From Dambulla: Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Minneriya Safari

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Dambulla to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the wildlife-rich Minneriya National Park. This full-day excursion promises stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and thrilling encounters with elephants and diverse bird species. At just $55 per person, it’s an affordable way to learn about Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders. But the journey doesn’t end there – prepare to be captivated by what lies ahead.

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Key Points

Full-day excursion from Dambulla to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Minneriya National Park, priced from $55 per person.
Climb 1,200 steps to the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress and explore its landscaped gardens, Cobra Hood Cave, and Mirror Wall.
4-hour jeep safari in Minneriya National Park to spot wildlife like elephants, water buffalo, and diverse birdlife.
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but entrance fees to Sigiriya and Minneriya are additional costs.
Tour not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users; comfortable shoes, hat, and camera recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This activity offers a full-day excursion to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and a thrilling 4-hour jeep safari through Minneriya National Park.

Priced from $55 per person, the tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, the Sigiriya Rock climb, and the Minneriya safari.

Priced from $55 per person, the tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, the Sigiriya Rock climb, and the Minneriya safari.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s no need to pay upfront.

The total duration is 8 hours, making it an efficient way to experience two of Sri Lanka’s top attractions in a single day.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with complimentary pickup from select locations in Habarana, Dambulla, or Sigiriya. Travelers then embark on the main attraction: climbing the 1,200 steps to the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Along the way, they’ll explore the landscaped gardens, marvel at the ancient frescos in the Cobra Hood Cave, and trace the remnants of the Mirror Wall. For those who prefer, there’s an option to stay and admire the fortress from the gardens below. Afterward, the tour heads to Minneriya National Park for a 4-hour jeep safari, spotting elephants, water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife.

| Sigiriya Rock Fortress | Minneriya National Park |

|————————|————————|

| Climb 1,200 steps | 4-hour jeep safari |

| Landscaped gardens | Elephants |

| Cobra Hood Cave | Water buffalo |

| Mirror Wall | Deer |

| Optional garden view | Crocodiles |

Wildlife and Birdwatching

As visitors venture into Minneriya National Park, they’re likely to encounter a diverse array of wildlife.

Elephants, water buffalo, and spotted deer roam freely, while geckos and monkeys scurry through the foliage.

Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, including bulbuls, pelicans, peacocks, hawk eagles, cormorants, kingfishers, and ibis.

Though wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the park is home to a rich ecosystem.

While wildlife sightings are not assured, Minneriya National Park boasts a diverse and thriving natural ecosystem.

Visitors should remember not to touch or interfere with the animals, and to keep a safe distance while enjoying the natural wonders of Minneriya.

Important Information

Although not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Minneriya Safari offers an unforgettable experience.

Comfortable shoes, a hat, and a camera are essential. Sunscreen is a must to protect against the sun. Smoking and touching animals are prohibited, and photography is restricted in the fresco gallery.

Travelers should be aware that wildlife sightings can vary as the animals roam freely.

Despite these limitations, the tour provides an incredible opportunity to explore ancient ruins, witness diverse wildlife, and appreciate the stunning natural beauty of Sri Lanka.

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Inclusions and Additional Costs

The tour package includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, a 4-hour jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, and the opportunity to climb to the top of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Additional costs include:

Entrance fees: Sigiriya Rock ($35) and Minneriya National Park ($45), inclusive of GST
Meals and drinks
Gratuities

Bottled water is provided, but travelers are responsible for any other expenses.

The tour is designed to offer a comprehensive experience, with the flexibility for guests to customize their day as needed.

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Pickup Locations and Accessibility

The tour offers pickup locations from Habarana, Dambulla, and Sigiriya. This makes it convenient for travelers staying in these areas to join the excursion.

However, the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the strenuous nature of climbing Sigiriya Rock. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection for the day’s outdoor activities.

While the tour provides an immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage, participants must be physically capable of tackling the 1,200 steps to the top of the iconic fortress.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress Climb

Climbing Sigiriya Rock Fortress is the highlight of the tour for many visitors. The ascent involves climbing over 1,200 steps, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. Along the way, guests can explore the landscaped gardens, admire the ancient frescoes in the Cobra Hood Cave, and marvel at the Mirror Wall.

The climb isn’t recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, camera, and sunscreen.
Smoking and touching the animals are prohibited, and photography is restricted in the fresco gallery.
For those who prefer to avoid the climb, there’s an option to stay and explore the gardens.

Minneriya National Park Safari

After exploring the historical Sigiriya Rock Fortress, visitors embark on a 4-hour jeep safari through the diverse Minneriya National Park.

Home to a vast array of wildlife, the park offers opportunities to spot elephants, water buffalo, spotted deer, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species.

Travelers may witness the majestic elephants grazing along the banks of the serene Minneriya Lake or observe the graceful flight of pelicans, peacocks, and hawk eagles.

While sightings can never be guaranteed, the knowledgeable safari guides navigate the park to maximize the chances of memorable wildlife encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Throughout the Entire Tour?

Photography is allowed throughout the tour, except in the fresco gallery at Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Visitors are restricted from taking photos in this specific area due to conservation reasons.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Snacks?

Guests can bring their own food and snacks on the tour. However, it’s important to note that feeding the wildlife is not allowed. Packed meals and light refreshments can be enjoyed during the breaks and rest stops.

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour is generally suitable for families with young children, though the Sigiriya Rock Fortress climb may be challenging for very young kids. Families can opt to explore the gardens instead of climbing. Advance planning is recommended to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can We Book This Tour in a Language Other Than English?

Yes, the tour can be booked in languages other than English. The tour operator offers multilingual guides, so visitors can enjoy the experience in their preferred language. Customers should inquire about language options when booking.

Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Safari?

Yes, the duration of the Minneriya Safari can be extended. Customers can request a longer safari at an additional cost, allowing them more time to explore the park and increase their chances of wildlife sightings.

The Sum Up

This excursion from Dambulla to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Minneriya National Park offers an unforgettable adventure at an affordable price. Travelers can explore the ancient ruins, enjoy the stunning landscapes, and spot diverse wildlife, including elephants and birds. While additional fees apply, the tour’s inclusions and accessibility make it a convenient and engaging day trip option.