Dambulla: Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Cave Temple Day Trip
ID: GYG1080983-1660183
Category:
Country: Sri Lanka
Duration:
08:00 hours
Description
Cultural wonders in one curated day from Dambulla. Climb the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa’s ancient ruins, and marvel at the Golden Cave Temple of Dambulla
See Sri Lanka’s cultural icons and ancient capitals in one unforgettable private day tour from Dambulla. With your friendly driver-guide, enjoy a flexible, curated journey that blends history, spirituality, and heritage—all without the hassle of planning.
Begin your morning with the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sri Lanka’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb through landscaped water gardens, explore the famous Mirror Wall and ancient frescoes, and take in breathtaking views across the central plains from the summit. Your driver ensures an early start to help you avoid peak crowds and heat for a more relaxed experience.
Next, continue to Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, where grand ruins reveal the island’s golden past. Visit highlights such as the Archaeological Museum for historical context, the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu, the elegant Vatadage, and the towering Rankoth Vehera stupa. Admire the intricate carvings at Lankathilaka Image House, the serene beauty of Gal Vihara’s colossal Buddha statues, and smaller yet fascinating sites including Pothgul Viharaya, Manik Vehera, Kiri Vehera, and the ancient Siva Devalaya temple. Along the way, your guide shares insights into the artistry, spirituality, and daily life of this ancient city, once thriving beside the great Parakrama Samudra reservoir.
In the afternoon, step into living heritage at the Dambulla Cave Temple, a sacred complex of painted chambers filled with golden Buddha statues and vivid murals dating back over two millennia. Explore at your own pace while learning about the legends and cultural importance of this UNESCO-listed wonder.
Throughout the day, enjoy photo stops, snack breaks, and insider tips from your driver-guide. This tour is designed for flexibility—whether you’re drawn to cultural exploration, ancient architecture, or spiritual traditions.
If you’re staying in Dambulla and want to see the very best of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle in a single curated day, this experience brings it all together: Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Dambulla—history, culture, and timeless beauty.
We have introduced two option Budget friendly Compact Hatch back Car Option (Suzuki Estilo) Ideal For 2 Pax and Luxury Mini Van Option (NV200).
Travelers can select (NV200) Van or Suzuki Estilo Compact car as the transportation Type.
Highlights
- Climb Sigiriya Rock with frescoes, Mirror Wall & panoramic views
- Explore Polonnaruwa ruins: Royal Palace, Gal Vihara & sacred sites
- Visit Dambulla Golden Cave Temple with vivid murals & Buddha statues
INCLUDED
- Private air-conditioned Budget Car/Luxuri Mini van with driver-guide
- Hotel pickup & drop-off from Dambulla/Sigiriya area/Habarana
- Bottled water refills (plastic-free initiative)
- Time-flexible itinerary with photo stops
NOT INCLUDED
- Sigiriya Rock entrance (approx. USD 40 pp)
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City entrance (approx. USD 30 pp)
- Dambulla Cave Temple entrance (approx. USD 10 pp)
- Meals & personal expenses
When should I book?
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.
Cancellations
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.