Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Cave Temple with Pidurangala Rock Full-Day Private Tour: An Ultimate Guide

If you’re planning to visit Sri Lanka, then Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Cave Temple with Pidurangala Rock Full-Day Private Tour should be on your must-visit list. This tour will take you through some of the most important historical and cultural landmarks of Sri Lanka. From centuries-old Buddhist cave temples to strenuous hikes up to the lion-shaped rock fortress of Sigiriya and Pidurangala, this tour has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Cave Temple with Pidurangala Rock Full-Day Private Tour.

Overview

On this tour, you’ll be visiting four top-rated attractions of Sri Lanka. These include the UNESCO-listed Dambulla, the Sigiriya rock fortress, the Pidurangala rock formation, and the elephant orphanage. The tour is perfect for those who have a limited amount of time but still want to experience Sri Lanka’s rich culture and history. The tour is also ideal for those who want to tick off multiple attractions in a single day, saving them time and effort. The hikes to the top of Sigiriya and Pidurangala are mild to moderate, lasting around two hours each. During the hikes, you’ll be able to take in some incredible views of the surrounding landscape. The tour includes complimentary afternoon tea, private transportation, and hotel transfers.

Attractions Visited

Dambulla

The tour starts with a visit to the ancient city of Dambulla where you’ll see centuries-old cave temples. The cave temples are famous for their stunning frescoes and ancient statues of Buddha. The complex consists of over 80 caves and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Sigiriya

After Dambulla, the tour takes you to the Sigiriya rock fortress. The fortress is famously known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most iconic landmarks of Sri Lanka. The fortress is located on top of a 200-meter-high rock, and it’s famous for its lion-shaped entrance. On top of the rock, you’ll find the ruins of the ancient fortress as well as beautiful gardens and pools.

Pidurangala

After Sigiriya, the tour takes you to the Pidurangala rock formation. Pidurangala is less visited than Sigiriya but offers equally stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hike up to the top of Pidurangala is more strenuous than the hike up to Sigiriya but is worth the effort.

Elephant Orphanage

After the hikes, the tour takes you to the elephant orphanage, where you’ll get to see baby elephants up close. The orphanage is home to over 60 elephants, and visitors can watch them being fed and bathed. Visitors also have the option to take an elephant ride for an additional fee.

Tour Package Inclusions

The tour package includes the following:

• Bottled water
• English-speaking driver/guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Complimentary afternoon tea
• Private transportation
• Lunch

Tour Schedule

The tour starts at 7:00 AM, and travelers are picked up from their hotels. The tour includes a visit to Dambulla, Sigiriya, Pidurangala, and the elephant orphanage. The tour ends with a drop-off back at the hotel in the evening.

Booking the Tour

To book the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Cave Temple with Pidurangala Rock Full-Day Private Tour, visit the Viator website and book the tour online. The link to book the tour is https://www.viator.com/tours/Anuradhapura/Sigiriya-Rock-Fortress-and-Cave-Temple-with-Pidurangala-Rock-Full-Day-Private-Tour/d27018-87020P10?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383.

Book Your Tour Now

The Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Cave Temple with Pidurangala Rock Full-Day Private Tour is an excellent way to experience some of the most iconic landmarks of Sri Lanka. The tour is perfect for those who have a limited amount of time or want to tick off multiple attractions in a single day. The tour includes visits to Dambulla, Sigiriya, Pidurangala, and the elephant orphanage. The hikes to the top of Sigiriya and Pidurangala are mild to moderate, and both offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Book the tour here and start your Sri Lankan adventure today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anuradhapura

1. What is Anuradhapura?

Anuradhapura is a city located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is one of the ancient capitals of the country and is rich in historic and religious significance. Anuradhapura was once a flourishing capital city and was recognized as being one of the greatest monastic cities in the world.

2. What are some of the major attractions in Anuradhapura?

Anuradhapura has a lot of must-see attractions. Here are some of the most prominent:

• The Sacred City of Anuradhapura
• Jetavanaramaya
• Ruwanwelisaya
• Thuparamaya
• Isurumuniya
• Mirisawetiya Stupa
• Abhayagiri Dagoba
• Sri Maha Bodhi Tree

3. What is the best time of year to visit Anuradhapura?

The best time to visit Anuradhapura is between February and October. During these months, the weather is dry and temperatures are comfortable. However, keep in mind that Anuradhapura can get very crowded with tourists during the peak season, which is from June to August. If you prefer to have a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the off-season.

4. How do I get to Anuradhapura?

The easiest way to get to Anuradhapura is to fly to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Anuradhapura. The journey will take around 4-5 hours by road. You can also take a train from Colombo to Anuradhapura, which takes around 5 hours.

5. What is the cuisine like in Anuradhapura?

Anuradhapura is known for its traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, which is a blend of Indian, Arabic, and Malay influences. Some of the most popular dishes in Anuradhapura include rice and curry, hoppers, string hoppers, and kottu roti. In addition, you can find a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as seafood and meat dishes.

6. What are some cultural customs or etiquette I should know about when visiting Anuradhapura?

Here are a few cultural customs and etiquette tips to keep in mind when visiting Anuradhapura:

• Remove your shoes and hats when entering temples or other sacred sites
• Dress conservatively, covering your shoulders and knees
• Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially at religious sites
• Be respectful of local traditions and customs

7. What types of accommodations are available in Anuradhapura?

There is a range of accommodations available in Anuradhapura, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular options include:

• Budget Guesthouses: Clean, basic accommodations with shared or private bathrooms
• Boutique Guesthouses: Stylish, comfortable accommodations with personalized service
• Luxury Hotels: Upscale accommodations with modern amenities and restaurants on-site

8. What is the language spoken in Anuradhapura?

The official language of Sri Lanka is Sinhala, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas like Anuradhapura. It is always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in the local language, such as “hello” and “thank you.”

9. What is the currency in Anuradhapura?

The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You can exchange currency easily at banks or exchange counters, and credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants in Anuradhapura. It is also common to negotiate prices for goods and services with local vendors.

10. Are there any safety concerns when visiting Anuradhapura?

Anuradhapura is generally a safe place to visit, but it is always important to take common-sense precautions. Avoid traveling alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and be aware of your surroundings. It is also a good idea to check with your embassy for any travel advisories or warnings before your trip.

Book Your Tour Now

Anuradhapura is an ancient and historically significant city in Sri Lanka, well worth a visit for those interested in history, culture, and spirituality. By following these travel tips and recommendations, you can make the most of your trip to Anuradhapura and experience everything this fascinating city has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is one of the oldest and most historical cities in Sri Lanka. It served as the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th century B.C. to the 11th century and is home to a multitude of ancient ruins, temples, and monasteries that have significant cultural and architectural value. With its rich heritage, Anuradhapura attracts many tourists every year. If you’re planning to visit this ancient city anytime soon, then here are some tips on how to spend your time wisely.

1. Visit Sri Maha Bodhiya

Sri Maha Bodhiya is a sacred fig tree that has been grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in India. The centuries-old tree is a sacred site to millions of Buddhists around the world and is believed to be the oldest surviving tree in the world. It’s also considered one of the most sacred places in Anuradhapura, and you should not miss it on your visit.

2. Explore the Ruins of Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura boasts of many ancient ruins and monuments that are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Some of the top sites include Abhayagiri Dagoba, Jetavana Dagoba, Rathna Prasadaya, and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple. Take a stroll through these ancient wonders and immerse yourself in the history of Sri Lanka. You can also hire a guide to give you more detailed information about each site.

3. Attend the Annual Perahera Festival

If you’re visiting Anuradhapura in the summer, then be sure to attend the annual procession of the sacred tooth relic, otherwise known as the Perahera festival. It’s a ten-day festival filled with traditional dance performances, parades, music, and fireworks. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s rich culture first-hand and to get a glimpse into the country’s Buddhist traditions.

4. Visit Isurumuniya Temple

Isurumuniya temple is a lesser-known temple located in the heart of Anuradhapura. It’s a beautiful temple that is famous for its rock carvings, including the famous Isurumuniya lovers. The temple also has a small museum that houses several ancient artifacts and relics.

5. Take a Bicycle Tour of Anuradhapura

One of the best ways to explore Anuradhapura is by bike. You can rent a bicycle from several rental shops in the city and explore the ancient ruins and monuments at your own pace. Biking is also an eco-friendly way to tour the city, and it allows you to take in the beautiful scenery that Anuradhapura has to offer.

6. Sample Local Cuisine

Anuradhapura is home to some of the best Sri Lankan cuisine you’ll ever taste. Don’t leave Anuradhapura without sampling some of the local dishes such as hoppers, kottu, and sambol. You can find these dishes at local restaurants and food stalls throughout the city.

7. Watch a Traditional Dance Performance

If you’re interested in traditional Sri Lankan dance, then be sure to watch a performance while in Anuradhapura. There are several dance troupes in the city that perform nightly at various locations. The performances are usually held in open-air venues and are an excellent way to spend an evening in Anuradhapura.

Book Your Tour Now

Anuradhapura is a city rich in history and culture. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique travel experience, Anuradhapura has something to offer. By following these tips, you’ll be able to experience the city’s ancient ruins, local cuisine, and traditional dance performances, making your trip to Anuradhapura an unforgettable one.