How to plan your Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temples day tour from Colombo

If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience during your visit to Sri Lanka, a day trip to Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temples is highly recommended. This tour takes you to the heart of Sri Lanka’s beautiful cultural triangle, and you will get to see some of the most significant historical sites in the country.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plan your day tour from Colombo to Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temples:

Step 1: Book the tour

The first step in planning your tour is to make a booking. You can book your Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temples day tour on Viator’s website. The tour is all-inclusive, and it includes an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, bottled water, and an English-speaking driver/guide. The tour company will pick you up from your hotel in Colombo or from any other location of your choice. The tour starts at 6:00 AM, so be sure to book in advance to secure your spot.

Book the tour here

Step 2: Prepare for your tour

Before embarking on your Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temples day tour, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing and shoes as there will be some walking involved. It is also important to dress appropriately if you plan to visit the temples – this means wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.

What’s included:

– Air-conditioned vehicle
– Lunch / Bottled Water
– English Speaking Driver / Guide.
– Breakfast
– Gratuities

What’s not included:

– Any other expense that is not listed in “inclusions” section.

Step 3: Start your tour

On the day of your tour, the tour company will pick you up from your hotel at 6:00 AM. The journey to Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temples will take approximately three hours, but it is a scenic drive, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the views.

Step 4: Visit Sigiriya Rock

Sigiriya Rock is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous landmarks. The rock is a fascinating archaeological site, and it offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape. Your guide will take you to the summit of the rock, and along the way, you will see ancient ruins, beautiful frescoes, and the famous Lion’s Paw Gate.

Step 5: Explore Dambulla Cave Temples

After visiting Sigiriya Rock, your tour continues to the Dambulla Cave Temples, a complex of five caves that are home to some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful Buddhist murals and statues. The caves are also a UNESCO World Heritage site, and they are located in a stunning setting, surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills.

Step 6: Return to Colombo

After exploring the Dambulla Cave Temples, your tour will conclude, and you will be driven back to your hotel in Colombo. The journey back will take around three hours, and you will arrive back in the city in the late afternoon.

Conclusion

A day tour to Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temples is an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. The tour company will take care of everything from transportation to lunch, so all you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure you will never forget.

Insider’s Guide to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo is the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka, with a rich mix of cultures and history. It is home to many attractions, from beautiful beaches to colonial architecture, and is an excellent base for exploring the rest of the island. In this guide, we’ll cover local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to help you plan your visit.

Local attractions

One of the top attractions in Colombo is the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, located in the heart of the city. This temple features a vast collection of Buddha statues, paintings, and other religious artifacts, and it’s a great place to get a sense of Sri Lankan culture and spirituality.

Another must-visit attraction is the National Museum of Colombo, which is home to a wide range of exhibits on Sri Lankan history and culture. You can learn more about ancient Sri Lanka, colonial history, and contemporary art all under one roof.

If you’re interested in shopping, don’t miss the Pettah Market, one of the largest markets in the city, with an endless array of stalls selling everything from spices to textiles.

Dining spots

Colombo is known for its mouth-watering cuisine, and you can find a variety of dining spots catering to different tastes and budgets. For a high-end dining experience, check out the Ministry of Crab, which specializes in Sri Lankan crab and seafood dishes.

Another excellent spot for foodies is the Good Market, an open-air market that takes place every Saturday. Here you can find a range of fresh produce, healthy snacks, and delicious street food.

For a more casual dining experience, check out the local street food stalls, which can be found all across the city. Some of the best local dishes to try include kottu roti (a tasty stir-fry of chopped roti bread, vegetables, and meat), hoppers (rice flour pancakes), and string hoppers (thin steamed rice noodles).

Cultural experiences

Colombo is a city steeped in culture, and there are many ways to immerse yourself in the local way of life. One of the best ways to do this is to attend a traditional dance performance, where you can see dancers dressed in vibrant costumes perform a variety of traditional dances.

You can also visit cultural landmarks such as the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, an ancient Buddhist temple with a fascinating history. This temple is said to have been built over 2,000 years ago and has survived many battles and invasions over the years.

If you have time, attend a cricket match at the R. Premadasa Stadium, a thrilling experience that gives you a feel for the country’s favorite sport.

Local history

Colombo has a rich history, and there are many ways to learn about it. The city was ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British over the centuries, and you can see remnants of their influence all around the city.

One of the best places to learn about Sri Lanka’s colonial past is the Galle Face Green, a vast open space that was once used by the Dutch for military exercises. Today, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a picnic, fly kites, or watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Another fascinating historical site is the Colombo Dutch Museum, which is housed in a beautiful Dutch colonial building and features exhibits on the Dutch occupation of Sri Lanka.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems in and around Colombo. Visit the Diyatha Uyana, a beautiful landscaped park with a serene lake and plenty of greenery. You can hire a paddle boat and spend a relaxing afternoon on the water.

Another lesser-known attraction is the Wolvendaal Church, a Dutch church that was built in the 18th century. This church has a fascinating history and is well worth a visit.

Finally, if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, consider visiting the Ministry of Crab, a restaurant that specializes in Sri Lankan crab. Not only is the food delicious, but the restaurant is housed in a former Dutch hospital and has a fascinating history.

Conclusion

Colombo is a city full of surprises, from its vibrant culture to its rich history and delicious food. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a fantastic time exploring this fascinating city. Keep this insider’s guide in mind as you plan your visit and get ready to experience all that Colombo has to offer.