Kandy; Day Trip to Sigiriya & Dambulla Caves

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, the historic city of Kandy serves as the perfect launching point for an unforgettable day trip to two UNESCO World Heritage sites – Sigiriya and Dambulla. This excursion promises a captivating cultural experience, from scaling the ancient rock fortress to exploring the renowned cave temples adorned with exquisite Buddha statues and murals. With transportation, entrance tickets, and local insights included, travelers can enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich heritage at their own pace.

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Key Points

A day trip from Kandy to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sigiriya and Dambulla Caves, priced at $80.76 per person.
Includes 10-hour excursion with pickup and drop-off from two Kandy hotels, and full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Visitors can explore Sigiriya’s rock fortress and frescoes, and Dambulla’s five cave temples at their own pace.
Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver who offers local insights.
Entrance tickets to both Sigiriya and Dambulla Caves are included in the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla Caves from Kandy is priced from $80.76 per person.

The day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla Caves from Kandy is priced from $80.76 per person.

This 10-hour excursion allows visitors to explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Guests can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers also have the option to reserve now and pay later. Pickup and drop-off at two Kandy hotels are included in the price.

During the trip, guests will visit Sigiriya’s Lion Rock and the ancient Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, spending 1.5-2 hours and 30 minutes at each site, respectively.

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Itinerary Details

The day trip begins with pickup from the hotel in Kandy, within the city limits, at one of two designated locations: Queens Hotel or Mahaweli Reach Hotel.

The first stop is Sigiriya, which is a 2.75-hour drive away. Visitors have 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site.

The next stop is Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a 45-minute drive, where visitors can spend around 30 minutes.

The tour concludes with drop-off at the same hotels where pickup occurred.

Highlights and Activities

This day trip offers the opportunity to visit two renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites – Sigiriya Lion Rock and Dambulla Royal Cave Temple.

Explore these sites at your own pace and learn about the rich history and culture. Climb to the summit of Sigiriya via the Water Gardens and Boulder Gardens, marveling at the ancient frescoes and ruins along the way.

At Dambulla, discover the five magnificent caves, with the 2nd and 3rd caves being the most elegant and oldest in the complex.

The driver provides local insights but doesn’t offer guided explanations at the sites.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Two UNESCO World Heritage sites are the highlights of this day trip: Sigiriya Lion Rock and Dambulla Royal Cave Temple.

Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress, known for its frescoes and water gardens. Visitors can explore the ruins and climb to the summit for stunning views.

Dambulla is home to a complex of five caves containing over 150 Buddha statues and murals. These caves are considered one of the best-preserved cave-temple complexes in Sri Lanka.

Both sites offer a unique glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage and are must-see attractions on this day trip.

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Exploring at Your Own Pace

Although visitors have the flexibility to explore the sites at their own pace, the driver doesn’t climb Sigiriya or provide in-depth explanations at the locations.

This allows travelers to independently discover the sites and enjoy the rich history and cultural significance of Sigiriya and Dambulla.

The driver’s role is to facilitate the smooth transportation and logistics, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The driver’s role is to facilitate the smooth transportation and logistics, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Visitors can take their time to climb Sigiriya, admire the ancient cave temples, and capture memorable photographs, all at their own rhythm and preference.

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Local Insights From the Driver

While the driver may not be a licensed guide for in-depth site explanations, they still provide valuable local insights to enhance the overall experience.

The driver shares their knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and traditions, offering a unique perspective that goes beyond the typical tourist narrative. They point out lesser-known facts, hidden gems, and local customs, giving travelers a more authentic understanding of the destinations.

Their insights add depth and context to the exploration of Sigiriya and Dambulla, making the day trip a more immersive and memorable experience.

Inclusions and Important Notes

The day trip includes transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off service provided. A knowledgeable English-speaking driver is included, who will share local insights but not provide site explanations. Water, parking, and waiting are also provided. Entrance tickets for Sigiriya and Dambulla are included in the price. However, the driver does not climb Sigiriya with you unless specified.

| Inclusions | Notes |

| — | — |

| Transportation | Air-conditioned vehicle |

| Pickup/Drop-off | From Kandy hotels |

| English-speaking Driver | Provides local insights |

| Entrance Tickets | For Sigiriya and Dambulla |

| Water, Parking, Waiting | Provided

Ticket Procurement and Entrance Points

Drivers assist customers with ticket procurement and entrance points at both Sigiriya and Dambulla.

At Sigiriya, they’ll guide visitors through the Water Gardens and Boulder Gardens to the summit.

At Dambulla, drivers help with the 100 LKR donation for shoe storage before exploring the five ancient caves. The most elegant and oldest caves are the 2nd and 3rd in the complex.

Drivers aren’t licensed to provide site explanations, but they share local insights during the journey. Their assistance ensures a seamless experience at these two UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Common Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also opt for the reserve now & pay later option if they need more flexibility.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, travelers can request a private tour instead of a group tour. The tour provider offers a private day trip option from Kandy to Sigiriya and Dambulla caves for an additional fee.

Are There Any Additional Fees Not Included in the Price?

The price includes all the major costs like transportation, entrance tickets, and driver. However, there may be minor additional fees for services like shoe storage at Dambulla caves that are not covered in the base price.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour does not offer customization options. It follows a fixed itinerary, but travelers can explore the sites at their own pace within the given time frame. Any additional requests would need to be arranged separately.

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

Customers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provider does not provide any meals, but they allow guests to carry their own refreshments during the day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla Caves.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Kandy to Sigiriya and Dambulla offers a captivating cultural experience. Visitors can explore the ancient rock fortress, marvel at the magnificent Buddha statues, and gain insights from the knowledgeable driver. With transportation, tickets, and local guidance included, this UNESCO-protected adventure provides a hassle-free way to discover Sri Lanka’s iconic heritage sites.