Excursion Sigiriya rock fortress - unesco world heritage site tour at Trincomalee

Scenic Drive to Sigiriya, Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 2.5-hour drive to Sigiriya. Upon arrival, a visit is made to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka's. 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.

Cinnamon Lodge Hotel, Lunch, Return Drive

Following your visit, exit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and walk back down the steps, then re-board your coach and proceed for lunch at the Cinnamon Lodge Hotel. After lunch, re-board your coach and commence the approximately two-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Guided Walking Tour, Gardens, Tanks, Structures, Lion Rock, Exquisite Frescoes, Cinnamon Lodge Hotel, Lunch

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.26 miles (about two kilometres), at times over uneven, stone, sandy, and grassy surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, six steps at the Cinnamon Lodge 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 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. Lunch venue is non air-conditioned. The tour sequence may vary.