Excursion Sigiriya rock fortress by helicopter tour at Trincomalee

Helicopter Flight, Sigiriya, Aerial View of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the airport. Upon arrival, board your helicopter, receive your safety and flight instructions, and begin your scenic, approximately 30-minute helicopter flight-seeing journey to Sigiriya; a convenient alternative for guests who desire aerial shots in addition to their tour, and would prefer to skip the lengthy, round-trip ride between the pier and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This site has a stunning aerial view, with immense natural beauty surrounding it at the base of the rock. Upon arrival, de-board your helicopter and board your vehicle for the approximately 20-minute drive to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. Trekking to this 5th-century rock fortress is an incredibly rewarding experience for history and culture buffs.  

Sigiriya Rock Fortress Walking Tour, Lion Rock, Exquisite Frescoes

A guided walking tour and ascent of over 1,000 steps rewards you with a site is of great historical and archaeological importance, and one of the world's first examples of urban planning with a web of beautifully and elaborately landscaped gardens, tanks and structures. The highlight of your visit is an unusual rock formation called the 'Lion Rock' which rises 656 feet (about 200 metres) from the scrub jungle. Worthy of special mention are the exquisite, 1,600-year old frescoes housed within the rock. Whilst their origins are long obscured by passage of time, the painted 'Damsels of Sigiriya' continue to dazzle visitors with their beauty and intricate detailing.

Jetwing Vil Uyana Hotel, Lunch, Return Drive

Following your visit, exit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and walk back down the steps, then re-board your vehicle and proceed for lunch at the Jetwing Vil Uyana Hotel. After lunch, re-board your vehicle and transfer to the helipad, then board your helicopter and commence the approximately 30-minute helicopter flight back to the airport in Trincomalee. After the flight, approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Helicopter Flight, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Aerial View and Guided Walking Tour, Lion Rock, Exquisite Frescoes, Jetwing Vil Uyana Hotel, Lunch

Note

Please note: This tour is non-refundable within 14 days of sailing. This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 2472 yards (about 2260 metres), at times over uneven, stone, sandy, and grassy surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the vehicle, four steps at the Sigiriya helipad, seven steps at the China Bay Airport, 40 steps at the Jetwing Vil Uyana Hotel, and over 1,000 steps at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The ascent to the cave temple takes approximately 90 minutes. Steps on part of the climb are steep, with risky edges. This tour is recommended for very active guests in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe and non-slip walking shoes, and bring sun protection from the ship. As a rule, proper attire is required to enter religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted, female guests must cover their shoulders, please bring a scarf from the ship. Shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot. Infrastructure in Trincomalee is basic, and local conditions may be challenging: coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions as vehicles and guides are brought in from Colombo. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours and we thank you for your understanding. Some sites may be crowded, and depending on traffic and parking conditions, it may be necessary to cross busy streets. Flash photography is prohibited inside the temple and caves. Guests should not pose besides/in front of the statues of Buddha. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Helicopter flight information:

Guests are required to carry their original passport for the flight. Guests weighing more than 220 pounds (about 100 kilograms) cannot participate on this tour. Weights and complete passport details of each guest are due five days/120 hours prior to call: please contact ShoreConcierge@Silversea.com. The total flight time is approximately 60 minutes (30 minutes each way). Each helicopter seats a maximum of five guests. Due to weight and balance limitations, as well as individual safety and comfort, seating is assigned at the pilot's discretion. A window seat cannot be guaranteed. Guides are provided locally in Trincomalee and Sigiriya; they do not fly with guests due to space limitation. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions, and may be cancelled on short notice.