Two of Sri Lanka's most famous tourist destinations are Sigiriya and Dambulla, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A day trip to these amazing locations is a memorable highlight of any trip to Sri Lanka, as Sigiriya has also been hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
The Sigiriya day tour begins at 6:00 AM from Colombo, with a scenic drive of approximately 4–5 hours to the historic town of Dambulla. Upon arrival, your first stop is the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, followed by a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant recommended by your driver. Later in the day, when the sun is less intense, you'll explore the world-famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress before returning to Colombo.
Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage is demonstrated by the Dambulla Cave Temple, which is perched atop a massive rock that rises more than 160 meters above the surrounding plains. Reaching a summit of 550 meters above sea level, the rock extends more than 1.5 kilometers around its base. During his 14-year exile in the first century BC, King Valagamba (Vattagamini Abhaya) used the caves as a haven. He converted this sanctuary into a magnificent temple complex after retaking his throne in Anuradhapura. Over the centuries, particularly in the eleventh, twelfth, and eighteenth centuries, the site has been conserved and restored. The temple, which was named a World Heritage Site in 1991, has an impressive collection of sculptures and murals, both religious and secular. Highlights consist of
The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a gem of Sri Lanka's cultural legacy, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 and is frequently praised as a contender for the title of Eighth Wonder of the World. History buffs and thrill-seekers alike should not miss this breathtaking rock fortress, which rises 600 feet above the jungle terrain. Visitors would climb through the open mouth and throat of the enormous lion that used to stand at the entrance to the summit path, hence the name Sigiriya, which means "Lion Rock." They still arouse feelings of grandeur and mystery, even though today only the massive lion's paws are left. Nearly an acre in size, the flat-topped summit was turned into a vast royal palace by King Kasyapa.
