From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari
Badge of Excellence
Colombo, Sri Lanka
- 12 to 14 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Climb to the ruins on Sigiriya Rock and explore the Buddha-statue-packed caves of Dambulla—this small-group tour from Colombo removes the stress from visiting two of Sri Lanka’s highlights. Settle into an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver-guide, and admire the scenery on route into the island’s lush heartlands. Visit Dambulla and then stop at Sigiriya, where you can climb the rock or just stroll its gardens. Admissions are at your own expense.
- Visit Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla’s temples on a day trip from Colombo
- Experience two UNESCO-listed sites with ease and a driver-guide for info
- See Dambulla’s Buddha-filled caves and ascend to Sigiriya’s ruins
- Maximum 15 travelers with return transport included; entry fees at own cost
What's Included
- Bottled water
- English Speaking Driver cum Guide
- Hotel pickup and drop off by air conditioned vehicle
- Complimentary Wifi Access During the Travel Subject To Availability
- Guide Assistance in Sigiriya Lion Rock ( English,German, French, Spanish )
- Seasonal fruits - subject to available
- King Coconut - subject to available
- Food and Beverages, unless specified
- Gratuities
- Entrance Fees Sigiriya USD 36 & Cave Temple USD 8
- Entrance fee - Sigiriya lion rock$35.00 per person
- Entrance fee - Dambulla Cave Temple$8.00 per person
- BreakfastCoffee, Juice and etc need to pay as per your choice
- LunchCoffee, Beer, Juice and etc need to pay as per your choice
- Entrance fee - National Park safari$50.00 per person
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
* Pick up offered for Colombo city only, if you need pick other than Colombo city, Please contact the operator. pick up can be made with additional charge * Operator for further Assistance-Additional charges may Apply * If the drop off location different from pick up location, please contact the operator additional charges may apply * Kindly provide the WhatsApp contact details - for Better and fast communication * Arrive at the hotel lobby 10 minutes before your selected pick up time * Operator will reconfirm your pick-up time in advance * This is a shared transfer and early or late pick-up is not possible
Operating hours.6:00 am
Itinerary
Colombo (Pass By)
1
Cafe Amakie
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
2
Dambulla Cave Temple
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
3
Golden Temple of Dambulla
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre (Pass By)
Sigiriya Museum (Pass By)
4
Sigiriya Lion Rock
2 hours • Admission Ticket Not Included
5
Oakray Woodcarvings
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended for this tour.
- All visitors to Buddhist and Hindu temples are expected to remove footwear and hats. Also shoulders and knees should be covered
- The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date
- Entrance need to pay directly and please bring cash to avoid the delay
- If you need to withdraw cash by ATM please advice to Driver or Guide about that earlier
- Cave temple - 2000 must pay by local rupees / card payment and USD cash not accepted
- Sigiriya 11,000 rupees (around 35 USD) in payment can be done by card and USD cash
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.5
based on 135 reviews
Ashley_B, Mar 2026
A great trip. Krish and the team were awesome. Everything was super organized and the sights were well worth the drive! Would def recommend for solos.
Ielyzaveta_V, Jan 2026
What a mind-blowing tour! From visiting caves, to climbing Sigiriya and seeing baby elephants during the safari tour - I had such a great time exploring Sri Lanka with this company.
Puja_S, Dec 2025
The day is really cool, but also really, really long. We started at 545am with a 3 hour drive to the cave temples, which require walking up 249 steps. This isn’t bad, but some of the steps on the way down are just a rocky slope. There is a railing but an older lady in our group did have some difficulty. Then, we went on to climb the mountain. We were told it’s about 1250 steps, but this is inaccurate bc once you get up there you’re climbing up and down other stairs. To do this climb, they transferred us to a different guide who only let us stop twice, long enough to grab a photo of each person at the viewpoint. I am prone to heat exhaustion in humid weather like this and could feel myself starting to get affected so I took it upon myself to go much slower. The lunch afterwards was pretty good.
Lastly, there’s the option of doing either a village tour or safari. Most of our group chose the safari. You’re transferred to a jeep and are basically off-roading for over two hours on unpaved dirt roads in a park. It was def cool to see elephants and buffalo, but the constant jolting gave me a headache. You’re able to stand up in the jeep to see through the roof, but they put 3 of us in the back and there wasn’t enough room for 3 ppl to comfortably stand.
We arrived home at 10:45 — so an incredibly long day. Props to our main guide for driving. He was knowledgeable about the sights and areas, and also really funny. All in all, I’d recommend the tour but def be prepared.
James_T, Sep 2025
It is s 4 hour ride one way. Your time at the sites is limited because if this. If you take the safari you do not return to Colombo until 22:00 or later. Keep in mind that it is an 06:00 start!
The sites are interesting. Sigiriya from a gelogic point of view id something rare. The magma core of an ancient vocano. The tour guides do not tell you this.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Dear James_T,
Thank you for sharing your feedback on the Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip with Safari. We truly appreciate your honesty and are glad to know you found the sites themselves — especially the fascinating geological story of Sigiriya — interesting and worthwhile.
We understand that it’s a long day trip due to the distance from Colombo, and we always recommend this tour for travelers who prefer to see Sri Lanka’s UNESCO highlights in a single day. However, we also offer overnight options or customized itineraries with more time at each site for a relaxed experience.
Your note about the geological history of Sigiriya is well taken — we’ll make sure our guides include this unique insight in future briefings. Thank you once again for helping us improve, and we hope to welcome you back for a more leisurely tour next time.
Kandy_C, Aug 2025
I had wonderful time in Kandy and Seegiriya with Mr. Dhanesh. Everything was just perfect. Mr. Dhanesh is simply the best. I highly recommend this tour :)
Response from Host, Aug 2025
That’s such a lovely review! Thank you for sharing your experience, We’re so glad to hear you had a wonderful time in Kandy and Sigiriya with Mr. Dhanesh. He will be very happy to know that his efforts made your trip perfect. We look forward to welcoming you again on another tour!
Georsadd_G, Jan 2025
A very long drive back and forth so be sure you're up for it. Both Dambula and Sigriya are very busy sites during our visit - so make sure you're also up for it. The driver was not very patient with one of the guests we're with - he was even arguing with the guest while driving. To be fair, that was not a very easy guest. Views below Sigriya and on top is amazing!
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Dear Georsadd_G,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re glad to hear that you enjoyed the breathtaking views from Sigiriya Rock and appreciated the experience at Dambulla Cave Temple, despite the busy crowds during your visit.
We understand that the journey can be quite long, and we appreciate your advice for future travelers to be prepared for it. However, we’re truly sorry to hear about the situation with the driver and a fellow guest. While we acknowledge that handling difficult situations can be challenging, our team is trained to maintain professionalism at all times. We will certainly look into this matter to ensure that every guest experiences a comfortable and smooth journey.
Your feedback is valuable in helping us improve, and we truly appreciate you bringing this to our attention. We hope to welcome you back for another Sri Lankan adventure in the future!
Best regards,
Jeev
Deepak_N, Dec 2024
It was great tour of Sigriya. Started at 6am and we reached Dambula enroute at around 11am and visited cave temples. From there we went to Sigiriya rocks and started the climb. It took an hour. It was too crowded. Better to avoid holiday season if you want to enjoy the Sigriya.Also the sun was beating us. Carry umbrella and apply ample sun screen
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Dear Deepak_N,
Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We’re glad to hear that you had a great tour of Sigiriya and Dambulla and that you enjoyed visiting the cave temples and climbing Sigiriya Rock.
We appreciate your advice regarding the crowds and the heat, especially during the holiday season. Your tips about carrying an umbrella and using sunscreen will certainly be helpful for future travelers!
We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you on another adventure in Sri Lanka in the future.
Best regards,
Jeev
Matthew_C, Oct 2024
This was an unusual one in that I thought we were joining a group, but it was only me and my partner in the back of a car and a driver and a “guide” in the front. The “guide” gave us some interesting details as we left Colombo but nothing more really after that. He introduced us to other guides at the temple and the rock that showed us around those places. So I’m not sure why he was in our car?
Sigiriya is amazing and well with the visit but it was a 4 hour car journey back to Colombo so be ready.
The company was Apple tours.
Response from Host, Nov 2024
Thank you for sharing your feedback regarding your day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla. We’re glad to hear that you found Sigiriya amazing and worth the visit, but we’re sorry to learn that certain aspects of the experience did not meet your expectations.
Our private tours are designed to provide a personalized experience, and we understand that this might have been different from the group tour you were expecting. We also regret any confusion about the guide’s role. While our guides focus on providing valuable insights and facilitating the logistics of the tour, they sometimes partner with specialized local guides at certain sites to enhance the experience with their specific knowledge.
We appreciate your comments about the long journey back to Colombo—it’s something we always aim to balance with the unique cultural and historical experiences offered during the trip.
Your feedback helps us improve, and we hope to have the opportunity to provide you with a more satisfying experience in the future. Thank you again for taking the time to share your thoughts!
Ichiro_K, Aug 2024
Wonderful experience
He gave me some extra options to visit
Mostly the spots are for locals and that’s what I wanted to experience
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Dear Ichiro_K,
Thank you for your thoughtful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had a wonderful experience on your Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari. It’s fantastic that your guide was able to offer extra options to visit local spots—just what you were looking for to connect with the local history and culture.
We’re thrilled that you enjoyed these authentic experiences, and we’re grateful that you chose us to be a part of your journey in Sri Lanka. We hope to welcome you back for more enriching adventures in the future!
Rebecca_B, Jun 2024
This was a very long trip, so plan a rest day afterwards. And you'll be sore from climbing all those steps. We had a knowledgeable guide who was thoughtful and helpful. There were some expenses not included, so be prepared for that.
Response from Host, Jun 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience, Rebecca! We're delighted to hear that you had a wonderful time on the Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari. It's great that your guide was knowledgeable, thoughtful, and helpful. The climb can indeed be challenging, so your tip about planning a rest day is very useful. We appreciate your feedback about the additional expenses and will work to make these clearer in the future. We're glad you enjoyed the trip overall and hope to see you on another adventure soon!
ConstanseMjeldheim_B, Apr 2024
Great way of seeing some of the highlights of Sri Lanka. Fun filled day and quick / easy communication
Response from Host, Apr 2024
Thank you for your review! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our full-day tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla, and that it provided you with a great way to experience some of Sri Lanka's highlights. It's fantastic to know that you had a fun-filled day and found our communication quick and easy. We appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for more memorable adventures in the future!
Melette_M, Apr 2024
We love the experience n our guide Naveen very helpful n really took care of us.
We recommend it..
we enjoyed the coconut n corn he bought for us too.
Response from Host, Apr 2024
Thank you for your excellent review! We're thrilled to hear that you loved your experience on our full-day tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla, and we're delighted that Naveen, our guide, was helpful and took great care of you throughout the journey. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we're so glad you enjoyed the coconut and corn Naveen provided. We hope to welcome you back for more memorable experiences in the future. Thank you for choosing our tour!
Marko_S, Apr 2024
Highly recommended. First and foremost our guide Chathu, what an amazing guy, so accommodating, knowledgeable. We stopped at places to have amazing breakfast and coffee, and lunch, affordable but good. Breakfast included continental options and amazing coffee.
Sights were amazing, I could write a whole essay just for that, but I’m here to give praise to a really good service of this company. Fruit was bought as we stopped along the way in authentic locally sourced shops, all free. Coconuts, bananas, mangos, just amazing!
A small word of caution, it gets really hot, and a lot of steps would definitely be a challenge for anyone with disabilities. Take an extra t-shirt, don’t spare the sunblock!
Response from Host, Apr 2024
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic experience during your full-day tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla with our guide, Chathu. Providing excellent service and ensuring our guests have a memorable time is our top priority, and we're delighted that Chathu was accommodating and knowledgeable throughout your journey.
It's fantastic to know that you enjoyed the delicious breakfast and coffee stops along the way, as well as the affordable and tasty lunch options. Exploring the sights of Sigiriya and Dambulla must have been truly breathtaking, and we're glad you appreciated the locally sourced fruits and authentic shopping experiences.
We appreciate your word of caution about the heat and the challenge of the steps, and we'll make sure to advise future guests accordingly. Your recommendation and kind words mean a lot to us, and we hope to welcome you back for more unforgettable adventures in the future. Thank you for choosing our tour, and we're thrilled to have provided you with a 5-star experience
Michael_W, Mar 2024
The tour provides transport to Dambulla and Sirigiya. Our tour was amended to also include a disappointing and expensive bumpy Safari tour (to only see elephants and peacocks) or a much better and cheaper village tour. The driver very was very helpful and provided some stops along the way as there was no lunch or dinner during this long day tour that started pre 5am and finished after 8pm. So take plenty of snacks and a comfy pillow.
Response from Host, Mar 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the beautiful locations of Dambulla and Sigiriya during your tour with us. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the amended itinerary, and we appreciate your feedback regarding the optional safari tour. We strive to offer diverse experiences to cater to different preferences and interests, but we understand that this may not have met your expectations.
We're delighted that our driver provided helpful stops along the way to enhance your journey. We regret any inconvenience caused by the lack of lunch or dinner arrangements and appreciate your suggestion to bring snacks and a comfy pillow for a more comfortable experience.
Your feedback is invaluable to us as we continually strive to improve our services. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back on another adventure in the future.
Tresena_H, Mar 2024
Unfortunately our tour was marred by the fact our driver kept nodding off whilst driving. My husband had to wake him up and stop the car on the way there to get a drink. On way back he did the same we contacted the company and requested a new driver which they did very quickly. That really spoilt the day to be honest. Rock was amazing.
Response from Host, Mar 2024
Dear Tresena_H,
We appreciate your additional information regarding the investigation into the driver's conduct during your Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo. We take such matters seriously and conducted a thorough inquiry involving the driver and other guests accompanying you on the day.
It's reassuring to hear that, according to the investigation, the driver did not fall asleep, and we acknowledge your concerns. We also appreciate your understanding in facilitating the vehicle change promptly. It's important for us to address and resolve issues swiftly to ensure the safety and satisfaction of our guests.
We understand that the incident might have affected your overall experience, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused. Regarding the suggestion about not reaching the top of Sigiriya Rock, we regret any missed opportunity to experience the mesmerizing views fully. We will use this feedback to improve our communication and ensure a smoother experience for future travelers.
Your insights are valuable to us, and we genuinely hope to have the chance to welcome you again for a more seamless and enjoyable tour.
If you have any further details to share or if there's anything else we can do, please feel free to reach out.
Best regards,
Jeev
mohanyadav, Feb 2024
A wonderful trip to Dambula and Sigeria with my daughter. Aeron our guide is a wonderful person and very helping. Perfect
Response from Host, Feb 2024
Dear Mohan Yadav,
Thank you immensely for sharing your positive review of the Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo. It warms our hearts to know that you and your daughter had a wonderful trip, and we are truly grateful for your kind words.
Aeron, our guide, will be thrilled to hear about your appreciation for his assistance and warmth. We strive to provide memorable experiences, and it's rewarding to learn that we contributed to making your journey perfect.
Your feedback inspires us to continue delivering exceptional service, and we can't wait to welcome you and your family on another adventure in the future. If there's anything specific you loved about the tour or if you have any suggestions for improvement, we'd love to hear more.
Thank you once again for choosing us, and we look forward to serving you on your next travel escapade.
Best regards,
Jeev
Tom_o, Feb 2024
Great day out and went exactly as described on the itinerary. Was the only person on the tour this day and had a great driver.
Response from Host, Feb 2024
Dear Tom_o,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback on the Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo. We are thrilled to hear that your experience aligned perfectly with the provided itinerary.
It's wonderful to know that you had a great day out and enjoyed the tour, especially with the personalized touch of being the only person on the tour. We are delighted that your driver contributed to making your experience memorable.
Your positive review is truly appreciated, and we hope to welcome you on more enriching journeys in the future. Should you have any specific highlights or suggestions for improvement, feel free to share them.
Safe travels!
Best regards,
Jeev
Prashanth_M, Jan 2024
We had a wonderful Guide Rajeev and the driver Bala, very friendly,very informative. They were like family took good care of us and I would recommend these guys blindly to anyone who wants to tour Sri Lanka.Kudos guys Rajeev and Bala you guys are awesome.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Dear Prashanth_M,
Thank you for taking the time to share your recent experience on the Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo. It's fantastic to hear that you had such an excellent and mind-blowing trip.
Your commendation for Guide Rajeev and Driver Bala highlights the importance of having a knowledgeable and friendly team during travels. It's heartwarming to learn that they went above and beyond, making you feel like family and taking good care of you throughout the journey. The personal touch they provided undoubtedly added to the overall positive experience.
Your blind recommendation to anyone considering touring Sri Lanka with Rajeev and Bala underscores the level of trust and satisfaction you had with their services. Such glowing reviews are invaluable for fellow travelers looking for reliable and exceptional tour guides.
Kudos to Rajeev and Bala for their awesome service and for leaving you with such wonderful memories of your trip. May your future travels be just as remarkable!
Warm regards,
Jeev
Devanand_S, Jan 2024
The tour started on time with the tour guide picking us at our hotel on schedule. The tour guide was friendly and helpful and informative. There was a brief stop in the morning for breakfast and the entire tour went on smoothly and all the point of interests mentioned in the day trip were covered. Taking a tour on this service provider is highly recommended.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Dear Devanand_S,
Thank you for sharing your positive experience with the Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo. Your detailed feedback is much appreciated, and it's great to hear that the tour exceeded your expectations.
The mention of on-time pickup and strict adherence to the schedule is valuable information for fellow travelers. Punctuality is a key factor in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience, and I'm pleased to hear that it was maintained throughout your journey.
It's wonderful to know that the tour guide was not only punctual but also friendly, helpful, and informative. A knowledgeable and engaging guide can truly enhance the overall experience, providing valuable insights and context to the places visited. If there were any specific details or anecdotes about the guide's information that stood out to you, it would be interesting to hear more.
The inclusion of a brief stop for breakfast adds a thoughtful touch to the tour, ensuring that participants are well taken care of throughout the day. Were there any particular highlights during the morning stop or any recommendations from the guide for breakfast that you found noteworthy?
Moreover, the fact that all the points of interest mentioned in the day trip were covered reflects a well-planned itinerary. It would be insightful to hear more about your favorite moments or any unique aspects of the tour that stood out to you.
Your recommendation for this service provider is certainly valuable for others planning a similar excursion. If there are any additional details or aspects of the tour you'd like to highlight, please feel free to share. Your feedback contributes significantly to the overall understanding of the tour experience.
Thank you again for taking the time to provide such a comprehensive review. We look forward to serving you again on your future travels.
Safe travels,
Jeev
anilkumar_m, Jan 2024
Everything was great
Very organised n perfect
We had a nice experience
We enjoyed a lot
Would recommend to our friends too
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Dear anilkumar_m,
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a wonderful review of your recent Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo. We're delighted that your experience with us was nothing short of perfect!Your appreciation for the organization and seamless execution of the tour truly motivates us.
Our team strives to ensure that every aspect of your journey is meticulously planned, and we're thrilled that it met your expectations.
We're overjoyed to learn that you had a nice and enjoyable experience exploring these incredible destinations.
Sigiriya and Dambulla are indeed treasures, and it's fantastic to know that you found them as captivating as we do.
Your recommendation to your friends is the highest compliment we could receive! Sharing your positive experience means a lot to us and reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences.
Thank you once again for choosing us. We're excited about the possibility of hosting you and your friends on more unforgettable adventures in the future.
Warm regards,
Jeev
Hammad_H, Jan 2024
It was a well-organized trip. I was picked up at the right time. The group was small. The tour guide Mr. Silva was very knowledge, extremely helpful and never pushy. For the non-essential parts of the trip, he gave us options and respected the groups choices and decisions. I highly recommend this tour. Shout out to Mr. Silva
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Dear Customer
Absolutely! Your feedback about the Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo is incredibly valuable to us. We take great pride in ensuring our tours are meticulously organized, and it's fantastic to know that you were picked up punctually, had a small and comfortable group, and experienced the trip hassle-free.
Mr. Silva, our dedicated tour guide, embodies our commitment to exceptional service. His extensive knowledge, helpfulness, and respectful approach in offering choices for non-essential parts of the tour truly make a difference. We're elated to hear that he provided a memorable experience by being informative without being pushy.
Your high recommendation means the world to us, and we'll make sure to convey your appreciation to Mr. Silva. Thank you for choosing our tour service, and we look forward to welcoming you on another adventure soon!
Regards
Jeev
Ilona_H, Dec 2023
The trip started on time. Was very impressed with the punctuality. The guide provided us with interesting facts and information. It was a great pleasure to be a part of the group. We’ve liked fruit stop at the road side shop, coconut was soooo delicious. Sigiriya was amazing place to be. It is lots more of steps to make to the summit but was worth it every drop of sweat 😊. Definitely would recommend this company to book a tour.
Response from Host, Dec 2023
Dear Madam
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your incredible experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that your journey to Sigiriya and Dambulla was a memorable one.Punctuality is a priority for us, and we're glad our guide could make your trip informative and enjoyable with fascinating facts. Ah, the fruit stop - we're delighted you found the coconut delicious; sometimes, those little moments truly enhance the entire experience!The climb to Sigiriya's summit is indeed a challenge, but your description truly captures its worth. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we're honored to have been a part of your journey.Looking forward to welcoming you back for more adventures!
Warm regards,
Jeev
Jacinta_A, Dec 2023
Apple Vacation driver picked me up at hotel lobby on time at 6.10am. Long round trip ride in the van, 6hrs total, to get from Colombo-Dambulla, Sigiriya-Colombo. Bottled water provided in van. We had a stop around an hr of driving for bio break, snacks and drinks before continuing on to Dambulla. Dambulla is beautiful with the 100+ Buddha statues up in the hills. Next stop is Sigiriya. Sigiriya is sooooo beautiful! The grounds are breathtaking with water lilies, lush greenery and thousands year old brick foundation remnants of the palace. It was raining the whole day and night but let me tell you, it was a blessing since hiking up and down these amazing landmarks makes you sweaty and hot, so the rain helps cool your body.
Climbing up the steep steps to the top of the mesa is not for the faint hearted. Lucky for me, I love heights lol. On the top, you'll see remnants of the summer palace foundation, swimming pool/water reservoirs. The views are amazing and it's so calm up in the clouds.
As you descend back to the foot of the Lion's claw, there's a section for viewing wall frescoes. Check out the ladies with 3 arms and 3 areolas. I spent about 2.5 hrs here before heading back to Colombo. 1 elderly man from our group decided to stay at the Lion's Claw and waited for us 30 minutes before continuing the alfresco viewing. The group (5 other ppl from Celebrity cruise ship) decided to stopped for a quick bite to eat on the way back to Colombo. We did see a baby elephant on the drive back to Colombo which was part of a safari tour option but thankfully we declined since baby elephant was chained to a tree. This was probably the only negative in an otherwise amazing day, ie seeing an abused elephant outside a Unesco landmark.
Response from Host, Dec 2023
Dear Jacinta_A,
Thank you for sharing your insightful and detailed experience from the Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla with Apple Vacations. We're thrilled to hear that you found the journey comfortable with our timely pickup and the amenities provided during the ride.
Your vivid description of both Dambulla and Sigiriya captures the essence of their breathtaking beauty, even amidst the rain. We're delighted that the rain added a refreshing touch to your exploration of these historic landmarks.
The ascent to the top of Sigiriya can indeed be exhilarating, and we're glad it provided a unique experience, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere at the summit.
Your mention of the wall frescoes and the observations during your exploration adds depth to your experience. It's unfortunate to hear about the sighting of an abused baby elephant, an incident that stands in stark contrast to the beauty of the UNESCO landmarks. We appreciate your concern and decision to decline the safari tour.
Your detailed review helps us understand our guests' experiences better, and we'll certainly consider your feedback seriously. We're thrilled to have been part of creating an overall amazing day for you.
Thank you for choosing Apple Vacations, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you again for another incredible adventure.
Warm regards,
Jeev
Apple Vacations Team
Christina_G, Dec 2023
First of all: we loved Sigiriya and would recommend all travelers in Sri Lanka to visit the sight. And though it is a long way from Colombo, it can be done within one day from there. However, I wouldn’t recommend going with this company, unless they make some changes - mostly regarding the food. I have been on hundreds of day tours in my life and I have almost always had the experience that a) the tour provider brings a lunch for the customers or b) the tour provider offers 3 choices and calls the restaurant in advance. Here, the guide took us to a restaurant for breakfast, everyone ordered individually and we lost 90 min. Instead of at 9:30, we only got to the cave temples a little before 11am and then were rushed to move along. In Sigiriya, we were meant to spend 3h…we didn’t quite get 2h…once again, it was rushed. Since there was no pre-organized lunch, we lost another 90min. After we had been sweating a lot to get up on the rock, it took the restaurant over 45min to even bring us our drinks. Also, the guide tried to sell the group a safari for 45 USD a person. Nowhere in the tour description of Viator is this option mentioned. We had already been on 3 safaris in Yala - we didn’t want to go on an overpriced one. Luckily, the rest of the group declined; otherwise we would have needed to wait 2h in the car for them to return. And it was already very late! - We had been expecting to get back into the city around 6pm; we didn’t get there until 9. If the safari had gone ahead, it would have been 11!! Overall, it was a tiny bit of great activity sandwiched in between super long drives and long restaurant waits. I rarely write negative reviews but it was disappointing, even though the guide was friendly. One word of advice to other travelers: it is a very steep, long climb in a very hot and humid climate…more strenuous than you‘d expect. If the guides think you look like you‘ll be in trouble, they’ll organize a personal „bodyguard“ to help you up. We were glad to have this person help my dad but he wanted 20 USD for the job (we gave him 10), so bring some extra cash.
Response from Host, Dec 2023
Dear Christina_G,
Thank you for sharing additional insights regarding your experience during the Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo. Your detailed feedback helps us understand the specific challenges encountered during the tour and where improvements can be made.
I appreciate your understanding regarding the breakfast arrangements. Providing customers with the freedom to choose their preferences aligns with our commitment to catering to diverse tastes and dietary requirements. However, your feedback on the delay caused by individual orders is duly noted, and we are actively exploring ways to streamline this process without compromising on personal preferences.
Regarding the optional tour, I apologize if there was any confusion regarding its inclusion in the tour description. We aim to provide comprehensive details about any additional options beforehand to ensure clarity and avoid surprises during the tour.
It's heartening to know that our team allocated additional assistance for your father's comfort during the climb. I apologize for any confusion about the tipping, and thank you for highlighting that it was optional. We appreciate our guests' understanding and support in such situations.
Your detailed feedback is invaluable as it assists us in fine-tuning our services to provide a more seamless and enjoyable experience for all our guests. We are committed to addressing these areas of concern promptly to enhance future tours.
I sincerely hope that despite these challenges, the sights of Sigiriya and Dambulla left a lasting impression. Should you have any further feedback or if there's anything we can do to enhance your experience in the future, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Thank you once again for choosing our tour, and we hope to have the opportunity to exceed your expectations on your next visit.
Warm regards,
Jeev
Anonymous, Nov 2023
(Comments in Japanese follows)
It was a great adventure. The guide was knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. He tried to maximize our experience as much as possible, as the expectations vary from tourists(Some group wanted to join an optional Safari tour so he arranged a separate transportation). Please note that the ETA at your hotel depends on the traffic. We came back to our hotel in Colombo at 21:30.
23年11月時点の情報
-ダンブッラ洞窟寺院:2000ルピー＋靴を脱ぐ時の管理人へのチップ50(任意)
-シーギリヤ:10,020ルピー又はUSD30(米ドルの方がお得、VISA/MC可)
-朝食:1,000-2,000ルピー
-昼食:バフェで3,500、アラカルトで1,500〜、飲み物代別
-オプショナルのサファリツアー:ひとりあたりUSD50(2人以上で参加する場合)
-水は何度も買ってくれます(ツアー代に含まれる)
-ガイドや運転手へのチップ:期待されませんし、他の欧米人ツーリストも払っていませんでしたが、満足したらあげるのも良いと思います。500-1,000ルピーぐらい？
Response from Host, Nov 2023
Dear Customer
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback on your recent Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo. We're thrilled to hear that you had a great adventure and that our guide exceeded your expectations with their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness.
We understand that each group of tourists may have different preferences and interests, and we always strive to accommodate those preferences to enhance your experience. It's great to hear that you appreciated our guide's efforts in arranging separate transportation for those interested in the optional Safari tour.
Indeed, traffic conditions can affect the ETA at your hotel, and we appreciate your understanding in this regard.
Thank you for providing valuable information about the current costs and tips for various aspects of the tour. This information will be helpful for future travelers looking to plan their budget accordingly.
We greatly value your feedback, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back on another adventure in the future. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out. Safe travels!
ご投稿いただき、誠にありがとうございます。最近のコロンボからのシギリヤとダンブッラフルデイツアーに関するフィードバックを共有していただき、大変嬉しく思っております。素晴らしい冒険ができたとのこと、私たちのガイドが知識豊富で友好的で助かる存在だったこと、本当に嬉しいです。
私たちは異なる観光客の期待に合わせることがあることを理解しており、常にお客様のご要望にお応えし、体験を向上させるよう努力しております。オプショナルのサファリツアーに参加を希望するグループに別の輸送手段を手配したことが、お客様に評価されていること、とても嬉しく思います。
交通事情がホテルへの到着時刻に影響することも理解しており、その点についてのご理解、大変感謝しております。
ツアーに関するさまざまな側面の現在の費用やヒントについて貴重な情報を提供していただき、今後の旅行者が予算を適切に計画するのに役立つことでしょう。
貴重なフィードバックを非常に重要に考えており、将来の冒険で再びお迎えできることを楽しみにしております。質問がある場合やさらなるお手伝いが必要な場合は、どうぞお気軽にお問い合わせください。安全な旅をお祈り申し上げます！ 🌟
Renee_K, Nov 2023
Because of time constraints we were unable do our original planned excursion. Our tour guide went out of his way to modify our tour and it was wonderful. We appreciated the effort he put in for us.
Response from Host, Nov 2023
Dear Renee_K,
Thank you for your lovely review of our Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo. We are thrilled to hear that you had a great experience, despite the initial time constraints.
At Apple Vacations, we pride ourselves on our flexible and customer-focused approach, and it's heartening to know that our tour guide was able to modify your tour successfully to suit your needs. We understand the importance of making each trip special and memorable, and it's wonderful to hear that our guide's efforts made a positive impact on your experience.
Your appreciation means a great deal to us and to the guide who accompanied you. We will be sure to pass along your kind words to him.
Thank you once again for choosing Apple Vacations, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future with more exceptional travel experiences.
Warm regards,
Customer Service Team
Apple Vacations
Leslie_S, Sep 2023
Really enjoyed this day trip to the Dambulla and Sigiriya from Colombo. The driver was very knowledgeable and professional. I also did a safari afterwards which was excellent, the elephant’s close up were amazing. I would just say it’s a very long day and you need to be reasonably fit to go up all the steps at Sigiriya but very worthwhile when you reach the top. Overall it was a fantastic day trip, very well organised
Response from Host, Sep 2023
Dear Lessie
Thank you for sharing your fantastic experience with our Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the trip and found our driver knowledgeable and professional. Your feedback on the safari and the incredible close encounters with elephants is greatly appreciated.
We do acknowledge that the climb at Sigiriya can be a bit challenging, but as you mentioned, the view from the top is definitely worth it. We strive to provide well-organized and memorable experiences for our customers, and your kind words are a testament to our efforts.
We hope you'll consider Apple Vacations for your future travel adventures, and we look forward to serving you again soon!
Regards
Jeev
Katrina_C, Sep 2023
Sigiriya and Dambulla were amazing to visit and learn their history. The driver was very knowledgeable about the region and made the trip extremely fun.
Response from Host, Sep 2023
Dear Katrina_C,
Thank you for sharing your feedback on your recent Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo via Viator. We appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts about your experience with us.
It's wonderful to hear that you had an amazing time exploring Sigiriya and Dambulla and delving into their rich history. These destinations are indeed steeped in culture and heritage.
We're delighted that your driver added an extra layer of enjoyment to your journey by being knowledgeable about the region and making the trip fun. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that our guests not only discover the historical and cultural aspects of the places they visit but also have an enjoyable and memorable time throughout their tour.
Your review serves as a valuable source of motivation for us to continue delivering exceptional travel experiences. We're grateful for your trust in Apple Vacations, and we look forward to assisting you with your future travel plans.
Should you decide to explore more incredible destinations, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help you create more unforgettable memories on your next adventure.
Apple Vacations
ekelly633, Sep 2023
The guide and the driver went out of their way to give us the best experience possible. For example, when we were ready to ready to return to Colombo, they cruised up and down the highway because it was time for the elephants to come out to feed. It took a good half-hour or so but we had the thrill of watching a full-grown female crossing the highway to graze.
Response from Host, Sep 2023
Dear ekelly633,
Your review of your Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo through Viator has brought immense joy to our team at Apple Vacations. We are genuinely thrilled to read about your exceptional experience, and we'd like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for choosing us as your travel partner.
The dedication and passion of our guide and driver shine through in the extra effort they put into making your journey memorable. Cruising up and down the highway to witness the elephants coming out to feed, with the highlight being the full-grown female elephant crossing the highway, is a testament to their commitment to providing you with unforgettable moments.
At Apple Vacations, we believe that travel is not just about reaching a destination; it's about creating lasting memories and connecting with the world in a meaningful way. Your review reaffirms our mission to deliver exceptional travel experiences that exceed expectations.
We look forward to the opportunity of being a part of your future adventures, helping you explore new horizons and create even more unforgettable memories. Please don't hesitate to reach out whenever you're ready to embark on your next journey with us.
Safe travels and may your future explorations be filled with wonder and excitement!
Warmest regards,
Apple Vacations Team
Emma_L, Jul 2023
Starting bright and early, you’ll head to Dambulla followed by Sigiriya. The guide was very knowledgeable and accomodating for all. By the time we got to Sigiriya, it was 30+ degrees, which made the walk harder than it is. So water, sunscreen, snacks and an hat are essential to bring (though they have water on board for you). That said, as you’d expect, there were lots of steps! You’ll get a different guide at Sigiriya - ours was great! Afterwards, if you don’t choose to do the optional village experience, expect to sit at lunch for approx 1.5-2hrs.
Overall, a great full day tour worth the money! If you’re travelling solo and want to go in a group, reach out beforehand and they can let you know if others are booked in.
Response from Host, Jul 2023
Hello Emma_L,
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us on the Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo through Viator! We're thrilled to hear that you had a great day exploring these fascinating sites with Apple Vacations.
Our team takes pride in providing knowledgeable and accommodating guides, and we're delighted to know that your guide made the tour even more enjoyable for you.
Exploring in warm weather can be challenging, and we appreciate your valuable advice to fellow travelers about being prepared with essentials like water, sunscreen, snacks, and a hat. We understand the importance of comfort and convenience during the tour, and we're glad to hear that we have provisions for water on board to keep our guests hydrated.
Sigiriya's magnificent rock fortress indeed involves climbing a substantial number of steps, but we're thrilled that you had a great experience with the guide at Sigiriya, enhancing your visit to this historic site.
We appreciate your feedback about the lunch duration and will take it into consideration to improve the overall tour experience for our guests.
It's heartening to know that you found the full day tour worth the money. At Apple Vacations, we strive to offer the best value for our guests, ensuring they have a memorable and enriching experience.
For solo Traveler , we understand the importance of group dynamics, and we're happy to assist in connecting you with other travelers to enhance your journey and foster new friendships.
Thank you for choosing Apple Vacations for your tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla. If you decide to explore more of Sri Lanka or other destinations in the future, we'd be delighted to be a part of your next adventure.
Best regards,
Jeev
From $70.00
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From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari
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