Explore Dambulla’s wonders: ancient temples, thrilling safaris, and breathtaking hikes. Discover UNESCO sites and wild elephants on this unforgettable private tour.
Explore Dambulla’s wonders: ancient temples, thrilling safaris, and breathtaking hikes. Discover UNESCO sites and wild elephants on this unforgettable private tour.
- Dambulla Cave Temple - This Buddhist temple is a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage marvel. It is renowned for its remarkable series of rock-cut shrines filled with stunning murals, a collection of gold-painted Buddha statues, and its unique architectural design. It is recognized as the largest and best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka….
-
Dambulla Cave Temple - This Buddhist temple is a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage marvel. It is renowned for its remarkable series of rock-cut shrines filled with stunning murals, a collection of gold-painted Buddha statues, and its unique architectural design. It is recognized as the largest and best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. The site features an enchanting array of paintings covering an area of 2,100 m2, which are particularly significant after the golden statues that could delight a curious explorer. A short, slightly steep climb leads to the spacious rock shelters adorned with captivating frescoes on the rock ceiling, showcasing the incredible talent of ancient Sinhalese artists. Arriving early allows visitors to fully enjoy the expedition without haste and completely immerse themselves in its spectacular historic ambiance.
-
Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress - After exploring Dambulla, the journey continues with a 20-minute drive to Sigiriya. It is more fitting to describe Sigiriya as a symbiotic art gallery rather than a fortress, as it is a blend of mesmerizing nature and incredible human interventions, featuring granite works, architecture, enchanting frescoes, and graffiti. Although it was a kingdom, Sigiriya was akin to an ancient metropolitan city in terms of the maritime trade network developed by King Kashyapa in 477 – 495 AD. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking views and the chance to admire the magical man-made constructions. Visitors will marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and enjoy a panoramic view of the vast forest. The ascent involves approximately 1,200 steps, and reaching the summit rewards visitors with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. The visit lasts at least 3 hours, including the ascent and descent.
-
Habarana - After descending from Sigiriya, it will be time for lunch. Visitors can enjoy a meal at a modern restaurant near Sigiriya or opt for a remote village experience to taste authentic and traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry. This experience includes a wonderful village exploration, offering insight into Sri Lanka’s rural local culture and the lifestyles of these authentic communities. It begins with a peaceful bullock cart ride on a village gravel road, one of the most famous transportation systems in early Sri Lanka. Afterwards, a catamaran ride on a local tank leads to a farmer’s mud house, where visitors experience typical Sri Lankan hospitality with an authentic cooking demonstration, followed by a traditional Sri Lankan lunch, possibly prepared by themselves.
-
Minneriya National Park - Depending on interest, a safari jeep awaits at Minneriya National Park, Kaudulla National Park, or Hurulu Eco Park, depending on the seasonal movements of elephants. An expert guide will choose the best park based on the day’s weather conditions, ensuring the best elephant viewing experience. This 2.5-hour safari offers the chance to spot elephants and encounter spotted deer, foxes, mongooses, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
-
Pidurangala Rock - After the safari, if time permits, visitors may head to the stunning Pidurangala Rock (the brother rock of Sigiriya) to capture the magical sunset. The climb can be challenging, but the breathtaking views from the top make it worthwhile. It offers an incredible 360-degree viewpoint opposite the world-famous Sigiriya Lion Rock, making it one of the best locations for enjoying either sunrise or sunset on the island, after the golden beaches.

- Private transportation
- Entry Fees to Pidurangala Rock
- Pick-Up and Drop-Off Service
- Bottled water
- Remote Village Tour & Traditional Lunch
- Professional & Licensed Tourist Guide for the whole Tour
- Refreshments
- Private transportation
- Entry Fees to Pidurangala Rock
- Pick-Up and Drop-Off Service
- Bottled water
- Remote Village Tour & Traditional Lunch
- Professional & Licensed Tourist Guide for the whole Tour
- Refreshments
- Entrance fees
- Admission fees
- Gratuities
- Expenses in Personal Nature
- Entrance fees
- Admission fees
- Gratuities
- Expenses in Personal Nature
Join a guided tour of the Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Lion’s Rock, Hiriwadunna Village, Minneriya National Park Safari, and Pidurangala Sunrise Hike.
• Admire the ancient artwork at the UNESCO-listed Buddhist Cave Temple of Dambulla.
• Climb the impressive Sigiriya Lion’s Rock and be amazed by its captivating frescoes, architecture, and engineering….
Join a guided tour of the Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Lion’s Rock, Hiriwadunna Village, Minneriya National Park Safari, and Pidurangala Sunrise Hike.
• Admire the ancient artwork at the UNESCO-listed Buddhist Cave Temple of Dambulla.
• Climb the impressive Sigiriya Lion’s Rock and be amazed by its captivating frescoes, architecture, and engineering.
• Enjoy a 4×4 safari ride to witness the world’s largest gathering of Asian wild elephants.
• Savor authentic cuisine at a farmer’s mud house while enjoying a catamaran ride on a village tank.
• At dusk, take on another challenging hike to the top of Pidurangala Rock to experience the magical sunset.
Conclude the day with a sense of accomplishment, having explored two world-renowned UNESCO Heritage Sites and the largest gathering of wild elephants, marking the day as a once-in-a-lifetime experience in your diary.
- Meeting time is subject to change: if this occurs you will receive a message or a call from your host
- Individuals with disabilities or special health needs must note it on their booking
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.