From Negombo: Sigiriya / Dambulla & Minneriya National Park

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the coastal town of Negombo to explore the rich history and natural wonders of central Sri Lanka. This tour offers a captivating blend of cultural and wildlife experiences, allowing you to explore the country’s ancient heritage and witness the majestic elephants in their natural habitat. Discover the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya rock fortress, marvel at the stunning Dambulla Cave Temple, and learn about Sri Lanka’s aromatic spice heritage. With carefully curated highlights and seamless transportation, this day trip promises an immersive and enriching adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This full-day tour departs from Negombo at 6:00 am and visits the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sigiriya Lion Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple.
• Guests have the option to participate in an elephant safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park, known for its large elephant gatherings.
• The tour includes a visit to a local herbal and spice garden, where guests can learn about Sri Lanka’s diverse botanical treasures and traditional uses.
• Lunch and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver are included in the comprehensive tour package.
• The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring convenience for your.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour covers a diverse range of Sri Lanka’s most captivating sites, including the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, and the wildlife-rich Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.

Departing from Negombo early in the morning, you’ll embark on a day filled with cultural, historical, and natural wonders.

Along the way, you’ll discover local herbs and spices at a spice garden, have the option to go on an elephant safari, and enjoy a delicious Sri Lankan lunch.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reservation process that allows you to pay later, this tour offers a convenient and flexible way to explore the best of Sri Lanka’s attractions.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with an early morning departure from Negombo at 6:00 am, setting the stage for a day filled with captivating discoveries.

First, you’ll visit a local herbal and spice garden to learn about Sri Lanka’s diverse flora.

The highlight of the day is the climb to the top of the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic views and ancient frescoes.

Afterward, you’ll have the option to embark on an elephant safari at either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.

A delicious local lunch will refuel you before exploring the Dambulla Cave Temple, home to impressive murals and statues.

The tour concludes with time for gem and souvenir shopping, reflecting on the cultural treasures encountered.

Departure and Arrival

The tour departs early from Negombo at 6:00 am, kicking off a day of captivating cultural and natural discoveries. Guests are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey.

Along the way, the group will:

• Visit a spice and herbal garden to learn about Sri Lanka’s diverse botanicals.

• Climb the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Enjoy a safari at either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park to spot elephants.

• Explore the ancient cave murals and statues of Dambulla.

• Conclude the day with opportunities for gem and souvenir shopping before returning to Negombo.

Herbal and Spice Garden

A brief stop at a nearby herbal and spice garden allows visitors to discover Sri Lanka’s diverse botanical treasures firsthand, immersing them in the vibrant colors, captivating aromas, and rich cultural heritage of the island’s renowned spices and medicinal plants. Here, guests can explore a lush, verdant oasis and learn about the traditional uses and cultivation of iconic Sri Lankan herbs and spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and cloves. The experience offers a unique opportunity to engage with local experts, who share their knowledge and passion for these integral components of the island’s culinary and holistic traditions.

Spice	Origin	Uses
Cinnamon	Indigenous to Sri Lanka	Cooking, baking, medicine
Cardamom	Native to the Indian subcontinent	Curries, baked goods, tea
Turmeric	Native to Southeast Asia	Cooking, natural dye, medicine
Cloves	Indigenous to the Maluku Islands	Cooking, fragrance, medicine
Nutmeg	Native to the Banda Islands	Cooking, medicine, essential oils

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Sigiriya Lion Rock

Towering above the verdant Sigiriya plain, the majestic Sigiriya Lion Rock stands as a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site, captivating visitors with its ancient splendor and panoramic vistas. This 5th-century fortress and palace complex boasts a remarkable array of features, including:

• Impressive frescoes adorning the Palace’s walls

• The iconic Lion Gate, guarded by the remains of a massive stone lion

• Elaborate water gardens and mirror walls showcasing sophisticated hydraulic engineering

• Archaeological wonders like the Sigiriya Damsels and the Cobra Hood Cave

• Sweeping views from the summit, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the surrounding countryside

Scaling the 1,200 steps to the summit is a challenging yet rewarding experience, providing visitors with a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s captivating past.

Elephant Safari

Visitors can embark on an optional elephant safari within Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park, offering a chance to witness the majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

These national parks are renowned for their large elephant gatherings, especially during the dry season when the animals congregate around the parks’ water sources. Guests can spot elephants roaming freely, feeding, and interacting with one another in their natural environment.

The safari is led by experienced guides who provide insights into the elephants’ behavior and ecology. This unforgettable experience allows travelers to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of Sri Lanka’s iconic elephant population up close, creating lasting memories of their wildlife adventure.

Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features an impressive collection of ancient murals and statues that provide a window into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore five main caves adorned with over 150 Buddha statues, as well as impressive murals depicting religious scenes and historical events.

Key highlights include:

• Colossal Buddha statues, some reaching up to 14 meters in height.

• Well-preserved cave paintings showcasing Sri Lankan life and legends centuries ago.

• Intricate carvings and sculptures that demonstrate the artistry of ancient Sinhalese craftsmen.

• A tranquil atmosphere conducive to quiet reflection and culture.

• Easy access from the Sigiriya Lion Rock, making it a convenient stop on the tour.

Transportation and Inclusions

After exploring the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, the tour moves on to the transportation and inclusions for the day. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver, providing a comfortable and informative journey. Free pickup and drop-off service is available within 15km of Negombo, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to the tour.

The tour also includes the following:

Inclusions	Quantity
Bottled Water	1
King Coconut Water	1
Entrance Fees	All
Safari Jeep	1
Lunch	1

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for your throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is generally suitable for children, though some activities like climbing Sigiriya Rock may not be appropriate for young kids. Parents should consider their children’s abilities and comfort levels when booking this tour.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits animals for the safety and comfort of all participants. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the duration of the tour.

How Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Travelers can customize the itinerary by requesting changes to the main stops, adding or removing activities, adjusting the duration, and selecting their preferred national park for the elephant safari. The tour operator is typically open to tailoring the experience to suit individual preferences.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request additional stops or activities to customize the itinerary and lengthen the tour based on their preferences. The tour operator can accommodate these requests with advanced notice.

Can I Pay in a Different Currency Other Than Euros?

Yes, you can likely pay in a different currency than euros. The tour operator may accept other major currencies like US dollars or British pounds. It’s best to check with them directly about accepted payment methods and currencies.

Recap

Embark on this captivating day trip from Negombo to uncover Sri Lanka’s iconic landmarks.

Explore the majestic Sigiriya Lion Rock, marvel at the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, and witness elephants in their natural habitat at Minneriya National Park.

With a visit to a local spice garden, this tour offers a seamless blend of culture, history, and wildlife, creating an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sri Lanka.

You can check if your dates are available here: