Sigiriya & Dambulla Day Tour From Colombo

Start your journey with pickup at 6am from your accommodation in Colombo with a packed breakfast from your hotel to embark on a journey to Dambulla, which is approximately a 4-hour drive. Climb to Lion Staircase to see the remains of the Royal Residence of King Kasyapa and his Harem. The Sigiriya Citadel was a lavish compound protected by two moats and three ramparts, which was the private residence of King Kasyapa and his harem. The centre of this complex was dominated by a menacing black column of rock 600 feet high around which he constructed lush gardens, ponds, palaces and pavilions. Witness the exquisite multicolored tapestry depicting celestial nymphs, known today as the Sigiriya Frescoes. Capture images of the massive gatehouse in the form of a sphinx-like lion giving his lair its name, Sigiriya–Lion Mountain. The ruins seen today are less than 20% of the structures that graced the area. Next, explore Sigiriya Museum located about 200 meters from the main entrance. From 12pm - 1pm, enjoy a buffet lunch.(Own expense) After spending sometime at the museum and eating lunch,(Own expense) at 4pm, visit Dambulla Cave Temple. The Seated Buddha Dambulla Cave Temple is located about 30 minutes (24 km) from Sigiriya. It is the largest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka. It has been a fully functioning temple since its inception over two thousand years ago. The recorded history of the Dambulla Caves goes back over two thousand years to the time of King Valagama (ruled 103 BC and again 89 BC – 77 BC). The king sort refuge amongst the monks living in these caves when he was ousted from power in 103 BC by South Indian marauders who invaded the country. After a gruelling 14-year campaign, Valagama finally regained control and in thanksgiving built the original vihara on this site. Since then the site has evolved organically into its present state.Since the ancient site is located on a mountainside there is a rather strenuous climb to the top. At 6pm, you will head back to Colombo, which is approximately a 4-hour drive. At around 10pm - 11pm, you will arrive back to your accommodation in Colombo.