Set out on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures with the Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Tour from Bentota. Explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its stunning frescoes and breathtaking views after conquering 1,250 steps. Then, uncover the rich heritage of the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO-listed wonder adorned with over 150 Buddha statues. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and guided assistance, as you learn about Sri Lanka’s timeless wonders. The experience may just leave you yearning to discover more of this enchanting island nation.
Key Points
• A full-day tour from Bentota to the historic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple, with transportation, English-speaking guide, and admission assistance provided.
• The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Bentota, as well as bottled water and king coconut during the journey.
• Key highlights of the tour are climbing the 1,250 steps to the top of Sigiriya Rock, exploring the ancient Buddhist cave temples in Dambulla, and experiencing traditional Sri Lankan crafts.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back/heart issues, allergies, or recent surgeries, due to the moderate physical activity involved.
• Guests are responsible for their own lunch expenses, and optional wildlife safaris in nearby national parks can be arranged at an additional cost.
You can check if your dates are available here:Tour Overview and Pricing
This Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Tour from Bentota is priced from $95.00 per person and lasts approximately 16 hours.
It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve your spot now and pay later.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned private transportation, an English-speaking driver, bottled water, and guide assistance at Sigiriya Lion Rock.
You’ll also receive a complimentary king coconut.
However, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back/heart problems, allergies, or recent surgeries.
Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and rain gear, and to dress appropriately for the temples.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sigiriya Lion Rock.
Itinerary Highlights
Commencing with hotel pickup in Bentota, the tour takes visitors to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, where they can admire ancient paintings and climb 1,250 steps to the summit. After a lunch break at their own expense, the tour explores traditional crafts like wood carving and batik textiles before continuing to the Dambulla Cave Temple to discover its impressive Buddha images and rock paintings. Visitors may also opt for an additional wildlife safari at Eco Park, Kaudulla, or Minneriya National Park, though this incurs extra charges.
| Itinerary Highlights | ||
|---|---|---|
| Sigiriya Rock Fortress | Admire ancient paintings | Climb 1,250 stairs |
| Lunch break | Own expense | – |
| Traditional crafts | Wood carving | Batik textiles |
| Dambulla Cave Temple | Discover Buddha images | Explore rock paintings |
| Optional wildlife safari | Eco Park | Kaudulla, Minneriya National Park |
Inclusions and Transportation
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned private vehicle, whether a car, van, or bus.
An English-speaking driver accompanies the group, and bottled water is provided. Visitors also receive guide assistance at the Sigiriya Lion Rock in English, German, French, and Spanish, and a complimentary king coconut is included.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back/heart problems, allergies, or recent surgeries.
Guests are advised to bring essential items such as a passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, cash, and binoculars.
Certain items and behaviors are prohibited for safety and cultural reasons.
Important Information and Recommendations
Guests are advised to bring essential items such as a passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, cash, and binoculars.
The dress code for this tour requires removing shoes and hats at temples, and covering shoulders and knees. Moderate walking is involved, and guests should prepare for climbing 1250 stairs at Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Smoking, alcohol, glass objects, fireworks, and nudity aren’t allowed. Respectful behavior is expected at temples, and guests should avoid standing with their back to Buddha statues.
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and alternative dates will be offered if it’s canceled.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPickup and Drop-off
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with transportation provided in an air-conditioned private vehicle, be it a car, van, or bus. An English-speaking driver will transport you throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
The pickup location is your hotel in Bentota, providing the utmost convenience.
After exploring the highlights, you’ll be returned to your Bentota hotel, allowing you to unwind at the end of the day.
This door-to-door service eliminates the need for complicated logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights and experiences.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Towering above the lush greenery, Sigiriya Rock Fortress captivates visitors with its majestic presence and intriguing history. Ascending the 1,250 steps to the summit, guests are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, they’ll encounter the remnants of an ancient palace, explore the famous frescoes depicting beautiful maidens, and marvel at the impressive water gardens below. The following table provides key details about Sigiriya Rock Fortress:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Height | 200 meters (660 feet) |
| Construction | 5th century AD |
| Significance | Former royal capital and fortress |
| Highlights | Frescoes, water gardens, boulder gardens |
Sigiriya’s combination of natural grandeur and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Sri Lanka.
Dambulla Cave Temple
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, Dambulla Cave Temple stands as a remarkable testament to the nation’s rich Buddhist heritage. Carved into the side of a massive rock outcrop, this UNESCO World Heritage Site houses an impressive collection of over 150 Buddha statues and ancient murals that span centuries of devotion and artistic expression.
Visitors can explore five interconnected cave sanctuaries, each adorned with intricate paintings and sculptures that depict the life of Buddha and various deities. The temple’s unique location and well-preserved artworks make it a must-see destination for anyone seeking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s storied past.
The caves were first used as a refuge for King Valagamba in the 1st century BCE, showcasing the temple’s longstanding significance.
The temple’s largest statue, a colossal 14-meter-tall Buddha, is a stunning example of Sri Lankan sculptural mastery.
Dambulla Cave Temple’s striking natural setting, combined with its rich cultural history, makes it a truly awe-inspiring experience for all who visit.
Additional Considerations
When planning your Sigiriya and Dambulla day tour, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Firstly, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the temples, which requires removing shoes and hats, and covering shoulders and knees.
Plus, respectful behavior is expected, such as avoiding standing with your back to Buddha statues.
The tour may be subject to weather conditions, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in case of cancellations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Under 12 Participate in the Tour?
Children under 12 can participate in the tour, but the tour may not be suitable for them. Pregnant women, individuals with health issues, and those with allergies or recent surgeries are not recommended to join the tour.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour duration. Customers can arrange for additional time at the sites or include a stop at another destination. The tour operator should be contacted to discuss customized itinerary options and pricing.
What Languages Can the Guide Provide Assistance In?
According to the tour information, the guide can provide assistance in English, German, French, and Spanish at the Sigiriya Lion Rock attraction. The guide’s language capabilities cater to the needs of international travelers on this day tour.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Preferences Available?
The tour does not specifically address dietary restrictions or preferences. Travelers should notify the tour provider of any special dietary needs in advance to determine if accommodations can be made.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional stops. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who can tailor the itinerary to meet their specific interests and needs within the allotted time frame.
Recap
The Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Tour from Bentota offers an opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
Visitors can marvel at the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, ascend its 1,250 steps, and discover the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple.
With convenient transportation, guided assistance, and immersion in the country’s treasures, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to experience the wonders of Sri Lanka.
You can check if your dates are available here: