02 Aug 2023
Driver was helpful and also had good time management. At the start of the trip we had some confusion on the exact program as there are many extra options that can be added (safari, village tour, etc) but we could adjust the program on the go and at the end we could make time for everything we wanted to see and even have a very nice lunch too.
We started in an Ayurvedic Garden where the guide showed us the most common spices and produced cosmetics. Entry is free and although there is no pressure, it is nice to be prepared to buy something in the shop (card payment possible) or tip the guide (cash).
Sigiriya rock is a great trip, but don't be surprised by the 1200 steps and the heat radiating from the warm rocks (sunscreen, sunglasses and hat highly advised). The trip takes at least 1.5 hours, but don't hurry, instead take some time in the cool gardens at the entrance, as the exit will be on the other side of the rock. Entry fee is 30 USD per person.
On our request, the driver took us to a nice local restaurant (Sigiri Mount Villa) where we got some great curry with rice.
At the second half of the day, we had time to visit Dambulla Cave Temple and had a chance to see the laying Buddha statues. Entry is 2000 SLR + 200 for shoe storage per person, cash only.
Trip from Colombo starts with a cca 3-3,5 hrs car ride, so we recommend an early start.
There were some logistical confusions during the day and also at the end regarding the advance card payment of the trip, so we suggest double checking and confirming the plans in advance. But all together it was a good and contentful day trip that we can warmly recommend.