Fom Negombo: Sigiriya Rock & Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

Set out on a captivating journey from the coastal town of Negombo to uncover the timeless wonders of Sri Lanka. This meticulously curated tour promises to whisk you away to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting island nation, where the past and present intertwine seamlessly. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll explore the incredible stories behind these legendary landmarks, leaving you eager to discover more about Sri Lanka’s remarkable history and natural beauty.

Good To Know

• This 12-hour excursion from Negombo explores the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, an expert English/German-speaking guide, and entrance fees to both attractions.
• Highlights of the tour include a 3.5-hour guided tour of Polonnaruwa and a climb to the top of the 660-foot Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
• The tour provides insights into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing the architectural marvels and historical significance of these ancient sites.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off options are available from hotels in Negombo, Wattala, and Katunayake, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers an opportunity to explore two of Sri Lanka’s most captivating UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Priced from $185 per person, the 12-hour excursion includes round-trip transportation, an expert English/German-speaking guide, and all necessary entrance fees.

Highlights include a 3.5-hour guided tour of Polonnaruwa’s impressive ruins, followed by a thrilling climb up Sigiriya’s 660-foot-tall rock fortress to admire its ancient palaces, lion carving, and innovative irrigation systems.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a convenient and immersive experience to discover Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 5:30 AM pickup from hotels in Negombo, Wattala, or Katunayake, allowing ample time to reach the first destination – the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.

Arriving at 10 AM, guests embark on a captivating 3.5-hour guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the majestic Royal Palace, the awe-inspiring Gal Viharaya, and other impressive landmarks showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

After lunch, the tour proceeds to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 5th-century marvel standing 660 feet tall. Visitors can explore the ancient palace ruins, the iconic lion carving, and the ingenious irrigation systems that once sustained this remarkable fortress.

Key Attractions

Sigiriya Rock Fortress stands tall as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich history, built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century. The fortress features an impressive lion carving and well-preserved ancient palace ruins, offering a glimpse into the country’s architectural prowess.

Nearby, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa showcases the impressive craftsmanship of Sri Lankans, with its grand palaces, intricate dagobas, and majestic temples.

Visitors can explore the Nissankamulla Palace, Thuparama stupa, Lankathilaka stupa, Rankoth Vehera, and the commanding Parakramabahu Statue, each a testament to the city’s cultural and historical significance.

These captivating sites make this tour a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s captivating past.

Tour Inclusions

Ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free experience, the tour package includes an air-conditioned luxury private vehicle for transportation.

The knowledgeable English/German-speaking guide accompanies guests throughout the sightseeing excursion. Refreshments, including complimentary water and snacks, are provided to keep travelers energized.

The tour also covers all necessary fees, including:

1. Fuel surcharge
2. Driver charges
3. Parking fees
4. Government taxes

With the entrance fees to both Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Polonnaruwa included, guests can fully enjoy the rich history and architectural marvels of these UNESCO-recognized sites.

Important Information

When embarking on this tour, it’s recommended to bring along a charged smartphone and your passport or ID card. This will ensure you can capture the stunning vistas and have your identification readily available.

The tour provides convenient pickup service from all hotels in Negombo and Wattala, making it easy to start your adventure. At the end of the day, you’ll have the option to be dropped off in Negombo, Katunayake, or Wattala, ensuring a seamless transition back to your accommodations.

While the itinerary is subject to change, you can expect an unforgettable experience exploring the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

The crown jewel of this captivating tour is the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 5th-century marvel that stands an impressive 660 feet tall.

Visitors will be mesmerized by its sheer scale and the ingenuity of its engineering. As they ascend, they’ll discover:

1. Remnants of an ancient palace complex, complete with meticulously preserved ruins.
2. A massive carved lion’s paw, a stunning reminder of the fortress’ grandeur.
3. Innovative irrigation systems that showcased the advanced engineering of the time.
4. Breathtaking panoramic views from the summit, offering a unique perspective on Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes.

This iconic landmark is a true testament to the rich cultural heritage of the island nation.

Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

Beyond the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the tour takes visitors on a captivating journey to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the remarkable craftsmanship and architectural prowess of Sri Lanka’s 12th-century rulers.

Wander through the well-preserved ruins, including the grand Royal Palace, the serene Gal Vihara with its impressive Buddha statues, and the towering Parakramabahu Statue.

Marvel at the intricate stone carvings, ornate dagobas, and ingenious irrigation systems that once sustained this thriving metropolis.

Polonnaruwa’s timeless beauty and historical significance make it a must-see destination, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s glorious past.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

For the convenience of travelers, the tour offers pickup service from all hotels in Negombo and Wattala.

After the day’s activities, guests can choose to be dropped off at one of three convenient locations: Negombo, Katunayake, or Wattala.

This flexibility ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s exploration of Sigiriya Rock and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.

The tour’s pickup and drop-off options provide:

1. Hassle-free transportation from your hotel
2. Flexibility in your return destination
3. Efficient logistics for a memorable day
4. A stress-free sightseeing experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour With a Different Language Guide?

Yes, you can request a guide in a different language for this tour. The tour company offers English and German-speaking guides, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Sites?

The tour operator recommends visitors dress modestly when exploring the historical sites. Comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes are advised, as the tour involves extensive walking and climbing. Covering shoulders and knees is respectful for the cultural heritage.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available During the Tour?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan meal options are available during the tour. The tour provider offers refreshments that cater to various dietary requirements, ensuring all guests can enjoy the experience comfortably.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to visit additional sites. The tour operator is flexible and happy to accommodate your requests, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience exploring Sri Lanka’s ancient wonders at your own pace.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration to explore additional sites. The tour provider offers flexible options to customize the itinerary and accommodate your interests, ensuring you make the most of your Sri Lankan adventure.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour from Negombo takes you on a journey through Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Witness the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees included, this 12-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience that delves into the country’s captivating history and breathtaking landscapes.