Sigiriya Lion Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple tour in Sri Lanka
Description
Admiring any UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treat. But seeing two in one day is positively spoiling yourself. This history-rich tour takes in two of Sri Lanka's standout sites – the Lion Rock of Sigiriya and the Dambulla Cave Temple. Tharindu, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Sigiriya is a fascinating time capsule of a place. It was once home to King Kasyapa who built a royal citadel and palace complex on top of the rocky outcrop.' First up is the Lion Rock of Sigiriya – Asia's answer to Machu Picchu. Rising 200 metres above the jungle, it boasts ancient frescoes, terraced gardens and stunning views. Climb the stairs cut directly into the rock and pass through the impressive lion-shaped gateway to explore the ruins of a 5th century royal palace. Tharindu adds, 'The panoramic views from this 200-metre-high rock fortress are nothing short of spectacular, and make the walk up worthwhile.' After lunch, we'll continue to the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple. Created inside five caverns, this Buddhist cave temple is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a major cultural landmark in Sri Lanka. Adorned with ancient murals depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha, Jataka tales, and various deities, you'll get a close-up look at the artistic traditions of ancient Sri Lanka. As well as frescoes, the caves contain more than 100 statues of Buddha including a vast 14-metre-long reclining Buddha – there is an abundance of beauty here and it makes a serene end to your trip.
Location Map
Highlights
Exclusions
Terms & Conditions for This Tour
These are the key terms that apply to tour bookings. They form part of your contract with 1860 Travels — see the full Terms & Conditions for the complete text.
Pricing, Inclusions & Exclusions
- Prices are per person unless stated otherwise, and may change at any time until your booking confirmation is issued.
- The Inclusions and Exclusions listed on this page are specific to this tour — anything not listed under Inclusions is excluded from the price.
- Prices exclude local taxes, charges, gratuities, food and beverages, and transfers unless expressly stated otherwise. Gratuities are entirely at your discretion.
- Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Student and senior (60+) pricing requires valid ID at the time of booking and on the day of travel.
- Group tariffs may be available for parties of 10 or more — contact us for a quote.
Amendments & Cancellations
- Amendments to this booking can be made by contacting us at least 96 hours before the departure date.
- Cancellation notice must be received at least 1 week before departure, otherwise a 100% cancellation charge applies.
- Theatre tickets, dining products, and overnight tours cannot be amended or cancelled unless otherwise stated at the time of booking.
- For health or pandemic-related cancellations, options may include a travel credit voucher, rebooking on flexible dates, or a full refund, subject to the specific product's conditions.
- If you miss a coach tour through no fault of 1860 Travels, no refund will be issued; a discounted rebooking rate may be offered as a gesture of goodwill.
Refunds & Compensation
- If a venue cannot be visited during the tour due to unforeseen circumstances, a partial refund of the admission value may be issued at our discretion.
- No refund is given for non-operational air conditioning or washroom facilities on an assigned vehicle.
- Refund requests cannot be accepted more than 30 days after the tour's completion.
- Approved refunds are processed within 15–20 working days via the original payment method.
- Third-party tours where 1860 Travels acts as an agent are non-refundable and subject to the supplier's own terms.
Payment
- Full payment is required at the time of booking unless otherwise specified.
- We accept Visa and MasterCard and charge no service fee, though your card issuer may apply its own charges.
- Customer payments are held in a dedicated client money trust account until your booking is completed or cancelled.
