Day Tour to Sigiriya & Dambulla From Kandy by Aaliya Tours

Exploring the UNESCO-listed wonders of Sigiriya and Dambulla is a must-do for any visitor to Sri Lanka. Aaliya Tours’ day tour from Kandy promises a hassle-free experience, transporting travelers to these iconic sites in the comfort of a private vehicle. With a knowledgeable driver-guide to provide insights, visitors can enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage. From the awe-inspiring views atop Sigiriya Rock to the captivating cave temples of Dambulla, this tour offers a seamless way to discover the heart of Sri Lanka’s history. What awaits those who embark on this journey might just surprise you.

Key Points

• This day tour offers hassle-free travel with hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as private transportation and a knowledgeable driver-guide.
• Visitors can explore the impressive Dambulla Cave Temple complex and admire the breathtaking views from the summit of Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
• The tour includes informative commentary from the driver-guide about the historical and cultural significance of the sites.
• Entrance tickets to Dambulla and Sigiriya are not included, allowing travelers to customize their spending and experience.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and a dress code must be followed for visits to the religious sites.

Tour Description

This day tour offers a hassle-free experience, providing hotel pickup and drop-off as well as private transportation with a driver-guide to explore the iconic sites of Sigiriya and Dambulla.

Travelers will marvel at the cave temple complex in Dambulla, which features impressive rock-cut statues and murals.

The tour then continues to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, where visitors can admire the breathtaking views from the summit.

Throughout the journey, the driver-guide will provide informative commentary, ensuring travelers gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of these must-see destinations.

This comprehensive day tour is an excellent way to discover the rich heritage of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle.

What’s Included

The day tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels, a private vehicle with a driver-guide, and transportation to explore the key sites of Dambulla and Sigiriya.

You’ll visit the impressive Dambulla Cave Temple complex, home to an array of Buddha statues and ancient murals.

Then, you’ll head to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, climbing to the top to take in the stunning views over the surrounding landscape.

Throughout the tour, your driver-guide will provide insightful commentary, ensuring you make the most of your day.

While entrance tickets and lunch aren’t included, all other logistics like fuel and tolls are covered, making this a hassle-free way to experience these two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

What’s Not Included

Drinks, lunch, and entrance tickets to the activities aren’t included in the day tour price.

While the tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a driver-guide, visitors will need to pay for their own refreshments and meals during the excursion.

Plus, admission fees to the Dambulla cave temple complex and the Sigiriya rock fortress aren’t part of the tour package.

This allows travelers to have flexibility in their spending and the option to upgrade or customize their experience as desired.

The tour operator provides clear information upfront about what’s and isn’t covered, ensuring there are no hidden costs or surprises for participants.

Logistics

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking for this day tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and participants are advised to adhere to the dress code when visiting the cave temple and Hindu temple.

Most travelers can comfortably participate in this private tour, where only your group will be involved.

This tour offers the following logistical advantages:

• Confirmation is provided at the time of booking
• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so participants should be aware of this
• A dress code must be followed for visits to the cave temple and Hindu temple
• Most travelers can participate in this private tour, which is exclusive to your group

Cancellation Policy

Canceling this day tour is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but changes less than 24 hours before the tour are not accepted. Cut-off times are based on the local time zone.

Cancellation Policy
Refund	24 hours or more	Full refund
	Less than 24 hours	Not accepted
Cut-off Times	Based on local time

This flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if plans change with ample notice. The strict 24-hour cut-off ensures the tour operator can accommodate last-minute logistics effectively.

Highlights of Sigiriya

The breathtaking Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is undoubtedly the highlight of this day tour. Towering 200 meters above the surrounding plains, this ancient rock citadel boasts well-preserved ruins, elaborately landscaped gardens, and awe-inspiring views from the summit.

Visitors can explore the remains of the palace, admire the impressive frescoes, and climb the iconic Lion Staircase to reach the top.

The key highlights of Sigiriya include:

• The Mirror Wall, adorned with ancient graffiti
• The Water Gardens, a complex irrigation system
• The Boulder Gardens, showcasing the natural landscape
• The Sigiriya Museum, providing insights into the site’s history

Highlights of Dambulla

While Sigiriya steals the spotlight, the Dambulla Cave Temple Complex is another must-see highlight of this day tour.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses an impressive collection of over 150 Buddha statues, rock carvings, and ancient murals spanning multiple caves dating back to the 1st century BC.

Visitors can explore the five main caves, each with its own unique features and artifacts. The largest, the Great New Monastery Cave, is particularly striking with its towering Buddha statues and elaborately painted ceilings.

Travelers will appreciate the opportunity to witness this well-preserved example of Sri Lankan rock painting and sculpture, complementing the awe-inspiring Sigiriya rock fortress on this comprehensive day tour.

About the Driver-Guide

A knowledgeable driver-guide accompanies travelers on this day tour, providing insights and commentary throughout the journey. They’re well-versed in the local history, culture, and attractions, ensuring guests have a rich and memorable experience.

The driver-guide enhances the tour in several ways:

• Offers background information on Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the cave temple complex at Dambulla
• Shares local legends and fun facts to bring the destinations to life

They efficiently navigate the roads, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. The driver-guide also assists with logistics like coordinating entrance tickets and managing the day’s schedule.

With their expertise and attentive service, the driver-guide makes this day tour a seamless and enlightening adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes a driver-guide but does not cover the cost of food and drinks. You’ll need to purchase those separately during the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Entire Tour?

There is a dress code for the cave temple and Hindu temple visits during the tour. Visitors must wear modest, covering clothing. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. The rest of the tour has no specific dress code.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Sigiriya and Dambulla Sites?

Visitors can generally take photos inside the Sigiriya and Dambulla sites, but there may be restrictions or additional fees in certain areas. It’s best to check with the site staff upon arrival for any photography policies.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can be customized, though it may incur additional charges. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and see if they can accommodate any changes to the standard itinerary within the available time and budget.

How Many People Can Be Accommodated in the Private Vehicle?

The private vehicle can accommodate a group size, with the exact capacity depending on the specific vehicle used. Travelers should inquire about the vehicle size when booking the tour to ensure it meets their group’s needs.

Recap

The day tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Kandy with Aaliya Tours offers a comprehensive and hassle-free exploration of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Travelers can marvel at the impressive Sigiriya Rock Fortress, explore the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, and gain insights into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

With private transportation and a knowledgeable driver-guide, this tour ensures a seamless and memorable experience for visitors.