From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari
Traveler rating
4.5/5
Based on 137 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari worth booking?
From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari is a 12-hour experience in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from $45 per person. It scores 79 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 137 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 79 / 100
- Rating
- 4.5/5 (137)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $45 per person
Climbing a rock - if you’re in good shape and don’t stop to look at things, it’ll take you less than 30 minutes to climb all the way to the top of the rock. If you need a few breaks along the way or simply want to stop often to take photos and admire the view, it’ll take an hour and a half to two hours to climb up and go back down again. and then Visit The beautiful Royal Rock Temple complex sits about 160m above the road in the southern part of Dambulla. Buddha images were first created here over 2000 years ago, and over the centuries subsequent kings added to and embellished the cave art.
What you get
About this experience
Climbing a rock - if you’re in good shape and don’t stop to look at things, it’ll take you less than 30 minutes to climb all the way to the top of the rock. If you need a few breaks along the way or simply want to stop often to take photos and admire the view, it’ll take an hour and a half to two hours to climb up and go back down again. and then Visit The beautiful Royal Rock Temple complex sits about 160m above the road in the southern part of Dambulla. Buddha images were first created here over 2000 years ago, and over the centuries subsequent kings added to and embellished the cave art.
What's included
Included
- Complimentary Wifi Access During the Travel Subject To Availability
- Seasonal fruits - subject to available
- Hotel pickup and drop off by air conditioned vehicle
- King Coconut - subject to available
- Bottled water
- Guide Assistance in Sigiriya Lion Rock ( English,German, French, Spanish )
- English Speaking Driver cum Guide
Not included
- Food and Beverages, unless specified
- Gratuities
- Entrance Fees Sigiriya USD 36 & Cave Temple USD 8
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Colombo
Our Driver will meet your at the lobby from your pickup location choose we recommended to be at lobby 10 mins before activity. if you able to get the Packed breakfast from hotel
Pass by without stopping
Get Refresh your self with some coffees can assure you that this is the best coffee and cafe you’d find Such great service and it’s a very clean set up
30 minutes here
Dambulla Cave Temple
Dambulla cave temple also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla is a World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka, situated in the central part of the country. This site is situated 148 kilometres east of Colombo and 72 kilometres north of Kandy. Dambulla is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka
45 minutes here · Admission not included
Golden Temple of Dambulla
The Rock Temple of Dambulla, called Jumbukola Vihara (Dambulla Cave Temple) in the (Mahavamsa)-the principal Pali Chronicle of Sri Lanka, is situated about forty seven miles north west of Kandy, the last capital of the Sinhalese kings, on the main road to Anuradhupura. Dambulla is a scent of unique interest. Its rock temples are the most extensive in the Island, and one of the most ancient, and in the highest state of preservation and order.(photo Stop only)
5 minutes here
Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre
Located in the Dambulla SecretariatDivision of Matale District, in the center of Dambulla town started in 1999 to establish a wholesale market for vegetables and fruits. One important feature of the DDEC is thus more direct participation of the farmers is selling farm produce.
Pass by without stopping
Sigiriya Museum
The Sigiriya Museum known to be the most beautiful museums in all of South Asia is managed by the central Cultural Fund. This museum represents the cultural, technological and archeological value of Sigiriya. The Sigiriya Museum allows its visitors to explore three decades of archeological research on Sigiriya. The design of the Sigiriya museum was inspired by the complex design systems evident in Sigiriya itself. Most importantly the cleaver use of water, where it both enhances the beauty and quality of the environment as well as the conservation of it for the purpose of irrigation is been replicated here at the Sigiriya Museum. (combine with Sigiriya rock fortress )
Pass by without stopping
Sigiriya Lion Rock
Sigiriya is the most exquisite example of ancient Sri Lankan art, architecture and landscaping. Built over 1,600 years ago, the now sinister-looking 600 ft high black rock once appeared like a massive dazzling white cloud floating above the surrounding forests. Its sides were painted with beautiful frescoes of semi-naked nymphs. A large gatehouse in the form of a lion guarded the entrance to the innermost sanctum of the city – the Sky Palace on top of the rock. Sigiriya burst briefly into pre-eminence and was then abandoned and lay hidden in the forests for nearly 1,500 years. The climb to the top is strenuous but it is worth it. Definitely a must visit site!
120 minutes here · Admission not included
Oakray Woodcarvings
From typical wooden elephant ornaments to the more intricately carved wooden traditional masks, Oak Ray Wood Carving boasts of one of the more comprehensive wood carving collections in Sri Lanka. The ‘Oak Ray’ brand, primarily catering to the hospitality needs of tourists has diversified its name into the niche of handicrafts and has quickly become a go-to establishment to find that perfect memento of your journey around the Paradise Island of Sri Lanka.
20 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Group Tour from Kalutara/Galle
Vehicle Type: Private air-conditioned car (1–2 travelers) Air-conditioned van (3–7 travelers) Mini coach (8+ travelers on request) Driver/Guide: Professional English-speaking driver/guide Pickup included
All-Inclusive Group Tour
All-Inclusive: Sigiriya 11,000 rupees (around 35 USD) Cave temple - 3000 safari Entrance tickets & safari jeep Pickup included
Group Tour from From Colombo
entry fees : Sigiriya Rock Fortress climb Dambulla Cave Temple visit Optional Jeep Safari at Minneriya / Kaudulla / Hurulu Eco Park Vehicle Type: Private air-conditioned car (1–2 travelers) Air-conditioned van (3–7 travelers) Mini coach (8+ travelers on request) driver/guide: Professional English-speaking driver/guide Pickup included
Luxury Private Tour
Additional Tours: Sigiriya Rock Fortress climb Dambulla Cave Temple visit Optional Jeep Safari village tour experience Vehicle Type: Private air-conditioned car (1–2 travelers) Air-conditioned van (3–7 travelers) Mini coach (8+ travelers on request) Driver/Guide: Professional English-speaking driver/guide Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- ar, de, ru, en, it, fr, ta, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Apple Vacations Pvt Ltd
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- 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
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 137 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
137 verified traveler reviews for From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Day trip
Excellent experience!! My guide Chadhu was respectful and full of information. Very very helpful!! 10/10 . Guide at sigirya, Tilak was also exceptional!! A definite book. However the village experience/ safari was not required after the long temple and sigriya climb. Too tired to do it!
via Tripadvisor
Great trip, a little challenging climb
The trip was absolutely fantastic! Baby elephants were the highlight of our trip! Now, climbing Sigiriya rock was a little difficult due to humidity and heat. I recommend doing this tour in December - January, when Sigiriya region is more cool. I also wish lunch was a little better, had buffet option. Overall, the trip was fantastic. Highly recommend!
via Viator
Best day trip from Colombo
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.
via Viator
Great Guide, Great Attractions
The highlight of the trip was Rukshan, our driver and guide. He was respectful, courteous, and eager to please. Rukshan's driving was perfect and he abided by the allocated time for each attraction. The choice of attractions was well-chosen as there is so much to see and do in the area.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing Experience
Our nine-member group adventure tour with Apple Vacations was exceptionally well organised from arrival to departure, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout. The itinerary provided an ideal balance of adventure, cultural immersion, and authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, catering effectively to the varied ages and interests within our group. The tour's smooth execution was particularly impressive, as each day was thoughtfully planned to explore Sri Lanka at a comfortable pace without any sense of rush. We appreciated the blend of renowned attractions and less-visited sites, which offered a deeper and more genuine understanding of the country. A notable highlight was the professionalism of our guide, Rukshan, and our driver, Indika. Rukshan demonstrated outstanding knowledge of Sri Lankan culture, history, and cuisine, complemented by his patience, professionalism, and genuine care for every member of the group. Indika ensured safe travel on challenging roads, further enhancing our comfort. The curated local food experiences distinguished the tour, with Apple Vacations selecting quality restaurants and authentic dining opportunities that reflected the region’s culinary diversity. Memorable moments included our stay at the Hotel Blackpool in Kandy & Nuwara Eliya, which featured picturesque surroundings reminiscent of Switzerland, and a warm welcome from the owner of Leaf Monkey, who accommodated all our requests. The traditional Sri Lankan dishes served—such as fish curry, moringa leaf, and drumstick curry—were exceptional. Apple Vacations also managed our niece’s wedding with professionalism and attention to detail. Dev and Suren coordinated flawlessly, maintaining calm and clear communication with over 180 guests through WhatsApp, promptly addressing concerns and ensuring smooth logistics. The wedding events, including Haldi, Mehndi night, and the beachside ceremony, were beautifully organised and enhanced by creative touches such as drone photography. Throughout both the tour and wedding, transport arrangements were reliable, drivers were courteous, luggage handling was efficient, and guest guidance was well managed. Special recognition goes to Suren for his effective coordination of airport pickups. In summary, Apple Vacations delivered a meticulously structured and warmly managed group adventure, as well as an unforgettable destination wedding. Their commitment to excellence and personalised service makes them highly recommended for culturally rich group tours or weddings in Sri Lanka. We would gladly choose their services again for future travel.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $45 to $1,150
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 48
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Apple Vacations Pvt Ltd, who run 102 experiences we rank across 8 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 54.1.
See everything Apple Vacations Pvt Ltd runsWhy this scores 79
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Colombo.
How much does From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari cost?
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Prices start at $45 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Colombo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari take?
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Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Colombo is not rushed.
Is From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 79 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 137 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Colombo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari?
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Around 48 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Colombo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Colombo and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Colombo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Colombo?
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On Outty we rank every Colombo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Flexi dates on all 5 to 7 days packages for car and English speaking driver, Sri Lanka Personal Tour Driver in private vehicle, Private Multi Day Sri Lanka Tour with Chauffeur. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Colombo?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Colombo?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari?
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Included: Complimentary Wifi Access During the Travel Subject To Availability; Seasonal fruits - subject to available; Hotel pickup and drop off by air conditioned vehicle; King Coconut - subject to available; and Bottled water. Not included: Food and Beverages, unless specified; Gratuities; Entrance Fees Sigiriya USD 36 & Cave Temple USD 8; and Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 452 listed pickup locations in and around Colombo. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari offered in?
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It is offered in Arabic, German, Russian, English, Italian, French, Tamil and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari?
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Across 137 reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, organization, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
What booking options are available for From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari?
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There are 4 options to choose from, including Group Tour from Kalutara/Galle, All-Inclusive Group Tour, Group Tour from From Colombo, Luxury Private Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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