Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple worth booking?
Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple is a 12-hour experience in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka, from $210 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (5)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $210 per person
This will be a private guided day tour and you explre our ancient two of the world heritage sites sigiriya rock and dabulla cave temple,
What you get
About this experience
This will be a private guided day tour and you explre our ancient two of the world heritage sites sigiriya rock and dabulla cave temple,
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- Entrance fees
Not included
- Alcoholic beverages
What you'll see and do
Sigiriya Lion Rock
Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress in central Sri Lanka, famous for its massive granite rock rising about 200 meters above the surrounding plains. Built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa, it features impressive frescoes, landscaped gardens, and the remains of a royal palace at the summit. Today, Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks.
2 minutes here · Admission included
Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple is a historic Buddhist temple complex in central Sri Lanka, renowned for its five cave sanctuaries carved into a massive rock. Dating back over 2,000 years, it contains hundreds of Buddha statues and beautifully preserved wall and ceiling paintings. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important place of worship and pilgrimage.
1 minutes here · Admission included
Sirilak Spice & Herbal Garden
Sri Lanka is famous for its rich variety of spices and herbs, grown in its tropical climate. Cinnamon, pepper, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and turmeric are widely used in Sri Lankan cuisine and traditional medicine. These spices and herbs have made the island historically important in global trade and continue to be a key part of its culture and economy.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Hikkaduwa
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Meeting point
Hikkaduwa
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Meeting point
Hikkaduwa
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Meeting point
Hikkaduwa
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Meeting point
Hikkaduwa
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Ends at
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Ends at
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Ends at
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Ends at
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Ends at
we meet them at their hotels lobbys
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, en, fr
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Riu Lanka Tours & Travels
Know before you go
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
5 verified traveler reviews for Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Sigirya Rock
Experience of a Life time. Get ready to work your calves! :)
Response from the operator: Thank you
via Tripadvisor
Great tailor made tours
We had a great experience with Riu Lanka tours which started even before we arrived. I was in communication with Obama before our holiday asking for device on tours and what was sensible to package up into one day or overnight tours. His advice was spot on and Obama met us at the hotel when we arrived to finalise our options. We put together a long one day trip to visit the elephants at Pinnawala, Dambulla cave rock temple and a climb to the top of Sigiriya rock. Our private tour and guide was Sam who looked after us and made sure we were comfortable with frequent coffee stops and points of interest along the way. Transport was an air conditioned hybrid car which was clean and comfortable and Sam’s driving was skilled at navigating the chaotic traffic of cars, buses, lorrys, tuk tuks, cows and elephants. Sam’s local knowledge was great and we had a wonderful day seeing the beautiful countryside and culture. Obama took us on a half day tour of Galle including a spice garden and a stop at the tsunami museum which was fascinating and rather sobering. He went out of his way to take us to a number of specific shops we wanted to visit and gave us plenty of time to visit local shops for presents to take home. One of our requests was for a recommendation for a local gem and jewellery shop. Obama knew exactly where to go and provided a taxi service there and back on a couple of days. We experienced a great service and the quality of our purchases and bespoke made pieces was excellent. Service was always top notch and nothing was too much trouble. Our tours were well planned and always on time providing plenty of opportunity for exploration and flexibility in what we wanted to do. Everything was costed and paid for up front and entry fees etc were all included, just needing money for food and drink, tips and any personal purchases. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Obama and his tour company and we will certainly be in touch once again when we return to explore more of this wonderful country.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much
via Tripadvisor
An excellent experience - highly recommended
Excellent. Booked a two day tour from the RIU hotel. I contacted RIU Lanka Tours by WhatsApp a few weeks before I arrived. Communication was excellent and they replied quickly and we planned an itinerary according to what me and my family wanted to do and see. We were picked up early in the morning and drove to Kandy to see the temple of the tooth relic, the lake, viewpoint and some shopping there. Then traveled to Dambulla to visit the cave temple and golden Buddha temple. Finally, on day one, we went to Pindurangala rock in Sigiriya to see the sunset before checking into a hotel nearby for an overnight stay. The hotel was lovely, nice dinner and breakfast included in the tour price. The following morning, we headed to Sigiriya rock to do the famous climb early in the morning before it got too busy. We then drove to Colombo for some shopping in the huge mall and local markets before returning back to Ahungalla and the RIU in the evening for dinner. A lot to pack in during the two days but everything was very well organised and ticket prices for entry into all attractions was included in the overall price. The driver we had was excellent. Very friendly and knowledgeable and he accompanied us for the full two days, purchased tickets so we did not have to wait in line etc. I would highly recommend RIU Lanka Tours in Ahungalla. There are many tour companies around here but if you are staying at the RIU, they were excellent and very local. You can plan your itinerary how you like, no pressure and hard selling. Just clear, good advice and recommendations with a good honest company. Thank you RIU Lanka tours
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your feedback
via Tripadvisor
Excellent experience!!
We are a family with 2 children and we did 2 excursions with the Riu Lanka Tours. It was all excellent. We went to Sigiyria, Dabulla, to a turtle incubator, to the moonstone mine and to Galle. From the communication, the places we suggested to visit and the accompaniment and concern of our guide in ensuring our well-being and comfort! Spectacular!! We recommend 100%! Thank you for everything Riu Lanka Tours!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Fantastic trip and experience!
We used Obama to do our airport transfers and also to do a day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla. Communication was excellent from the start, all messages were replied to promptly and any questions answered. Obama was there waiting for us at the airport, and again picked us up on time for our trip, which was an amazing day! He is very knowledgeable and friendly. We felt we were in safe hands with Obama on our trip, and he is a safe driver. The trip to Sigiriya is a must do, it’s an incredible place, and he was more than happy to do a couple of shop stop offs for us on the way back to the hotel. He gave us his number in case we wanted to go anywhere else during our holiday. I would definitely recommend Obama, and if we return to Sri Lanka we will use him for other trips.
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
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Riu Lanka Tours & Travels, who run 6 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.4.
See everything Riu Lanka Tours & Travels runsWhy this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hikkaduwa.
How much does Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple cost?
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Prices start at $210 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Hikkaduwa usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple 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 Hikkaduwa is not rushed.
Is Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Hikkaduwa, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple?
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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 Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple 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 Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple?
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Around 2 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 Hikkaduwa 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 Hikkaduwa and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple 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 Hikkaduwa 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 Hikkaduwa?
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On Outty we rank every Hikkaduwa experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Most Recommended Round Tour in Sri Lanka, Kayaking Adventure on serene waters through mangroves, Akurala, 7 Days Private Sri Lanka Tour With 4 Star Hotels, Safari & Ella. 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 Hikkaduwa?
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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 Hikkaduwa?
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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 Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple?
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Included: Bottled water; and Entrance fees. Not included: Alcoholic beverages. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 10 listed pickup locations in and around Hikkaduwa. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple offered in?
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It is offered in German, English and French. 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 Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple?
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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 Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple 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 Sigiriya Lion Rock With Dabulla Cave Temple?
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Across 5 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, organization. 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.
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