From Bentota: Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Dambulla Cave Temple

Nestled along the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Bentota serves as an idyllic launching pad for an unforgettable day trip to two of the island’s most iconic attractions – the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temple. This 12-hour guided tour promises to whisk visitors away on a journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes, where they’ll have the chance to scale the ancient 1,200-step staircase of Sigiriya and uncover the secrets of the mesmerizing Dambulla caves. With a knowledgeable guide and private transportation, this experience offers a seamless and immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures, leaving travelers eager to discover more.

Good To Know

• This tour departs from Bentota and visits the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka.
• The 12-hour tour includes private transportation, an English/German-speaking guide, and complimentary refreshments, but excludes entrance fees and lunch.
• Highlights include climbing over 1,200 steps to the top of Sigiriya Rock and exploring the Dambulla Cave Temple’s 153 Buddha statues and intricate murals.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now & pay later" option is offered for booking.
• The tour may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or pregnant women due to the strenuous climbing at Sigiriya.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour from Bentota to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple typically costs $160.00 per person.

Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour lasts for 12 hours, with hotel pickup in the morning and return in the evening.

Highlights include climbing 1,200 steps to the top of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and exploring the vast Dambulla Cave Temple.

The package includes private transportation, an English or German-speaking guide, refreshments, and all government taxes.

Entrance fees and lunch aren’t included, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant women.

Itinerary and Highlights

What does the carefully curated itinerary of this tour entail? The day begins with a 6 AM hotel pickup from the Bentota area, whisking you away to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Prepare to climb 1,200 steps and marvel at the advanced irrigation systems and the grand lion carving that adorns this 660-foot-high fortress, built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century. After a local lunch, the exploration continues at the Dambulla Cave Temple, the largest cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, housing 153 Buddha statues and stunning murals across 2,100 square meters of space.

Time	Location	Activity
06:00 AM	Hotel pick-up	Depart for Sigiriya
10:00 AM	Sigiriya Rock	Explore the UNESCO site
13:00 PM	Local Restaurant	Enjoy a delicious local lunch
14:00 PM	Dambulla Caves	Discover the largest cave temple
18:00 PM	Hotel drop-off	Return to your accommodations

Transportation and Inclusions

This tour package includes private vehicle transportation from the hotel and back, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.

The tour also provides an English/German-speaking guide during the sightseeing activities, allowing visitors to learn more about the rich history and cultural significance of the sites.

Plus, the package includes:

1. Complimentary refreshments and water to keep you hydrated throughout the day.
2. All government taxes, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees.
3. Fuel surcharge and driver charges, making the overall cost transparent and easy to budget.

The transportation and inclusions in this tour aim to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors exploring the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple.

Exclusions and Restrictions

Aside from the included transportation and guide services, the tour doesn’t cover the entrance fees to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple. Visitors will need to pay for these separately upon arrival.

Lunch at a local restaurant is also not included in the tour package price. Plus, gratuities for the guide and driver aren’t covered.

The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women, as it involves climbing 1,200 steps to reach the top of Sigiriya Rock.

Certain restrictions apply, such as no flash photography and no sleeveless shirts allowed.

Itinerary details may be subject to change, so travelers should confirm availability and starting times before booking.

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Important Information

Travelers will need to bring their passport or ID card for this tour. Flash photography isn’t allowed, and sleeveless shirts should be avoided when visiting the sacred sites.

Itineraries are subject to change, so it’s essential to check availability for starting times.

Here are 3 important things to keep in mind:

1. The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or pregnant women, as it involves climbing 1,200 steps to reach the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

2. Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully when exploring the religious sites, such as the Dambulla Cave Temple.

3. Checking availability and confirming tour details are crucial to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Towering majestically at 660 feet, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress stands as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of King Kashyapa, who constructed this breathtaking fortress in the 5th century.

Visitors climb over 1,200 steps to reach the top, where they’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the site’s advanced irrigation system and the iconic lion carving.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique blend of historical significance, architectural marvel, and natural beauty, captivating all who venture to explore its well-preserved ruins and uncover the secrets of Sri Lanka’s rich past.

Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple complex, Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave monastery, rises 160 meters above the surrounding plains.

Boasting over 80 caves, the temple complex houses 153 stunning Buddha statues, along with intricate murals covering 2,100 square meters.

Visitors can marvel at the architectural and artistic wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including:

1. The colossal golden Buddha statue, standing at an impressive 14 meters tall.
2. The vibrant, well-preserved murals depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and the life of Buddha.
3. The tranquil, serene atmosphere that pervades the cave temples, inviting visitors to bask in the spiritual ambiance.

Cancellation and Booking

Visitors have the flexibility to cancel their tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This ensures travelers can plan their trip with confidence and easily adjust their plans if needed.

Plus, the tour operator offers a "reserve now & pay later" option, allowing guests to secure their spot without upfront payment. This convenient booking policy makes it simple for travelers to lock in their desired tour date.

The tour is valid for 12 hours, providing ample time to explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the expansive Dambulla Cave Temple at a leisurely pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Health and Safety Precautions for the Tour?

The tour has some health and safety restrictions. It’s not suitable for people with mobility issues or pregnant women. Visitors must bring identification and follow guidelines on attire and photography to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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

You can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour, as complimentary refreshments and water are provided. The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, so there’s no need to pack your own meals.

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for families with young children due to the physically demanding nature of climbing 1,200 steps at Sigiriya Rock Fortress. However, the Dambulla Cave Temple portion could be more accessible for young kids.

How Do I Get a Refund if I Need to Cancel Within 24 Hours?

To get a refund if you need to cancel within 24 hours, simply contact the tour operator. They offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can get a full refund during that time period.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Add Additional Activities?

Yes, travelers can customize the itinerary or add additional activities, though there may be an extra cost. They should contact the tour provider to discuss their preferences and any possible modifications to the standard tour package.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Bentota takes travelers on an unforgettable journey to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the stunning Dambulla Cave Temple. Climb the 1,200 steps of Sigiriya, explore its ancient ruins, and marvel at the magnificent Buddha statues and intricate murals in Dambulla. With knowledgeable guidance and comfortable transportation, this enriching experience promises an unforgettable exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: