From Kandy: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip

Set out on a captivating journey from Kandy to uncover the ancient wonders of Sigiriya and Dambulla. This day trip whisks you away to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, where you’ll explore Sri Lanka’s rich history and breathtaking natural landscapes. Venture into the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a maze of rock-carved sanctuaries adorned with intricate frescoes and impressive Buddha statues. Then, brace yourself for the climb up the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, rewarded with sweeping vistas that will leave you in awe. Whether you choose to spot wildlife along the way or simply learn about the cultural heritage, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience.

Good To Know

• A day trip from Kandy to the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temples, including transportation and an English-speaking driver.
• Explore the ancient cave temples of Dambulla with over 150 Buddha statues and marvel at the 14-meter-tall reclining Buddha.
• Ascend the iconic Sigiriya Rock, with its famous frescoes and panoramic views from the summit.
• Optional wildlife viewing activity to observe Sri Lanka’s diverse fauna, such as elephants, birds, and reptiles.
• Opportunity to witness traditional crafts, purchase souvenirs, and experience a combination of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This day trip from Kandy offers an immersive exploration of two of Sri Lanka’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites – Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temples.

Priced from $70 per person, the 10-hour tour includes pickup from your Kandy hotel and transportation by air-conditioned vehicle. An English-speaking driver will guide you through the day’s adventures.

Highlights include the stunning 200-meter-tall Sigiriya Lion Rock and a self-guided tour of Dambulla’s ancient cave temples adorned with Buddha statues and vibrant murals.

Along the way, you’ll witness traditional craft demonstrations and have the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs.

Itinerary

The day trip begins with pickup from your hotel in Kandy. You’ll then head out to the first stop, the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple. Here, you’ll enjoy a self-guided tour of the ancient cave complex, taking in the impressive Buddha images and stunning rock paintings dating back to the 2nd century BC.

Next, you’ll visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock, where a guided tour will lead you up the 200-meter tall fortress. After exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll have the option to embark on a wildlife viewing activity, for an additional fee.

Location	Duration
Dambulla Royal Cave Temple	45 minutes
Sigiriya Rock	2 hours
Wildlife Viewing	Optional

Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple

Visitors typically begin their day trip at the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 2nd century BC.

This extraordinary complex features five caves housing over 150 statues of Buddha, as well as ancient wall paintings that depict religious imagery and the region’s history.

Some highlights include:

• The massive 14-meter-tall reclining Buddha statue
• Intricate carvings and paintings depicting the life of Buddha
• Vibrant colors and patterns adorning the cave walls
• A golden temple at the entrance, known as the "Golden Temple of Dambulla"

Visitors can explore this stunning archaeological treasure trove at their own pace, marveling at the remarkable artistry and spiritual significance of this sacred site.

Sigiriya Lion Rock

After exploring the ancient cave temples of Dambulla, the day trip continues on to the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock.

Rising 200 meters high, this ancient fortress and palace commands stunning vistas across the surrounding countryside. Visitors ascend the steep stairways, passing the famous frescoes of beautiful maidens along the way.

At the summit, they’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views and the remains of the former royal gardens and structures. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and a chance to challenge oneself physically.

The guided tour provides valuable insights, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the majesty of Sigiriya.

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Optional Wildlife Viewing

For those interested in spotting Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, the day trip offers an optional excursion.

You may have the chance to observe a range of animals, including:

• Majestic elephants roaming through the lush landscapes
• Vibrant birds soaring overhead, displaying their colorful plumages
• Elusive leopards prowling in the dense vegetation, if you’re fortunate
• Various reptiles, such as crocodiles and monitor lizards, basking in the sun

While an additional fee applies, this wildlife viewing opportunity allows you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the region and potentially encounter some of Sri Lanka’s iconic species.

Highlights

One of the highlights of this day trip is the stunning views from the top of Sigiriya Rock, which towers an impressive 200 meters above the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the Dambulla Cave Temples, which contain an array of Buddha images and ancient rock paintings dating back to the 2nd-century BC through the 18th-century Kandyan era. On top of that, the tour includes opportunities to witness traditional craft demonstrations, such as wood carving and batik textiles, and to purchase unique souvenirs. The combination of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences makes this day trip a well-rounded and memorable adventure.

Highlights
Sigiriya Rock	Stunning views from the 200-meter tall rock	Impressive natural wonder
Dambulla Caves	Explore ancient Buddha images and rock paintings	Immersive cultural experience
Craft Demos	See traditional wood carving and batik textiles	Opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs

Important Information

Typically, the tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving travelers the flexibility to adjust their plans if needed.

To make the most of the day trip, visitors should bring:

• Passport or ID for temple entry
• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Sunglasses and a sun hat
• Modest clothing to cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites

Plus, pets, large bags, and luggage aren’t permitted on the tour.

The day’s schedule may be rearranged due to inclement weather, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Customer Feedback

Based on the 35 reviews, the day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla receives an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Travelers praised the comfortable transportation and knowledgeable driver, rating them 4.7/5. However, the value for money received a slightly lower 3.8/5 rating, with some noting that entrance fees can add up. The tour provides a convenient way to visit these historical sites, with positive experiences highlighted by customers.

Rating	Score
Overall	4.3/5
Transportation	4.7/5
Value for Money	3.8/5
Comments	Positive experiences, comfortable travel, entrance fees can add up

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Visit Additional Sites Beyond the Itinerary?

The tour provides a focused itinerary, but travelers can inquire about adding extra stops or activities for an additional fee if they wish to explore beyond the scheduled Dambulla and Sigiriya highlights.

Can I Purchase Meals or Snacks During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase meals or snacks during the tour. There are opportunities to stop at local eateries and shops where you can buy food and refreshments to enjoy throughout the day.

Are There Any Age/Physical Ability Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no specific age or physical ability restrictions for this tour. However, visitors should be able to climb the 1,200 steps up Sigiriya Rock. The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Can I Request to Stop at Specific Locations During the Tour?

Travelers can typically request to make additional stops during the tour, though these may incur extra fees or adjust the overall itinerary. The tour operator give you a flexible experience while ensuring the day’s highlights are covered.

How Do I Provide Feedback or Communicate With the Tour Company?

Customers can provide feedback directly to the tour company through the website, email, or by contacting the customer service number. This allows them to share their experiences and communicate any concerns or requests for future tours.

The Sum Up

Experience Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders on this captivating day trip from Kandy. Explore the ancient Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, then scale the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock for breathtaking views. With an optional wildlife viewing opportunity, this tour offers an unforgettable blend of history, adventure, and scenic beauty, making it a must-do for any visitor to the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: