Central Sri Lanka’s ancient cities of Dambulla and Polonnaruwa pack a powerful historical punch. The well-organized day tours from Kandy and Negombo ($224-250) offer good value, covering all essentials – transport, tickets, and expert guides. We’re particularly impressed with tours featuring the remarkable Dambulla Cave Temple (a UNESCO site) and Polonnaruwa’s majestic Royal Palace complex. The best offerings combine these highlights with the awe-inspiring Sigiriya fortress and authentic village experiences. For active travelers who appreciate ancient architecture and local culture, these excursions hit all the right notes. Let’s explore our favorite tour options in detail.
Key Points
- Dambulla day tours from Kandy and Negombo offer visits to the renowned Dambulla Cave Temple, known for its ancient rock carvings.
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City tours showcase the Royal Palace, Buddha statues, colossal reclining Buddha, and rock-carved Buddhas of Gal Vihara.
- Tours include private transportation, professional guides, and optional activities like safari jeep rides for a comprehensive cultural experience.
- Pricing for day tours ranges from $33.62 to Kč 14,365 per group, with flexible cancellation policies and pay-later options available.
- Participants should be prepared for physical activities like hiking, and adhere to dress code and behavioral guidelines during the tours.
Dambulla & Polonnaruwa Ancient City: Day Tour From Kandy
This day tour from Kandy provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of two renowned ancient cities in Sri Lanka – Dambulla and Polonnaruwa.
Priced from $224.28 per person, the tour includes pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guide.
Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple and the historic Polonnaruwa Ancient City, with its royal palace, quadrangle, and iconic Buddha statues.
The tour also features a scenic drive through lush landscapes and a local lunch showcasing Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage.
Flexible booking options, like free cancellation and pay later, make this tour an accessible and convenient way to discover these cultural gems.
Read our full review: Dambulla & Polonnaruwa Ancient City: Day Tour From Kandy Review
Book now: Check availability
Dambulla & Polonnaruwa Ancient City: Day Tour From Negombo
Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka on a day tour from Negombo to the ancient cities of Dambulla and Polonnaruwa.
This tour, priced from $250.26 per person, takes you on a journey through UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Dambulla Cave Temple and the Polonnaruwa Ancient City.
Highlights include the colossal reclining Buddha, the Royal Palace, and the serene Parakrama Samudra reservoir.
With private transportation, a professional guide, and included lunch, this tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience.
Capture the essence of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and witness the country’s natural beauty on this scenic day trip.
Read our full review: Dambulla & Polonnaruwa Ancient City: Day Tour From Negombo Review
Book now: Check availability
From Sigiriya :Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour/Day Tour
Departing from Sigiriya, this day tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Priced from €47.65 per person, the 5-8 hour experience showcases the area’s key attractions, including the rock-carved Buddhas of Gal Vihara, the historic Royal Palace Complex, and the beautiful shrine carvings of Polonnaruwa Vatadage.
With the option to add a ruins guide and enjoy a safari jeep ride, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the site’s temples, palaces, and wildlife.
Punctual and friendly English-speaking drivers provide hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience.
Read our full review: From Sigiriya :Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour/Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
From Kandy City Tour : Sigiriya City Tour By Tuk Tuk 2Days
Travelers departing from Kandy can enjoy a comprehensive two-day tour that showcases the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress and the ancient Dambulla Cave Temples.
Priced at $33.62 per person, the tour offers a flexible cancellation policy and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.
Highlights include visits to cultural sites like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, natural wonders such as the Royal Botanical Gardens, and interactive experiences like a village safari.
With an expert tuk-tuk guide providing insights, this tour promises a well-rounded exploration of the region’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and traditional way of life.
Read our full review: From Kandy City Tour : Sigiriya City Tour By Tuk Tuk 2Days Review
Book now: Check availability
4 Days Multi City Sightseeing Tour
This 4-day multi-city sightseeing tour offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders. Priced at Kč 14,365 per group (up to 1 person), the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, accommodations, select meals, and an English-speaking host.
Highlights include climbing Sigiriya Lion Rock, visiting Dambulla Cave Temple, Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, and hiking to the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella.
Participants must be prepared for the physical demands and follow the dress code and behavioral guidelines. Flexibility is crucial, as the tour may be subject to weather conditions and schedule changes.
Read our full review: 4 Days Multi City Sightseeing Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sri Lanka: 5 Days Multi City Sightseeing Tour
Sri Lanka’s 5-day multi-city sightseeing tour offers an immersive adventure across the island’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Priced from Kč 11,971 per person, the tour takes travelers to destinations like Colombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, and Ella.
Highlights include the Golden Temple of Dambulla, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and Udawalawa National Park. Accommodations range from 4-star hotels to tea plantation lodges.
With a flexible cancellation policy and a pay-later option, the tour provides an accessible way to explore Sri Lanka’s wonders. While long drives and a packed itinerary may be tiring for some, the tour’s diverse activities, quality inclusions, and knowledgeable guides make it a top choice for those seeking a comprehensive Sri Lankan experience.
Read our full review: Sri Lanka: 5 Days Multi City Sightseeing Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Dambulla and Polonnaruwa offer a wealth of historical and cultural sites for visitors to explore. Travelers can choose from various day tours and multi-city sightseeing packages to maximize their experience. Whether visiting from Kandy, Negombo, or Sigiriya, these ancient cities provide fascinating insights into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. Tuk tuk tours and multi-day itineraries ensure travelers can conveniently discover the best of Dambulla and Polonnaruwa.