From Kandy: Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress and Village Trip

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Kandy to the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This day trip not only includes a visit to the majestic fortress but also offers a glimpse into traditional Sri Lankan life. Explore a charming village, take a bullock cart ride, and enjoy a serene catamaran boat trip. Discover the rich culture and history of the region as you indulge in a delicious local buffet. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the breathtaking views and ancient ruins.

Key Points

• This 1-day private tour from Kandy takes visitors to the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress and immerses them in a traditional Sri Lankan village experience.
• The tour includes a guided visit to the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya rock fortress, with its steep staircases, ancient palace ruins, and panoramic views.
• Guests will enjoy a bullock cart ride through paddy fields, a catamaran boat ride on a tranquil lake, and a Sri Lankan buffet with a cookery demonstration.
• Optional activities include a Jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, known for its large elephant gatherings.
• The tour is priced at €68.27 per person, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress trip is priced at €68.27 per person and lasts for 1 day.

Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress trip is priced at €68.27 per person and lasts for 1 day.

Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour includes an English-speaking driver and allows customers to reserve their spot and pay later.

The group size is private. The journey starts in Kandy and covers key highlights like the Matale Hindu Temple, Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress, a traditional village tour, and the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple.

An optional Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari is also available.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting in Kandy, the tour takes visitors to several notable destinations, including the Matale Hindu Temple, also known as the Muthumariamman Temple.

Next, it heads to the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning panoramic views.

After exploring Sigiriya, the tour continues to a traditional Sri Lankan village for a bullock cart ride, a catamaran boat ride, and a Sri Lankan buffet featuring local rice and curries.

Optionally, guests can also embark on a Jeep safari in Minneriya National Park to spot wildlife.

Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress

Known as the Eighth Wonder of the World, Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors from around the globe.

This ancient palace and fortress features:

• Steep staircases leading to the summit

• Ruins of the palace, including the Mirror Wall

• Colorful frescoes adorning the rock face

• Panoramic views of the surrounding landscape

Climbing to the top offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and the engineering feats of its ancient residents.

The fortress provides a unique and awe-inspiring experience for all who visit.

Traditional Village Experience

As part of the tour, visitors can enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan village experience.

This includes a bullock cart ride through scenic paddy fields, where travelers can admire the lush greenery and serene rural life. Guests will also enjoy a peaceful catamaran boat ride across a tranquil lake.

At the village, they’ll savor a delicious Sri Lankan buffet featuring authentic rice and curries. Plus, there will be a small cookery demonstration, allowing visitors to learn about local culinary techniques.

Visitors can savor an authentic Sri Lankan buffet and learn about local culinary techniques through a cookery demonstration.

This immersive village experience provides a glimpse into the country’s traditional way of life.

More Great Tours Nearby

Starting Location: Kandy

The tour begins in Kandy, a picturesque city nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka.

This ancient royal capital is renowned for its cultural and religious significance, serving as the home of the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha.

• Explore the vibrant Kandy Market, brimming with local produce, handicrafts, and bustling activity.

• Visit the serene Kandy Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and historic sites.

• Enjoy the rhythmic beats of a Kandyan dance performance, a cultural highlight.

• Discover the impressive Royal Botanical Gardens, showcasing a diverse array of flora.

Matale Hindu Temple (Muthumariamman Temple)

Leaving Kandy, the tour heads north to the historic Matale Hindu Temple, also known as the Muthumariamman Temple.

Dedicated to the goddess Muthumariamman, this ornate temple features intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and a rich cultural heritage.

Dedicated to the goddess Muthumariamman, this ornate temple features intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and a rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the temple’s inner sanctum, admire the exquisite architecture, and learn about the significance of Hindu deities.

The temple grounds also offer a peaceful respite, allowing travelers to enjoy the local spiritual traditions.

This stop provides a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s diverse religious tapestry, complementing the upcoming visits to the iconic Sigiriya and Dambulla sites.

Dambulla Royal Cave Temple

After exploring the vibrant Matale Hindu Temple, the tour continues its journey to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its impressive collection of ancient murals and statues.

The temple features:

• Five main caves housing over 150 Buddhist statues, including a colossal reclining Buddha

• Stunning wall paintings depicting the life of Buddha and religious imagery

• Well-preserved ancient architecture dating back to the 1st century BC

• Panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the temple’s elevated position

Visitors can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this sacred site, considered one of the best-preserved cave temple complexes in Sri Lanka.

Optional: Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari

For those seeking a more adventurous addition to their Sigiriya excursion, an optional Jeep safari through Minneriya National Park offers the chance to witness the awe-inspiring gathering of Asian elephants.

During the dry season, the park’s watering holes attract hundreds of these majestic creatures, creating one of the greatest natural spectacles in Sri Lanka.

The 4-hour safari provides a thrilling opportunity to observe the elephants in their natural habitat, along with other diverse wildlife like deer, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife.

This optional add-on allows visitors to enjoy the untamed beauty of Sri Lanka’s wilderness.

Common Questions

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

Guests are provided with king coconut or bottled water during the tour. However, they are generally allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks, as long as they don’t interfere with the scheduled activities.

Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention accessibility for people with disabilities. Customers should contact the operator to inquire about accommodations, as the tour involves hiking and navigating some rugged terrain at Sigiriya.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari?

The Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari has an age restriction – it’s not suitable for individuals over 95 years old. This is noted in the additional information provided for the overall tour experience.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your preferences. The tour operator allows modifications to the itinerary, such as adding or removing stops, upon request. They’ll work with you to create a personalized experience within the tour’s scope.

What Is the Group Size for the Private Tour?

The private group tour has an English-speaking driver, but the size of the group is not specified. Travelers can inquire about the group size when booking to ensure it meets their preferences.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Kandy takes you on a journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture. Explore the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress, learn about traditional village life, and savor delectable local cuisine. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking vistas, ancient ruins, or cultural experiences, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure that showcases the best of Sri Lanka.

You can check availability for your dates here: