Negombo/ Colombo: All Inclusive Sigiriya & Polonnaruwa Day

Exploring Sri Lanka’s ancient wonders just got easier with the all-inclusive Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa day trip. Departing from Negombo or Colombo, this 12-hour adventure whisks travelers to two UNESCO-protected sites, showcasing the island’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this tour promises to leave you captivated. With a guided exploration of Polonnaruwa’s royal palace and the challenging climb up Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the day’s itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure and discovery.

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Key Points

All-inclusive day trip from Negombo or Colombo to explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa, priced at $170 per person.
Tour duration is 12 hours, with complimentary hotel pickup, transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional English or German-speaking guide.
Key highlights include the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and the iconic Parakramabahu Statue in Polonnaruwa, as well as the 1,200-step climb up Sigiriya Rock.
Lunch, entrance fees, and all taxes are included in the tour price, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
The tour is not recommended for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with vertigo due to the challenging Sigiriya Rock climb.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This all-inclusive day trip from Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya Rock Fortress is priced from $170.00 per person.

The 12-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

Travelers will be picked up from their hotel in Colombo, Mount Lavinia, Negombo, Wattala, or Katunayake.

The tour includes guided visits to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa, followed by the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and all taxes are covered in the tour price.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The day begins with a 05:30 hotel pickup from Colombo, Mount Lavinia, Negombo, Wattala, or Katunayake.

The tour arrives at Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at 10:00. A 3.5-hour guided tour follows, showcasing the Royal Palace, Nissankamulla Palace, Gal Viharaya, Thuparama Stupa, Lankathilaka Stupa, Vatadage, Rankoth Vehera, and the Parakramabahu Statue.

At 14:30, the group climbs the 1200 steps of Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

The tour concludes with a return to the hotel around 17:00.

Hotel Pick-up and Transportation

A complimentary hotel pickup service is provided for this all-inclusive day trip from Colombo, Mount Lavinia, Negombo, Wattala, or Katunayake.

You’ll be transported in a luxurious, air-conditioned private vehicle, with a professional English or German-speaking guide. The fuel surcharge, driver charges, and parking fees are all included in the tour price.

Refreshments and bottled water will be provided throughout the journey. This seamless transportation ensures a hassle-free experience as you explore the UNESCO-listed wonders of Polonnaruwa and the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Exploring Polonnaruwa

Your adventure continues as the group arrives at the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The 3.5-hour guided tour showcases the magnificent Royal Palace, the intricate Nissankamalla Palace, and the impressive Gal Vihara – a collection of four massive Buddha statues carved from a single granite outcrop.

The group explores the towering Thuparama Stupa, the serene Lankathilaka, and the unique Vatadage.

At the Rankoth Vehera, they marvel at the sheer size of this massive stupa.

The tour concludes with a visit to the iconic Parakramabahu Statue, leaving the group in awe of Polonnaruwa’s remarkable ancient heritage.

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The Climb up Sigiriya Rock Fortress

After exploring the ancient wonders of Polonnaruwa, the group heads to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 1200-step climb to the summit challenges even the most fit. Stepping carefully, visitors ascend through the landscaped gardens, past the ancient frescoes, and up the steep spiral staircase. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, revealing the surrounding countryside and the remarkable symmetry of Sigiriya’s layout. Though demanding, the climb rewards visitors with a deeper appreciation of this engineering marvel and the ingenuity of its creators.

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Inclusions and Amenities

The tour package includes a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.

Travelers are transported in an air-conditioned luxury private vehicle with an English/German speaking guide. Complimentary refreshments and water are provided, and all fuel surcharges, driver charges, and parking fees are included.

Plus, the tour package covers the entrance fees to both Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Polonnaruwa, as well as a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. All government taxes are also included, making this an all-inclusive and hassle-free day trip.

Air-conditioned luxury private vehicle
English/German speaking guide
Complimentary refreshments and water
Entrance fees to Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa
Lunch at a local restaurant

Important Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, there are a few important considerations for potential participants.

The climb up Sigiriya Rock involves 1,200 steps, making it unsuitable for children under 8, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo. Comfortable shoes and staying hydrated are essential.

Photography is allowed, but drones are prohibited. Certain areas restrict smoking and food/drink consumption.

Travelers should be prepared for a significant amount of walking and climbing during the tour. However, the reserve now and pay later option provides flexibility for those with uncertain plans.

Booking and Flexibility

Travelers can conveniently reserve this tour now and pay later, providing flexibility for those with uncertain plans. The tour operator offers a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, allowing customers to secure their spot with no upfront payment. This can be especially helpful for those finalizing their travel itinerary.

Some key booking and flexibility highlights include:

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Flexible payment options with the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" feature
Ability to accommodate last-minute changes or unexpected scheduling conflicts
Easy online booking process with no hidden fees
Seamless refunds if plans change unexpectedly

Common Questions

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

You’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks on the tour, though complimentary refreshments and water are provided. Just be mindful of any restrictions in certain areas of the sites visited.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Sigiriya Rock Climb?

There’s no specified weight limit for the Sigiriya Rock climb, but it’s not recommended for young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to the 1,200-step ascent. Travelers should be prepared for the physical demands of the climb.

Can I Cancel the Tour After the 24-Hour Window?

Unfortunately, cancellations after the 24-hour window are not eligible for a full refund. However, the tour operator may offer a partial refund or the option to reschedule, subject to availability and their cancellation policy.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour operator offers discounted group rates for bookings of 4 or more people. Guests can save up to 10% off the per-person price by booking as a group. The exact discount amount depends on the group size.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad During the Tour?

If the weather is bad, the tour will proceed as scheduled. The company provides raincoats and umbrellas to ensure guests’ comfort. Guests are advised to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. A flexible itinerary ensures the tour runs smoothly regardless of weather conditions.

The Sum Up

This all-inclusive day trip from Negombo or Colombo offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Travelers will be captivated by the UNESCO-listed wonders of Polonnaruwa and the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, all while enjoying convenient transportation, a delicious lunch, and expert guidance. It’s an unforgettable experience that showcases the country’s natural beauty and historical significance.