From Galle/Bentota: Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Two Day Trip

Exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural heart is made easy with this two-day trip from Galle or Bentota. Travelers will discover the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the historic Dambulla Cave Temple Complex, enjoying scenic landscapes, traditional crafts, and delicious local cuisine along the way. With flexible options and personalized experiences, this adventure promises unforgettable memories. What makes this journey truly unique is the chance to…

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Key Points

A two-day trip from Galle/Bentota to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple, priced from $350 per person with free cancellation 24 hours in advance.
Includes hotel pickup, transportation, one night’s stay near Sigiriya, English-speaking driver, and lunch, but excludes meals, entrance fees, and gratuities.
Allows for exploration of traditional Sri Lankan crafts such as wood carvings, batik textiles, handloom weaving, and jewelry during the trip.
Not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or mobility impairments due to health and mobility restrictions.
Requires a current valid passport, comfortable shoes, and modest clothing when visiting temples, with shoes and hats to be removed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This two-day trip from Galle/Bentota takes visitors to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temple Complex.

Priced from $350 per person, it offers free cancellation 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

The 2-day tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, an English-speaking driver, and one night’s stay near Sigiriya.

Lunch is provided, but other meals, entrance fees, and gratuities aren’t included.

The tour caters to various language speakers, including English, German, French, and Russian.

Certain health and mobility restrictions apply.

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Itinerary Highlights

The two-day itinerary begins with pickup from accommodations in Galle or Bentota.

Travelers will visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 200-meter-tall ancient palace and fortress. Inside, they’ll admire the historic paintings of queens and maids.

After a lunch break, the journey continues to explore traditional crafts like wood carving and batik textiles.

Next, they’ll discover the Dambulla Cave Temple Complex, featuring Buddha images and rock paintings dating back to the 2nd century BC.

The trip ends with a return to the original accommodations in Galle, Bentota or Hikkaduwa.

Inclusions

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle (car, van, or bus), and an English-speaking driver.

Additional inclusions are:

Bottled water
One night stay at a Sigiriya hotel with a BB A/C room
Food and drinks not included
Entrance fees not included
Gratuities not included

While the package provides comfortable transportation and accommodation, guests are responsible for their own meals, tickets, and tips.

This allows for flexibility and personalization during the two-day Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla excursion.

Important Information

Not everyone may be able to comfortably undertake this two-day trip.

It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat.

They’ll need to remove shoes and hats when visiting temples, and wear clothes that cover their shoulders and knees.

A current valid passport is required on the travel day.

The tour may be subject to weather conditions, and an alternative date will be provided if it’s canceled.

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Pickup and Accommodation

After being picked up from their accommodation in Galle or Bentota, travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to Sigiriya.

The package includes:

Hotel stay at a Sigiriya hotel with a bed and breakfast (BB) air-conditioned room
Bottled water provided during the trip
No food and drinks included, but lunch will be provided
No gratuities or entrance fees included
Not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility issues, or wheelchair users

Return transportation to the original accommodation in Galle, Bentota, or Hikkaduwa is also provided at the end of the two-day trip.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Sigiriya

Visiting Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya Rock Fortress stands tall at 200 meters, chosen by King Kasyapa as the location for his capital during the 5th century AD.

Visitors can admire the historic paintings of queens and maids within the fortress. The ascent to the summit offers stunning panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

Along the way, guests will discover the remains of the royal gardens, irrigation canals, and other architectural wonders. Lunch is included, providing an opportunity to refuel before continuing the exploration.

This iconic site provides a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and ancient history.

Exploring Dambulla Cave Temple

After visiting the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the tour continues to the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple Complex.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the complex features a series of five caves containing over 150 Buddhist statues and stunning wall paintings.

Visitors can explore:

Massive Buddha statues, including a 47-foot-long reclining Buddha
Intricate frescoes depicting Buddhist mythology and the life of Buddha
Ancient cave inscriptions from the 1st century BC
A mix of architectural styles from different eras
A peaceful, spiritual atmosphere perfect for contemplation

Traditional Crafts and Souvenirs

Along the journey, travelers have the opportunity to explore traditional Sri Lankan crafts and purchase unique souvenirs. Local artisans showcase an array of handmade products, from intricate wood carvings to vibrant batik textiles. The following table highlights some of the popular craft items available:

| Craft | Description | Price Range |

| — | — | — |

| Wood Carving | Figurines, masks, and décor | $10 – $50 |

| Batik Textiles | Scarves, wall hangings, clothing | $15 – $75 |

| Handloom Weaving | Rugs, throws, and pillow covers | $20 – $100 |

| Jewelry | Gems, silver, and semi-precious stones | $5 – $150 |

These traditional crafts make for wonderful mementos and support local artisans.

Common Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Trip?

The trip doesn’t specify a minimum group size. It’s a private tour, so travelers can book it individually or with a group as desired. The pricing is per person, so the group size doesn’t affect the cost.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?

The tour does not explicitly mention vegetarian or vegan meal options. However, as Sri Lankan cuisine offers various plant-based dishes, travellers with dietary restrictions can likely request accommodations when booking or upon arrival.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a private group. The provider offers customizable options for private tours, which allow for more flexibility in the itinerary and group size. Inquire about availability and pricing for a private group booking.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

The tour includes bottled water, but travelers will need to bring their own snacks and additional drinks. It’s recommended to pack light, portable snacks to have on hand during the day.

How Strenuous Is the Climb to the Top of Sigiriya Rock?

The climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock is moderately strenuous, involving over 1,200 steps and steep sections. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or back problems. Visitors should be prepared with sturdy shoes and take breaks as needed.

The Sum Up

This captivating two-day trip from Galle or Bentota provides a chance to explore Sri Lanka’s iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple Complex. With personalized experiences, breathtaking views, and culture, it promises unforgettable memories in the country’s scenic landscapes. Priced from $350 per person, the journey includes hotel pickup, comfortable transportation, and an overnight stay near Sigiriya, making it a convenient and immersive adventure.