What is the cancellation policy for this tour?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How long does this tour take?

This tour lasts approximately 12 hours.

Where does this tour start?

Meeting point details will be provided in your booking confirmation.

Sri Lanka

Colombo to Sigiriya and Minneriya Safari Day Tour

12 hours

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Overview

Depart Colombo and travel by a shared vehicle, in a small group, to the city of Sigiriya, and head directly to Sigiriya Rock on arrival. Gaze in awe at the massive column of rock that, according to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle The Culavamsa, was selected by King Kassyapa as the site of his new capital.

Admire numerous paintings of historic queens, princesses, and maids inside the rock fortress before getting a break for lunch at your own expense. Then, explore some of the traditional crafts of the region, such as wood carving and batik textiles, with time to purchase souvenirs before departing.

Start the journey back towards Colombo via Dambulla to explore the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Discover the magnificent Buddha images and rock paintings of vivid colors and different shapes, painted from around the 2nd century B.C. up to the 18th-century Kandyan era.

Gallery

Colombo to Sigiriya and Minneriya Safari Day Tour — photo 1

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What's Included

✓ Included

Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle

✗ Not Included

All Fees and Taxes

Itinerary

Stop 1

The first stop is the 5th-century AD rock fortress of Sigiriya, where King Kasyapa once ruled Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion, befitting its name, "Lion Rock." Admire the beautiful, unfading murals that have brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-functioning cisterns, and walk through the tunnels leading to the palace to experience the grandeur of a bygone era.

Stop 2

An ancient civilization, believed to be the epicenter of King Kassapa’s short-lived kingdom. As you journey to the atmospheric Dambulla Cave Temple, take in views of Sri Lanka’s countryside and villages. The Cliffside cave complex at Dambulla, also known as the Golden Temple, dates back to the 1st century BC and is packed with Buddha images and frescoes. Inside the historic caves, view ancient murals depicting the life of Lord Gautama Buddha and marvel at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, the Cave of the Great King, and the Great New Monastery, and see the giant golden Buddha statue just outside the cave complex.

Stop 3

Pidurangala Rock is one of the most rewarding viewpoints in Sri Lanka, located just a few minutes from the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This ancient rock formation offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungle, reservoirs, and the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock rising dramatically in the distance. The climb to the summit is a moderate adventure that takes you through forest paths, stone steps, and a short rock scramble near the top. Along the way, you’ll pass a historic cave temple and a reclining Buddha statue, highlighting the site’s deep spiritual and cultural significance.

Stop 4

Enjoy an exciting 2 hour jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, famous for its large gatherings of wild elephants. Travel through grasslands and around the scenic reservoir while spotting elephants, deer, buffalo, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. This is one of Sri Lanka’s best wildlife experiences, especially during the afternoon when animals are most active.