Sigiriya: Minneriya Safari, Yapahuwa Rock & Colombo Drop-off Sigiriya: Minneriya Safari, Yapahuwa Rock & Negombo Drop-off

Experience a safari at Minneriya or Hurulu Eco National Park, then explore the ancient Yapahuwa Rock Fortress on a day trip from Dambulla, Sigiriya, or Habarana.
05:30 – Hotel Pick-up
Begin your day early with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Dambulla, Sigiriya, or Habarana, and travel towards Minneriya or Hurulu Eco National Park.

06:00 – Morning Safari Experience
Enjoy an exciting half-day safari at Minneriya or Hurulu Eco National Park in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province. The selected national park will depend on the season and the highest concentration of wildlife, and full information will be shared before the safari begins.

During the dry season, witness the spectacular sight of large herds of Sri Lankan elephants gathering around the grasslands near the reservoir. Explore a diverse ecosystem that is home to endemic monkey species, large herbivores such as Sri Lankan sambar deer and axis deer, and rare wildlife including the Sri Lankan leopard and sloth bear.

The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with species such as the lesser adjutant, painted stork, spot-billed pelican, great white pelican, grey heron, little cormorant, and ruddy turnstone. Overall, Minneriya and Hurulu Eco National Parks are home to approximately 24 species of mammals, 160 bird species, 9 amphibians, 25 reptiles, 26 fish species, and 75 species of butterflies.

Light refreshments and bottled water will be provided during the safari for your comfort.

10:00 – Proceed to Yapahuwa
After completing the safari, continue your journey towards Yapahuwa, enjoying scenic countryside views along the way.

12:00 – Visit Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
Explore the ancient Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, a 13th-century citadel located in north-western Sri Lanka. Once the capital of the country (1272–1284) during the reign of King Bhuvanekabahu I, Yapahuwa was built atop a massive granite rock rising approximately 90 meters above the surrounding plains. The fortress served as a fortified palace and religious center, safeguarding the Sacred Tooth Relic—one of Buddhism’s most revered relics.

Admire the beautifully carved ornamental stone stairway, intricate guardstones, and historic Brahmi and medieval inscriptions. Although the Sacred Tooth Relic was later taken to South India after Yapahuwa was abandoned, the site remains a significant archaeological monument showcasing Sri Lanka’s medieval defensive architecture and cultural heritage.

17:00 – Drop-off at Hotel in Colombo
Arrive at your hotel in Colombo, marking the end of a memorable day combining wildlife encounters with rich historical and cultural exploration.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.