From Kandy: Sigiriya Day Tour With Elephant Safari(Group)

Exploring the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of Sri Lanka, the Sigiriya Day Tour with Elephant Safari from Kandy offers an enriching experience. Priced at $22 per group, this tour takes visitors through significant sites like the Matale Hindu Temple, a spice garden, and the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple. The highlight, however, is the challenging climb up the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, followed by an optional elephant safari. With comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• The Sigiriya Day Tour with Elephant Safari departs from Kandy and is priced at $22.00 per group (up to 1 person).
• The tour includes visits to a Hindu temple, spice garden, woodcarving factory, Dambulla Cave Temple, and the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock.
• The tour is limited to small groups of 8 participants with pick-up at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Queen’s Hotel.
• Included services cover transportation, a local English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a complimentary 1-liter water bottle.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users, and guests must arrive one hour before the 7:30 AM departure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Sigiriya Day Tour with Elephant Safari is a group tour that departs from Kandy. Priced from $22.00 per group (up to 1 person), it lasts one day and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is limited to small groups of 8 participants. Pick-up locations include the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Queen’s Hotel in Kandy.

The day includes visits to a Hindu temple, spice garden, woodcarving factory, Dambulla Cave Temple, and the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock.

Customers can also enjoy an afternoon elephant safari at Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Habarana Eco Park.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Matale Hindu Temple, where participants spend around 15 minutes exploring the ornate architecture and cultural significance.

Next, the group ventures to a spice and herbal garden, seeing the aromatic world of local flora for an hour.

They then tour a woodcarving factory, observing the skilled craftsmanship.

The highlight is the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, where visitors spend an hour marveling at the impressive rock carvings.

Visitors spend an hour marveling at the impressive rock carvings of the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple.

The day culminates with the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock climb, a 2.5-hour adventure.

Finally, an optional afternoon elephant safari in Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Habarana Eco Park completes the day.

Included Services

This tour package includes a range of services to enhance the overall experience.

Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned vehicle, and a local English-speaking guide accompanies the group.

Entrance fees to the Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Lion Rock, village tour safari, Minneriya National Park, and Eco Park Elephant safari are all covered.

A complimentary 1-liter water bottle is also provided.

Gratuities for the guide and driver are optional.

With these inclusive services, travelers can focus on enjoying the tour’s highlights without worrying about additional costs.

Important Tour Information

Punctuality is key for this tour. Guests must arrive one hour before the 7:30 AM departure time. Late arrivals will miss the tour with no refunds.

It’s also important to contact Padraig Lanka Tour (Pvt) Ltd via WhatsApp the day before to confirm details.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the moderate walking involved.

Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, as are a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Recommendations and Requirements

Comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for this tour.

Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, as moderate walking is involved.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Tour operators advise guests to contact them via WhatsApp the day before the tour to confirm details.

Following these recommendations and requirements will ensure a smooth and enjoyable Sigiriya Day Tour with Elephant Safari experience.

Matale Hindu Temple Visit

The tour begins with a visit to the Matale Hindu Temple, located approximately 1.5 hours from Kandy. This sacred site dates back centuries and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Visitors can expect to:

1. Marvel at the ornate, colorful architecture and intricate carvings that adorn the temple.

2. Observe Hindu devotees engaged in prayer and rituals.

3. Learn about the cultural significance and history of this important religious site.

4. Savor the tranquil atmosphere and soak in the spiritual energy that permeates the temple grounds.

The visit lasts around 15 minutes, allowing ample time to explore and appreciate this captivating Hindu temple.

Spice and Herbal Garden Exploration

Next, the tour explores a spice and herbal garden for around an hour.

Guests can wander through the lush greenery, learning about the various spices and herbs cultivated here. The guide provides insights into the traditional uses and health benefits of ingredients like cinnamon, cardamom, lemongrass, and turmeric.

Visitors have the chance to purchase fresh spices and herbal products directly from the local farmers. This educational experience showcases Sri Lanka’s rich botanical heritage and the importance of these natural resources in the country’s culture and cuisine.

Afternoon Elephant Safari Options

After exploring the spice and herbal gardens, guests can choose from several afternoon elephant safari options.

The tour includes a 4-hour safari in either Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Habarana Eco Park.

These national parks offer:

1. A chance to see majestic Asian elephants in their natural habitat.

2. Diverse wildlife, including deer, monkeys, and exotic birds.

3. Scenic landscapes with lakes, forests, and grasslands.

4. A guided tour to maximize the wildlife viewing experience.

The safari is a perfect way to cap off a day of cultural and natural discoveries in Sri Lanka’s Sigiriya region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Join the Tour With My Family Members?

Yes, you can join the tour with your family members. The tour is suitable for groups, with a small group size limited to 8 participants. You’ll need to reserve spots for everyone in your party.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guide is fluent in English, but the tour may not provide multi-lingual services. It’s best to inquire about the guide’s language capabilities if you have specific needs beyond English.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a 1-liter water bottle per person, but you’re welcome to pack additional snacks or beverages to enjoy during the day.

How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?

The tour allows participants to bring a reasonable amount of personal luggage. However, it’s recommended to pack light and only bring essentials, as storage space on the vehicle may be limited. Participants should avoid bringing large or bulky items.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration on this specific package. The tour is a 1-day itinerary, and the pricing and inclusions are fixed. Extending the duration would require booking a separate, customized tour.

The Sum Up

The Sigiriya Day Tour from Kandy offers an immersive cultural and natural experience in Sri Lanka. Visitors can explore ancient temples, discover the secrets of spice gardens, and embark on an optional elephant safari. With comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guidance, this tour provides an enriching and unforgettable way to discover the highlights of the region.

You can check availability for your dates here: