The Sigiriya Sunrise & Kandy Tour promises an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s renowned UNESCO heritage sites. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, uncover the mystique of the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, and discover the spiritual significance of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. With comfortable transportation, delicious meals, and ample time for sightseeing and shopping, this 14-hour adventure offers a seamless way to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage. However, there’s more to this tour than meets the eye.
Key Points
- This exclusive 14-hour tour from Negombo or Colombo includes visits to Sigiriya Lion Rock, Dambulla Cave Temples, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
- Enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit of Sigiriya Lion Rock and explore its historic paintings, gardens, and frescoes.
- Discover the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka at the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, home to Buddha images and rock paintings dating back to the 2nd century B.C.
- Marvel at the architectural and artistic wonders on display at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, a sacred site housing a tooth relic of the Buddha.
- The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a king coconut, ensuring a comfortable and prepared experience for the day.
Tour Overview
This exclusive Sigiriya Sunrise & Kandy Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s iconic landmarks.
Priced from $135 per person, the 14-hour tour departs from Negombo or Colombo, with drop-offs at the same locations.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour includes entrance fees, transportation, and a king coconut.
Highlights include climbing the Sigiriya Lion Rock, visiting the Dambulla Cave Temples, and exploring the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Travelers can expect free time for sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
Advance reservations are recommended, with a flexible 24-hour cancellation policy.
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Highlights of Sigiriya Lion Rock
Visitors scaling the Sigiriya Lion Rock can admire the historic paintings, stunning gardens, and intricate frescoes that adorn this ancient fortress.
The guided tour provides insights into the fortress’s fascinating history, dating back to the 5th century. Guests have free time to explore the site, walking along the winding trails and climbing the iconic rock.
At the summit, they’ll find breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. An extra fee applies for entrance, but the experience of discovering this UNESCO World Heritage Site is well worth it.
Exploring Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
After exploring the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, the tour then ventures to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This ancient rock temple complex features:
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Breathtaking Buddha images and stunning rock paintings dating back to the 2nd century B.C. through the 18th century.
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An opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage and history of Sri Lanka.
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A guided tour and free time to wander the temple’s interiors, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the architectural and artistic wonders.
An entrance fee applies to visit this remarkable site.
Visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy
From Dambulla, the tour then heads to Kandy, home of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
This sacred Buddhist site houses a tooth relic of the Buddha. Visitors will receive a guided tour, have free time to explore, and see the cultural heritage of Kandy.
The tour includes an hour to walk around and admire the impressive architecture and religious artifacts. An extra fee applies for entrance to the temple.
Visitors will have an hour to explore the temple’s impressive architecture and religious artifacts, with an additional fee for entry.
After the visit, the tour continues to the Visitor Center, where travelers can shop for traditional crafts.
More Great Tours NearbyShopping at the Visitor Center
The tour then visits the Visitor Center, allowing travelers to browse and purchase traditional Sri Lankan crafts.
The center offers a variety of options:
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Handcrafted wooden carvings, such as intricate sculptures and figurines depicting local culture and wildlife.
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Vibrant textiles, including saris, sarongs, and handloom fabrics showcasing the region’s renowned weaving techniques.
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Jewelry items, including gemstone necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, highlighting the country’s rich gemstone heritage.
Visitors can explore the selection and interact with local artisans, gaining insights into the stories behind the crafts.
The Visitor Center provides a memorable shopping experience and an opportunity to support Sri Lankan small businesses.
Transportation and Meals
Transportation for the tour is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, which could be a car, van, or bus, depending on the group size.
Breakfast is served at a local restaurant for an additional fee and takes about 45 minutes. Lunch is included in Kandy, but the cost isn’t covered in the tour price.
Bottled water is provided throughout the day. A knowledgeable guide will be available to assist during the Sigiriya Lion Rock portion of the tour, speaking English, German, and French.
Plus, a refreshing king coconut is included as part of the tour experience.
What to Bring
Visitors are encouraged to bring their passport, hat, camera, sunscreen, water, long-sleeved shirt, insect repellent, cash, hiking pants, closed-toe shoes, and hand sanitizer or tissues.
This will ensure a comfortable and prepared experience during the tour.
The tour also recommends bringing:
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A lightweight, breathable long-sleeved shirt to protect against the sun.
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Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for hiking at Sigiriya Lion Rock.
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Cash for any additional fees or purchases at the sites.
Packing these essential items will allow visitors to fully enjoy the Sigiriya Sunrise and Kandy Tour.
Restrictions and Important Information
This tour may not be suitable for certain individuals due to health or mobility restrictions.
Pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, heart problems, high blood pressure, recent surgeries, and visually impaired individuals should avoid this tour.
Pets, oversized luggage, baby strollers, drones, alcohol, and any explosive substances aren’t allowed on the vehicle.
It’s important to check tour availability and confirm start times, as itineraries are subject to change.
Travelers should bring their passport, appropriate clothing, and other essential items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Common Questions
What Is the Approximate Group Size for the Tour?
The tour group size is not explicitly stated in the information provided. It does not specify the typical group size for this tour. The tour details focus on the itinerary and logistics rather than group size.
Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour Package?
There’s no mention of an upgrade option for this tour package. The details provided outline the standard inclusions, such as transportation, some meals, and entrance fees. Travelers would need to inquire directly with the tour operator about any upgrade possibilities.
Can We Take a Break During the Tour for Personal Activities?
Guests can take breaks during the tour for personal activities as long as they coordinate with the guide. The schedule allows for some free time at the sites to explore independently.
Is There Any Dress Code or Attire Requirement for the Sites Visited?
The tour sites generally don’t have strict dress codes, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, sun-protective clothing and closed-toe shoes for hiking. Avoid revealing or too casual attire to be respectful of the cultural and religious sites.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Stops?
The tour duration can be extended or additional stops added, but this may incur extra fees. It’s best to discuss any changes directly with the tour operator to ensure availability and pricing.
The Sum Up
This exclusive Sigiriya Sunrise & Kandy Tour offers an immersive experience, showcasing Sri Lanka’s UNESCO-listed wonders. With comfortable transportation, delicious meals, and guided explorations, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through the country’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re admiring the Sigiriya Lion Rock at sunrise or exploring the sacred Tooth Relic, this 14-hour adventure promises an unforgettable day in Sri Lanka.
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