Kandy: Sigiriya Fortress & Cave Temple Full Day Private Tour

Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka can be a captivating experience. The Kandy: Sigiriya Fortress & Cave Temple Full Day Private Tour offers an immersive journey through the country’s iconic landmarks. Visitors will explore the intricate history and stunning natural beauty that make this destination so alluring. From the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Fortress to the captivating Dambulla Cave Temple, this comprehensive tour promises an enriching adventure for those seeking to uncover the hidden gems of Sri Lanka.

Key Points

• This private full-day tour from Kandy or Peradeniya offers visits to the iconic Sigiriya Fortress and the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and all entry fees, priced from $90 per person.
• Highlights include a 2-hour guided tour of Sigiriya Fortress, a 2-hour exploration of the Dambulla Cave Temple, and a 1-hour visit to a spice garden.
• The Sigiriya Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features panoramic views from the summit and famous frescoes on the Mirror Wall.
• The Dambulla Cave Temple, established in the 1st century BCE, showcases over 150 Buddha statues and intricate wall paintings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour from Kandy or Peradeniya takes visitors to explore the iconic Sigiriya Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple.

Priced from $90 per person, the tour lasts 12 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include a spice garden visit, lunch at Tropical Village Hotel, and guided tours of the Sigiriya Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple complex.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and all entry fees.

Visitors should bring a passport, sun protection, and dress appropriately for the temples.

The tour has an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 27 reviews.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour starts with a pickup from either Kandy or Peradeniya.

Guests first visit a spice garden in Matale, spending an hour learning about local spices.

Visitors spend an hour exploring a spice garden in Matale, learning about the local aromatic spices.

Next, they explore the Dambulla cave temple complex for 2 hours.

After, they enjoy a 1-hour buffet lunch at the Tropical Village Hotel.

The highlight is a guided 2-hour tour of the Sigiriya Fortress, a golden-hued rock fortress chosen by King Kasyapa.

The tour then returns guests to their starting point in Kandy or Peradeniya.

Sigiriya Fortress

Towering majestically over the surrounding landscape, Sigiriya Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws visitors from around the world.

This golden-hued rock fortress was once the palace of King Kasyapa, who ruled in the 5th century. Visitors can climb the 1,200 steps to the summit, which offers stunning panoramic views of the countryside.

Along the way, they’ll see the famous frescoes and the impressive Mirror Wall. With its unique architecture and historical significance, Sigiriya Fortress is a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the cultural wonders of Sri Lanka.

Dambulla Cave Temple

Five magnificent cave temples tucked within the Dambulla Cave Temple complex offer a remarkable glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage. Established in the 1st century BCE, the temple houses over 150 Buddha statues, impressive wall paintings, and a 14-meter-tall Buddha statue. Visitors can explore the caves at their own pace, taking in the intricate carvings and murals that depict important events from Buddhist scriptures.

| Cave | Key Attractions |

| — | — |

| Cave 1 | Largest Buddha statue, 14 meters high |

| Cave 2 | Impressive murals depicting Buddhist mythology |

| Cave 5 | Ornate Buddha statues and intricate rock carvings |

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Spice Garden

As visitors approach the spice garden, they discover a lush oasis showcasing an array of vibrant spices indigenous to Sri Lanka.

The tour allows guests to:

Explore the different spice plants, witness live demonstrations, sample fresh spices, and discover their aromatic complexity.

• Explore the different spice plants and learn about their unique properties and traditional uses.

• Witness live demonstrations of spice processing techniques.

• Sample fresh spices and discover their aromatic complexity.

• Peruse the on-site shop for a variety of spice-infused products to take home.

• Gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of spices in Sri Lankan cuisine and culture.

Lunch at Tropical Village Hotel

After exploring the vibrant spice garden, the tour participants are guided to the Tropical Village Hotel for lunch.

The hotel provides a buffet spread featuring local Sri Lankan cuisine. Guests can sample an array of rice dishes, curries, vegetables, and traditional sweetmeats.

The setting is casual and comfortable, allowing travelers to relax and refuel before the next leg of the tour. The lunch break lasts approximately one hour, giving everyone ample time to enjoy the meal at their own pace.

This hearty lunch provides the energy needed for the upcoming visit to the iconic Sigiriya Fortress.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a visit to a spice garden, an English-speaking local guide, a buffet lunch, water bottles and snacks, parking fees, all government taxes, and tips for the guides.

The tour provides:

• Hassle-free transportation to and from your hotel

• Insight into local spices and their uses

• Expert guidance from a knowledgeable local

• A delicious lunch to refuel during the day

• Refreshments to keep you hydrated

All necessary fees and gratuities are covered, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Travel Information

Travelers must have a valid passport on the day of travel. Appropriate attire is required when visiting temples – remove footwear and hats, cover shoulders and knees. Bringing sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera is recommended. Pets and smoking are not allowed.

| What to Bring | What Not to Bring |

|————–|——————-|

| Passport/ID | Pets |

| Sunglasses | Smoking |

| Sun hat | |

| Camera | |

| Comfortable clothing | |

Common Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, most private tours can be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. Customers can discuss with the tour operator to modify the itinerary, activities, or pace of the tour based on their interests and needs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer discounts for children or seniors. However, they may be willing to provide a discount for larger group sizes. It’s best to inquire directly to see if any special pricing is available.

Can I Pay With a Credit Card or Is Cash Only Accepted?

Guests can pay for the tour using a credit card. Cash is also accepted. The tour operator accepts all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, providing convenient payment options for travellers.

How Strenuous Is the Hike to the Top of Sigiriya Fortress?

The hike to the top of Sigiriya Fortress is moderately strenuous, involving over 1,200 steps. It’s a challenging but rewarding climb, with impressive views from the summit. Visitors should be reasonably fit and wear comfortable shoes to tackle the ascent.

Is There an Option to Visit Additional Sites Not Included in the Itinerary?

The tour offers a set itinerary, but customers can inquire about adding optional visits to other nearby sites not included, such as Polonnaruwa or Minneriya National Park, for an additional cost. Customization options may be available upon request.

The Sum Up

The Kandy: Sigiriya Fortress & Cave Temple Full Day Private Tour offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the breathtaking Sigiriya Fortress, discover the ancient murals and Buddha statues of the Dambulla Cave Temple, and learn about indigenous spices at a lush spice garden. With an English-speaking guide, this comprehensive tour provides a deeply enriching experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: