How to Plan Your Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip

Are you looking for a day trip that takes you to some of the most fascinating landmarks in Sri Lanka? Look no further than the Sigiriya and Dambulla day trip, departing from Colombo! This full-day tour provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore the historic marvels, geological formations, and bustling marketplaces that make Sri Lanka unique. So, if you’d like to experience the highlights of Sigiriya and Dambulla in one fell swoop, read on for a step-by-step guide on how to plan your tour!

Experience

This tour provides a small group setting for a friendly and unique experience. You’ll get to share your adventure with fellow travelers who are just as interested in diving deeper into Sri Lankan culture and history as you are. Here are some highlights that you’ll experience during your day tour: – Breathtaking views from the rock fortress of Sigiriya – Exploration of the well-preserved cave temples of Dambulla – Demonstration of traditional crafts and purchase of beautiful handicrafts

Getting Ready for the Tour

Before you embark on the day trip from Colombo to Sigiriya, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your comfort and safety during the journey: 1. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. The weather in Sigiriya can be quite hot and humid, so light fabrics and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. 2. Bring a hat and sunscreen. To protect yourself from the strong Sri Lankan sun, it’s important to have a hat and sunscreen on hand. 3. Don’t forget your camera! The stunning views from Sigiriya Rock are a sight you won’t want to miss, so come prepared with a fully charged camera.

Tour Itinerary

Here’s what you can expect to experience during your Sigiriya and Dambulla day trip: – Departure from Colombo: The tour begins with pick-up at your hotel in Colombo in a shared vehicle. – Arrival in Sigiriya: After a three-hour journey by car, you’ll arrive in Sigiriya, where you’ll head directly to Sigiriya Rock. – Sigiriya Rock: Once you reach the base of Sigiriya Rock, climb up the stairs to explore the fascinating archaeological site. Admire numerous paintings of historic queens, princesses, and maids inside the rock fortress. – Lunch: After exploring Sigiriya Rock, take a break for lunch. Enjoy the local cuisine at your own expense. – Traditional Crafts: After lunch, explore some of the traditional crafts of the region such as wood carving and batik textiles with time to purchase souvenirs before departing. – Dambulla Cave Temple: Next, travel to Dambulla to explore the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Discover the magnificent Buddha images and rock paintings showcasing the vibrant history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. – Return to Colombo: After exploring Dambulla, it’s time to head back to Colombo. Sit back and relax in the shared vehicle before being dropped off at your hotel.

Booking Your Tour

To book the Sigiriya and Dambulla day trip, simply click on this link to book the tour here and follow the instructions. Don’t forget to specify the required details like date, time, the number of travelers, etc. before proceeding with your payment.

Book Your Tour Now

The Sigiriya and Dambulla day trip is an excellent way to experience two of the most famous landmarks in Sri Lanka in one exciting day. With convenient transportation from Colombo, everything is taken care of, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily plan your tour and make the most out of your day exploring Sigiriya and Dambulla.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sigiriya

Sigiriya is a small ancient city located in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka. It is known for its magnificent rock fortress, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also home to a number of other historical sites and natural wonders, making it a popular tourist destination. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Sigiriya.

1. What is Sigiriya, and what is its history?

Sigiriya is an ancient city in Sri Lanka that is best known for its rock fortress, which was built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century AD. The fortress was built on top of a massive rock, which rises 200 meters above the surrounding plains. It served as a palace and a fortress for the king and his court for several years, until Kasyapa was defeated by his brother in battle. After Kasyapa’s death, the fortress was abandoned and later used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century AD.

2. How do I get to Sigiriya, and what is the best time to visit?

Sigiriya is located in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka, approximately 4 hours from the capital city of Colombo by car. The closest major city is Dambulla, which is about 20 minutes away by car. The best time to visit Sigiriya is between December and April, when the weather is dry and sunny. During this time, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are mild.

3. What are the main attractions of Sigiriya?

The main attraction of Sigiriya is its rock fortress, which is the highlight of any visit to the city. The fortress is a remarkable feat of engineering, with a series of terraces and gardens that were built on the side of the rock. Other attractions include the ancient city of Sigiriya, which has several ruins and monuments, and the Pidurangala Rock, which provides a stunning view of the Sigiriya rock fortress and the surrounding countryside.

4. What are the opening hours of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress?

The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is open daily from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm. It is recommended that you arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds, as the fortress can get very busy during peak tourist season.

5. What is the entrance fee for the Sigiriya Rock Fortress?

The entrance fee for the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is $30 USD for foreign visitors and 4,500 Sri Lankan Rupees for locals. Children under the age of 12 can enter for free.

6. What should I wear when visiting Sigiriya?

When visiting Sigiriya, it is recommended that you wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This is out of respect for the local culture and customs, as well as for protection from the sun and insects. It is also important to wear sturdy walking shoes, as there is a lot of walking and climbing involved when exploring the fortress and other sites in the area.

7. Is it safe to visit Sigiriya?

Yes, it is safe to visit Sigiriya. The city has a low crime rate and is generally very safe for tourists. However, it is always important to take precautions when traveling, such as not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables and avoiding dark, secluded areas at night.

8. Is there any accommodation available in Sigiriya?

Yes, there are several accommodation options in Sigiriya, ranging from budget homestays to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular options include Sigiriya Village, Hotel Sigiriya, and Jetwing Vil Uyana. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

9. What is the local cuisine in Sigiriya?

The local cuisine in Sigiriya is heavily influenced by Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine. Some of the popular dishes include rice and curry, hoppers (a type of pancake), and string hoppers (a type of noodle). Vegetarian and vegan options are also widely available.

10. What else is there to do in the area?

Aside from the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, there are several other sites and activities to explore in the area. Some of the most popular include visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple, which is a series of ancient Buddhist temples and shrines, exploring the Minneriya National Park, which is home to an abundance of wildlife, and taking a hot air balloon ride over the countryside.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sigiriya

Sigiriya is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka. This ancient rock fortress is located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla. It is known for its historical and archaeological significance, and its scenic beauty. Sigiriya is a place that tourists should not miss when visiting Sri Lanka. Here is a comprehensive guide on how you can spend your time in Sigiriya:

1. Climb to the Top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress

The most exciting activity in Sigiriya is to climb to the top of the rock fortress. The climb is steep and challenging, but the view from the top is worth it. The highest point is at an altitude of 370m/1,214ft, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle landscape. You’ll be able to see the frescoes, the water gardens, and even the sky from this lofty vantage point.

How to reach the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress:

1. Start climbing the rock in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
2. Wear sturdy shoes to climb rock steps and avoid any slips.
3. Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated during the climb
4. Carry your camera or your Smartphone to capture the scenic beauty of the place from the top.

2. Visit the Sigiriya Museum

The Sigiriya Museum is a great place to learn about the history and archaeology of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. It is located at the base of the rock and houses artifacts and exhibits dating back to the 5th century AD. The museum has galleries dedicated to the Water Gardens, Boulder Gardens, Sigiriya Frescoes, and other features of the rock fortress. The museum also has a souvenir shop where you can buy unique Sigiriya-inspired gifts.

Things to keep in mind while visiting the museum:

• The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm.
• Entry fee for foreigners is around $10 and for locals, it is around $2.
• The museum has a guided audio tour that visitors can use to learn more about the exhibits.

3. Explore the Ancient Gardens

The ancient gardens of Sigiriya are a perfect example of Sri Lankan landscaping skills. The gardens are known for their intricate waterworks and fountains. These gardens are divided into three main sections; the water gardens, terrace gardens, and boulder gardens. The water gardens are particularly mystical with their network of pools, streams, and ancient fountains.

Tips for exploring the ancient gardens:

• Take a guide with you to explain the intricate landscapes and features of the gardens.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes or sandals to stroll around the gardens with ease.
• Visit the gardens early in the morning or during sunset to enjoy the views in a serene atmosphere.

4. photograph the famous Sigiriya frescoes

The Sigiriya frescoes are some of the most artistic and mesmerizing cave murals of ancient Sri Lanka. These frescoes depict female figures who are believed to have been heavenly beings. The vivid colors, intricate details, and sheer size of these frescoes are captivating, and they provide a glimpse into the ancient art and culture of Sri Lanka.

Guidelines to follow while photographing the frescoes:

• You must pay an additional fee at the entrance to the frescoes to take photographs (this is standard for most cultural sites in Sri Lanka).
• Flash photography is not allowed as it can damage the frescoes.
• Visitors must not touch the frescoes, and they should stand a reasonable distance away from the murals while taking photographs.
• Visitors are not allowed to photograph the Mirror Wall located nearby, as it contains graffiti that is hundreds of years old.

5. Visit Pidurangala Rock

Pidurangala Rock is located just a few kilometers away from Sigiriya Rock Fortress. While Sigiriya is a paid tourist spot, Pidurangala is a less-known and less-crowded spot where you can climb to the top of the rock for a breathtaking view of Sigiriya.

Things to keep in mind while visiting Pidurangala Rock:

• Wear comfortable shoes during the climb as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
• Start climbing in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
• The entrance fee is around $2.
• Ensure that you take your water bottle with you as there are no vendors on the top of the rock.

Book Your Tour Now

Sigiriya is an amazing tourist spot in Sri Lanka that offers a combination of scenic beauty, historical and archaeological significance, and adventure. By following the above listed five activities, you are guaranteed an unforgettable time. We hope that this guide has been informative and helpful in planning your next trip to Sri Lanka.