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa is an archaeological site that was once the capital city of Sri Lanka in the 11th and 12th centuries. The city is home to several ancient ruins and monuments, including the Gal Vihara, a rock temple featuring four statues of Buddha. Visitors can explore the city by foot or by bicycle, and guided tours are also available. It is recommended to visit the city early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.

5. Learn About Local Culture at a Spice Garden

Sri Lanka is known for its spices, and a visit to a spice garden in Dambulla is a great way to learn about local agriculture and culture. Visitors can go on a guided tour of the garden and see a variety of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves being grown and harvested. At the end of the tour, visitors can purchase spices and other souvenirs from the on-site store. It is important to note that some spice gardens may charge an entrance fee or require visitors to purchase a minimum amount of products.

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Dambulla is a town steeped in history and culture and offers a variety of activities for tourists. From visiting ancient caves and temples to going on a wildlife safari, there is something for everyone in Dambulla. Make sure to plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time in this beautiful Sri Lankan town.