Day Excursion to Sigiriya and Minneriya from Colombo
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15h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on an unforgettable full-day tour from Colombo, discover Sri Lanka’s most iconic and cultural treasures in cultural trangle. Begin your journey early morning, travel countryside towards Sigiriya to explore the legendary Lion Rock Fortress, where you’ll ascend to the summit to witness breathtaking panoramic views and marvel at the ancient engineering and frescoes. Afterward, immerse yourself in authentic rural life with a Sigiriya Village Tour, including a catamaran boat experience, tuk-tuk ride, and a delicious home-cooked Sri Lankan meal. As the sun begins to set, head to Minneriya National Park for an exciting evening jeep safari, where you may encounter wild elephants, deer, and vibrant birdlife in their natural habitat. Return to Colombo by night, filled with lasting memories of Sri Lanka’s heritage and nature.
Available options
Day Excursion to Sigiriya and Minneriya from Colombo
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Sri Lankan meal in local village home
Tour assists by an English-speaking chauffeur
Sigiriya Rock Fortress / Sigiriya Village Tour and Minneriya National Park Safari fee
Air-conditioned vehicle
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
06:00 a.m. – Start the Journey from Colombo. Transfer to antient city of Sigiriya.
10.00 a.m - Upon arrival visit, the world-famous Lion Rock Fortress. Climb to the summit to witness the remains of King Kashyapa’s royal citadel, beautiful frescoes, and panoramic views of the surrounding jungle plains.
2
12:30 p.m. – Experience authentic Sri Lankan rural life on a Sigiriya Village Tour. Take a tuk-tuk ride, catamaran boat ride, and join a local cooking demonstration followed by a delicious traditional lunch prepared by village women.
3
03:00 p.m. – Afternoon Safari at Minneriya National Park, for an exciting jeep safari. Witness elephants, deer, monkeys, and an array of birdlife in their natural habitat. The park is famous for the largest Gathering of wild elephants in South Asia.
4
05:00 p.m. – Start return Journey to Colombo.
Relax and enjoy the drive back through the countryside as the sun sets over the country side.
09:30 -10 p.m. – Arrival in Colombo
End of a memorable day filled with culture, nature, and adventure. Drop-off at your pick-up location.
What's not included
Breakfast
Dinner
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Travelers can stay in front of the Galle Face Beach. The chauffer will pick you from there.
About Colombo
Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.
Top Attractions
Galle Face Green
A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free
National Museum of Colombo
Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.
Museum
2-3 hours
LKR 1,000 (foreigners)
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Beira Lake
A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (boat rides may have a small fee)
Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.
Shopping
1-3 hours
Varies by shop
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.
Main Dish
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast/Dinner
Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.
Dinner/Snack
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
Main Dish
Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Water sports
Wildlife safaris
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Yoga
Temple visits
Museum tours
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.
28-32°C
82-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo
By train
Colombo Fort Station
By bus
Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Colombo Fort
Cinnamon Gardens
Galle Face
Pettah
Day trips
Kandy
115 km • Full day
Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.
Galle
120 km • Full day
Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Negombo
35 km • Half day
Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.
Festivals
Vesak • May (full moon day)
Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day)
Christmas • December 25
Pro tips
- Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
- Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
- Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
$366
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
