Sigiriya and Dambulla Cave from Kalutara

Highlights

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Itinerary

1. Kalutara, nestled along the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and cultural heritage. The town boasts stunning beaches, where golden sands meet the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, making it a haven for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Kalutara is also home to the iconic Kalutara Bodhiya, a sacred Buddhist site featuring a majestic stupa and tranquil surroundings, attracting pilgrims and tourists seeking spiritual solace amidst natural beauty.

   Passes by

2. Sigiriya Rock Fortress that dominates the Sigiriya area was the capital of the King Kasyapa who ruled in the 5th century AD. The rock was once shaped into the shape of a lion, hence gaining its name. Now only the giant paws remain at the entrance to the climb up the rock. You can get to see the gardens and advanced irrigation systems that Kasyapa had built in his fortress. To this day the ponds remain full of water (though it is no longer as clean), and the remains of the walls and moats of his fortress can be seen. However the most marvelous aspect of Sigiriya, that brought it international fame, is the unfading rock paintings that continue to confuse many experts. Despite being over a millennia old the colors and shapes remain clear and bright as if they were newly painted. Once you return to the base from your climb up the rock, you can also visit the Sigiriya Museum which has some excellent pieces.

   2 h

3. The Dambulla Cave Temple, nestled in the central part of Sri Lanka, is a sacred site renowned for its ancient rock cave complex and religious significance. Carved into a massive granite outcrop, the temple complex comprises five caves adorned with intricate murals and over 150 stunning statues of Buddha, dating back to as early as the 1st century BCE. Each cave holds its unique charm, with elaborate frescoes depicting scenes from Buddha's life and various deities from both Buddhist and Hindu traditions. The temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and religious devotion, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike from across the globe. Its serene ambiance, coupled with the spiritual aura, makes it a captivating destination for those seeking solace, enlightenment, and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's ancient past.

   1.5 h

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Know before you go

How it compares in Kalutara

• Its from-price is 27% below the median of the 103 day trips we list in Kalutara.
• It is longer than most of them.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Kalutara

Kalutara is a coastal town south of Colombo in Sri Lanka, at the mouth of the Kalu river, with a hollow white stupa and palm-fringed beaches.

Kalutara lies on the south-west coast of Sri Lanka, about forty kilometres south of Colombo, where the Kalu river meets the Indian Ocean. The town is best known for the Kalutara Bodhiya, a Buddhist temple beside the river mouth whose white stupa is hollow inside, with a shrine within. The coastal road and railway line pass by, and the broad river is crossed by a long road bridge.

See all 225 experiences in Kalutara