From Hikkaduwa to Sigiriya & Dambulla One Day Tour

Set out on a captivating journey from the sun-kissed shores of Hikkaduwa to the ancient wonders of Sigiriya and Dambulla. This one-day tour promises an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, where you’ll uncover the secrets of the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock and marvel at the breathtaking murals and Buddha statues of the Dambulla Cave Temple. With an air-conditioned vehicle, knowledgeable chauffeurs, and customizable options, this tour offers an enriching experience that will leave you yearning to discover more of this enchanting island nation. Prepare to be captivated as you explore the heart of Sri Lanka’s timeless charm.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Hikkaduwa.

Good To Know

• A one-day tour from Hikkaduwa to the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple, exploring Sri Lanka’s ancient cultural heritage.
• The tour includes air-conditioned transport, English-speaking chauffeur, and guided explorations at both sites, with options for additional activities.
• The itinerary covers a scenic 3-3.5 hour drive to Sigiriya, a guided tour and hike, followed by a visit to Dambulla’s sacred cave temples.
• The tour is priced from LKR 2,344 per person and offers multiple language options, free cancellation, and customizable itinerary.
• The tour may not be suitable for certain travelers, and recent entrance fee increases for Sigiriya Fortress are noted as an extra expense.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This one-day tour from Hikkaduwa to Sigiriya and Dambulla promises an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s captivating UNESCO-listed sites.

Priced from LKR 2,344 per person, the 13-hour journey includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking chauffeur.

Travelers can choose from a range of language options, including French, German, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Hindi, and Tamil.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private group experience offers the flexibility to customize your itinerary.

Highlights include guided tours of the iconic Sigiriya Rock and the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple, as well as optional activities like a wild elephant safari and traditional cooking class.

Itinerary

The tour kicks off with pickup from either Hikkaduwa or Galle, setting the stage for a captivating journey.

Your chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned vehicle traverses the scenic 3-3.5 hour route to Sigiriya Rock, the iconic fortress of ancient kings.

After an engaging guided tour and hike up this UNESCO-listed wonder, you’ll enjoy lunch options before continuing to Dambulla Cave Temple.

Here, you’ll marvel at the sacred Buddha images and ancient murals during a 40-minute guided tour and hike.

The tour concludes around 4 PM, returning you to your hotel by approximately 9 PM, with an unforgettable exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures.

Key Stops

Visitors embark on a captivating journey, starting with the iconic Sigiriya Rock – a UNESCO-listed ancient fortress that towers majestically over the surrounding landscape.

Under the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide, they’ll explore the ruins and hike to the summit, where they’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

The tour then ventures to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a network of five dimly lit caves showcasing ancient murals and hundreds of Buddha statues.

Guests marvel at the intricate carvings and paintings, seeing the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Throughout the day, the tour offers opportunities to witness traditional demonstrations and purchase unique souvenirs, creating a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.

Highlights

Exploring the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple promises a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Hike to the summit of Sigiriya, an ancient fortress perched atop a dramatic rock, and marvel at the sacred Buddha images and ancient murals adorning the Dambulla Cave Temple.

For a deeper immersion, embark on an optional wild elephant safari or join a traditional cooking class.

Along the way, you’ll have the chance to browse local markets and witness time-honored demonstrations, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable cultural experience.

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Inclusions

For this comprehensive one-day tour, the package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to your excursion.

You’ll enjoy air-conditioned vehicle transport throughout, accompanied by an English-speaking chauffeur who’ll guide you through the day’s adventures.

Entrance fees to the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple are covered, allowing you to fully learn about these iconic Sri Lankan landmarks without any hassle.

An optional village tour is available for an additional $20, which includes a delectable Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch.

Gratuities are left to your discretion, and you’ll have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs and witness traditional demonstrations along the way.

Important Information

This tour may not be suitable for certain travelers. Pregnant women, visually impaired individuals, and wheelchair users should avoid this excursion due to the strenuous hiking involved.

However, adventurous travelers will be rewarded with breathtaking views from Sigiriya Rock and insights into Sri Lanka’s ancient history at the Dambulla Cave Temple.

Visitors should bring their passport or ID, as well as water to stay hydrated. Large luggage and pets aren’t allowed on the tour.

While the recent entrance fee increase for Sigiriya Fortress is an extra expense, the opportunity to explore these UNESCO-listed sites makes this day trip a must-do for many travelers.

Pricing and Availability

The one-day tour from Hikkaduwa to Sigiriya and Dambulla is available at an enticing price point starting from K₨ 2,344 per person.

This immersive experience lasts 13 hours and caters to a diverse range of languages, ensuring a truly inclusive journey.

With the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can plan with confidence.

For those seeking a more private setting, a tailored group tour is also on offer.

Regardless of the package, this captivating tour promises to unveil the UNESCO-listed wonders of Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple, along with opportunities to engage with local culture and cuisine.

Reviews and Ratings

With a modest overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 from 3 reviews, this one-day tour in Sri Lanka garners a mixed response from travelers.

Some highlight the stunning natural beauty of the sites and the knowledgeable guide, while others note:

• Occasional communication issues with the driver
• Feeling rushed through the attractions
• Disappointment with the quality of the included lunch
• Concerns about the tour not being fully accessible for all visitors

Despite these mixed reviews, the opportunity to explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple in a single day still makes this tour an attractive option for many visitors to Sri Lanka.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a COVID-19 Vaccination Required for This Tour?

The tour provider hasn’t specified a COVID-19 vaccination requirement. However, it’s always wise to check the latest guidelines and protocols before booking, as policies can change. Safety should be the top priority for an enjoyable experience.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Sacred Sites?

Visitors are expected to dress modestly when visiting sacred sites like Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple. This means covering shoulders, knees, and avoiding revealing clothing. It’s important to show respect for the religious significance of these ancient landmarks.

Can We Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional activities like a wild elephant safari or a traditional cooking class. These optional extras offer a more immersive cultural experience for adventurous travelers.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available During the Tour?

Vegetarian and vegan meal options are available on this tour. The knowledgeable guides can accommodate dietary preferences, ensuring a delightful Sri Lankan dining experience amidst the stunning historical sights of Sigiriya and Dambulla.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Absolutely! The tour operator offers a flexible itinerary, allowing travelers to customize their experience. With advance notice, they’ll happily accommodate special requests, such as adding or modifying stops based on individual interests and needs.

The Sum Up

This one-day tour from Hikkaduwa to Sigiriya and Dambulla is a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock, explore its ancient ruins, and discover the stunning murals and Buddha statues of the Dambulla Cave Temple. With a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, knowledgeable chauffeurs, and customizable options, this tour promises an enriching and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich history and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: