Sigiriya Rock and Village Experience from Colombo,Negombo or Kandy

Gain a better understating for Sri Lanka, the island nation in the Indian Ocean, on this full-day day trip to Sigiriya and Hiriwadunna from Colombo, Negombo or Kandy. From riding a bullock cart to exploring a village town, get a feel for what everyday life is like for the people who live there. See the ancient Buddhist ruins, the Sigiriya rock fortress, in Dambulla, and take a boat cruise on a nearby lake.

1. 1

   Sigiriya Lion Rock

   3 hours

   Rising from the central plains, the iconic rocky outcrop of Sigiriya is perhaps Sri Lanka's single most dramatic sight. Near-vertical walls soar to a flat-topped summit that contains the ruins of an ancient civilisation, thought to be once the epicentre of the short-lived kingdom of Kassapa, and there are spellbinding vistas across mist-wrapped forests in the early morning. Climb the 5th century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where the King Kasyapa ruled. Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, ' the Lion Rock'. View the beautiful unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns. Walk through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past.

2. 2

   Sigiriya Craft Village

   2 hours

   Take a bullock cart ride, and see how villagers typically get around Go on a scenic cruise of the nearby lake on a canoe-like boat Stop for a traditional buffet-style lunch made by Hiriwadunnan women (own expense)

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.