Fom Kandy: Sigiriya Rock & Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

Explore the captivating wonders of Sri Lanka’s rich history at Sigiriya Rock and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa.

Standing tall at 660 feet, Sigiriya Rock Fortress offers a thrilling adventure with its 1200 steps and ancient palace ruins.

Meanwhile, Polonnaruwa takes travelers back in time to witness the engineering brilliance of the 12th-century city.

With convenient booking options, transportation, and inclusive packages, embarking on a memorable journey through time has never been easier.

Don’t miss out on these mesmerizing ancient sites.

Good To Know

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a 5th-century marvel that requires climbing 1200 steps to reach the top.
• Polonnaruwa is a 12th-century World Heritage Site showcasing ancient Sri Lanka’s engineering brilliance.
• The activity includes a guided tour of Polonnaruwa Ancient City, visiting landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Gal Viharaya.
• The package includes transportation, entrance fees, refreshments, and government taxes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The activity offers visitors an opportunity to explore the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a remarkable 5th-century marvel, and climb 1200 steps to reach the top. Known for its historical significance, the Sigiriya Rock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands at an impressive height of 660 feet. As visitors make their way to the top, they’ll come across the iconic lion carving at the entrance, adding to the awe-inspiring experience.

The adventure doesn’t end there. The activity also takes visitors to the Polonnaruwa Ancient City, known for its architectural marvels. This 12th-century World Heritage Site showcases the engineering brilliance of ancient Sri Lanka. Highlights of Polonnaruwa include the Royal Palace and Gal Viharaya, where visitors can marvel at the intricate stone carvings and explore the rich history of the ancient city.

Booking and Logistics

Visitors can easily book and plan their visit to the Sigiriya Rock and Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, as the activity offers convenient online reservation options and flexible travel arrangements. The booking process is hassle-free, allowing individuals or groups to secure their spots in advance. With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, visitors have the flexibility to change their plans if needed. The activity has a duration of 10 hours, and starting times can be checked for availability. It is important to note that itineraries are subject to change for reference purposes. To provide a clearer overview, here is a table summarizing the booking and logistics details:

Booking and Logistics
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now and pay later to keep your travel plans flexible
Duration of the activity is 10 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Itineraries are subject to change for reference only

Activity Highlights

One of the main highlights of this activity is exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which showcases the engineering brilliance of ancient Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the advanced civilization that once thrived in this region. Visitors can marvel at the well-preserved historical ruins, including the Royal Palace and Gal Viharaya.

A guided tour of Polonnaruwa Ancient City allows travelers to explore the rich history and learn about the significance of key landmarks such as Nissankamulla Palace and Thuparama stupa.

Another highlight of this activity is the opportunity to climb Sigiriya Rock, a towering 660-foot monolith. This challenging climb rewards adventurers with breathtaking views and a chance to appreciate the ancient rock fortress and its historical significance.

Itinerary Details

Starting at 6:00 AM, visitors will be picked up from their hotel to begin the itinerary for the Sigiriya Rock & Ancient City of Polonnaruwa tour. The day will be filled with adventure and exploration as participants embark on a guided tour of these ancient sites. The itinerary includes a visit to Polonnaruwa, a 12th-century World Heritage Site, where travelers will have the opportunity to discover the Royal Palace and Gal Viharaya, among other key landmarks. At 1:30 PM, the tour will proceed to the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, reaching a height of 660 feet. Participants will climb 1200 steps to reach the top and admire the ancient palace ruins, including the iconic lion carving at the entrance. With a duration of 10 hours, this guided tour promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Time	Activity
6:00 AM	Pick-up from hotel
9:00 AM	Proceed to Polonnaruwa
12:00 PM	Guided tour of Polonnaruwa
1:30 PM	Proceed to Sigiriya
1:30 PM	Climb Sigiriya Rock

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Inclusions and Amenities

The guided tour of the Sigiriya Rock & Ancient City of Polonnaruwa includes various inclusions and amenities for a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Here are the inclusions and amenities provided:

1. Transportation options: The tour includes transportation to and from the hotel in an air-conditioned luxury private vehicle. This ensures a comfortable and convenient journey throughout the tour.

2. Tour guide services: A knowledgeable and experienced tour guide will accompany the group, providing valuable insights and information about the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa. They’ll enhance the tour experience by sharing historical facts and interesting stories about the sites visited.

3. Additional amenities: Complimentary refreshments and water will be provided throughout the tour to keep participants refreshed and hydrated. On top of that, the package includes all entrance fees, fuel surcharge, driver charges, and government taxes, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

With these inclusions and amenities, participants can fully enjoy the rich history and beauty of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa without any worries or inconveniences.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

How tall is the Sigiriya Rock Fortress?

Standing at an impressive height of 660 feet, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a remarkable architectural marvel in Sri Lanka. This ancient rock citadel, located in the Matale District, is renowned for its unique design and historical significance.

The Sigiriya Rock Fortress was built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa and served as a royal palace. The fortress is known for its ingenious architecture, featuring a series of terraced gardens, water gardens, and frescoes depicting beautiful Sigiriya Rock paintings. These paintings, known as the ‘Sigiriya Maidens,’ showcase the artistic and cultural heritage of ancient Sri Lanka.

As visitors climb the 1200 steps to reach the top, they’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making the Sigiriya Rock Fortress a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

After exploring the remarkable Sigiriya Rock Fortress, visitors can journey to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa to witness the engineering brilliance of ancient Sri Lanka.

In Polonnaruwa, they’ll be amazed by the architectural wonders that have stood the test of time. Here are three highlights of Polonnaruwa’s architecture:

1. Royal Palace: The grandeur of the Royal Palace can still be seen in its ruins. Visitors can imagine the opulence and power that once resided within its walls.

2. Gal Viharaya: This rock temple showcases the skill and artistry of ancient Sri Lankan sculptors. The four colossal statues of Buddha carved into the rock are a testament to their talent.

3. Nissankamulla Palace: This palace complex is known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings. It was once the residence of King Nissankamalla, who played a significant role in the history of Polonnaruwa.

The architectural marvels of Polonnaruwa not only showcase the skill of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmen but also hold immense historical significance.

Directions

Visitors can easily navigate their way from Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa through a scenic and well-marked route.

To get to Sigiriya, travelers can hire a private vehicle or take a taxi from Kandy, which is approximately a two-hour drive away.

Once at Sigiriya, exploring the ruins is a captivating experience. The fortress is accessed by climbing 1,200 steps, which might be challenging for some, but the breathtaking views from the top make it worth it.

The ancient city of Polonnaruwa can be reached from Sigiriya by taking a three-hour drive. Upon arrival, visitors can embark on a guided tour of the Polonnaruwa Ancient City, where they can explore fascinating landmarks like the Royal Palace and the Gal Viharaya.

Common Questions

How Long Does It Take to Climb the 1200 Steps to the Top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress?

It takes approximately 1-2 hours to climb the 1200 steps to the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The climbing experience offers breathtaking scenic views, making it a must-do activity for visitors.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa?

There is a dress code for visiting Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa. Visitors are required to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. Photography is allowed, but restrictions may apply in certain areas.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Visiting Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa?

There are no age restrictions for visiting Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa. Visitors of all ages can explore and appreciate the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka’s ancient cities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour or Are There Food Options Available?

Bringing outside food and drinks is allowed on the tour. However, there are also food options available during the activity. Restroom facilities are provided for convenience throughout the tour.

Is There a Restroom Available at Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa?

Restrooms are available at both Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa. They are accessible to all visitors, including disabled individuals, ensuring convenience and comfort during the tour.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, a visit to Sigiriya Rock and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa is an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history. With convenient booking options and inclusive amenities, travelers can easily explore these captivating sites.

Whether climbing the steps of Sigiriya Rock Fortress or marveling at the engineering brilliance of Polonnaruwa, visitors are sure to be mesmerized by the ancient wonders that await them.

Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on this memorable adventure through time.

You can check if your dates are available here: