Colombo-Negombo : Sigiriya & Dambulla Cave Full-Day Tour

Exploring the ancient wonders of Sri Lanka is a must-do for any traveler. The Colombo-Negombo full-day tour to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple promises an unforgettable adventure. Visitors can marvel at the stunning frescoes and panoramic views from atop Sigiriya, then explore the impressive Buddhist statues and murals that adorn the Dambulla Cave Temple. For those seeking a wildlife encounter, optional safaris offer a chance to spot majestic elephants in their natural habitat. This immersive experience provides a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

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Key Points

Full-day excursion exploring the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple, priced at €55.59 per person.
Opportunity to take an optional wildlife safari to spot elephant herds in their natural habitat.
Comprehensive tour package includes English-speaking guides, hotel pickup/drop-off, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Visitors can admire the vibrant frescoes, ancient murals, and massive Buddha statues at the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress offers panoramic views from the summit and a chance to explore the water gardens, boulder gardens, and moat systems.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of two iconic Sri Lankan landmarks – the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya and the renowned Dambulla Cave Temple. Priced from €55.59 per person, the full-day excursion promises 14 hours of immersive cultural discovery, with English-speaking guides and hotel pickup/drop-off included.

Visitors can marvel at Sigiriya’s frescoes, royal gardens, and panoramic vistas, then explore the sacred caves of Dambulla, adorned with Buddha statues and ancient murals. An optional wildlife safari to spot elephant herds completes this well-rounded tour.

Flexible cancellation and a pay-later option make booking convenient.

Looking for more options in Dambulla? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Towering majestically above the lush greenery, the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya captivates visitors with its rich history and breathtaking vistas.

Constructed in the 5th century by King Kashyapa, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts impressive water gardens, boulder gardens, and moat systems.

Constructed in the 5th century by King Kashyapa, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts impressive water gardens, boulder gardens, and moat systems.

Guests can admire the vibrant frescoes halfway up the rock and experience the renowned Lion’s Gate entrance.

Reaching the summit, they’re rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the remnants of the ancient palace, including water fountains and royal baths.

An optional museum visit at the base showcases intriguing artifacts.

Dambulla Cave Temple

After exploring the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, visitors can venture to the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The complex consists of five main caves, housing an impressive collection of Buddhist statues and ancient murals. The highlight is the Cave of the Great Kings, featuring massive Buddha statues and intricate wall paintings.

Travelers can also visit the adjacent Golden Temple, home to a giant golden Buddha statue.

With opportunities to shop for souvenirs or visit a spice garden after the exploration, the Dambulla Cave Temple offers a captivating cultural experience.

Wildlife Safari

As part of the day’s adventure, visitors can visit a national park known for its large herds of wild elephants.

Here, they’ll experience a jeep safari ride through dense jungle and grasslands. The highlight of this excursion is the opportunity to spot elephant herds, sometimes numbering over 100 individuals.

Travelers can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, witnessing their social interactions and behaviors.

This wildlife encounter offers a unique chance to appreciate the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka’s protected areas and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s natural wonders.

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Inclusions

The tour package includes several key inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

The tour package includes several key inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

These include:

Hotel pickup and drop-off to ensure a seamless start and end to the day.
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort during the journey.
An English-speaking driver to provide insightful commentary throughout the tour.
Bottled water to stay hydrated.
A guided tour at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the historical significance.
A refreshing king coconut drink, a local specialty, to enjoy during the tour.
Entrance fees to the sites, so travelers can focus on the experience without additional costs.

There's plenty more to explore in Dambulla

Important Information

Although entry tickets aren’t included in the tour price, the package provides a range of inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

These include hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking driver, bottled water, a guide at the Sigiriya Lion Rock, and a refreshing king coconut.

Plus, all entrance fees are covered.

While customer reviews have been mixed, with some concerns raised about additional costs for certain amenities, the tour offers a comprehensive itinerary to explore the captivating Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have reported varied experiences with the organization and inclusivity of the tour.

Some noted positive interactions, even for non-English speakers.

However, concerns have been raised regarding additional costs for:

Water
Guides
Other amenities

Tour Experience

Participants can expect a comprehensive tour experience that encompasses the highlights of Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple.

The day begins with a guided exploration of the majestic Sigiriya, where they’ll ascend the iconic lion’s staircase, admire the vibrant frescoes, and enjoy panoramic views from the summit.

Guided exploration of majestic Sigiriya, ascent of iconic lion’s staircase, admiration of vibrant frescoes, and panoramic views from summit.

At Dambulla, visitors explore the ancient cave complex, marveling at the impressive Buddha statues and intricate murals.

The tour also includes a wildlife safari, providing the opportunity to spot elephants in their natural habitat.

While additional costs may arise, the tour offers a well-rounded experience of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders.

Common Questions

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

According to the tour overview, there is no explicit mention of a private tour option. However, the tour appears customizable, so a private tour may be available upon request or for an additional fee.

Can We Customize the Itinerary Based on Our Interests?

The tour operator may allow customizing the itinerary to suit travelers’ interests, though this may incur additional costs. Customers can inquire about flexibility and personalization options when booking the tour.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Sites?

The best time to visit the Sigiriya rock fortress and Dambulla cave temple is during the dry season, from December to April. Crowds are smaller, temperatures are milder, and the sites are more comfortable to explore.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Accessibility Accommodations?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Accessibility is limited at Sigiriya Rock Fortress due to steep stairs, though the Dambulla Cave Temple has paved paths. Visitors with mobility concerns should inquire about accommodations before booking.

Are Meals or Snacks Provided During the Tour?

The tour provides bottled water, but meals or snacks are not included. Travelers are responsible for their own food and dining arrangements during the full-day excursion.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable Colombo-Negombo tour to explore the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple. Marvel at the ancient frescoes and panoramic views from Sigiriya, then discover the impressive Buddhist statues and murals at Dambulla. With optional wildlife safaris, you’ve got the chance to encounter majestic elephants in their natural habitat. This immersive 14-hour excursion is priced at €55.59 per person and includes hotel pickup, transportation, and an English-speaking guide.