How to get from Kandy to Sigiriya
From the lush plateau of Kandy, a hike through the rock fortress of Sigiriya should be a nice change of pace. Located north of Kandy, the Lion’s Rock in Sigiriya is probably the country’s most iconic landmark.
On top of the 200-meter rock plateau, you will find remnants of an ancient civilization that used its vertical walls to protect it from invaders. Surrounding the rock is a maze of gardens and ponds that will take you back to life in Sri Lanka in the 5th century.
When travelling the 90 km from Kandy to Sigiriya, you have two options: you can take the bus for 245 Rs ($2.90) or you can take a taxi for 7,000 Rs ($84.00). Travel time is around 3 hours for both options.
2 ways to get from Kandy to Sigiriya
The bus is the cheapest option at only 245 Rs ($2.90). You will have to take two buses: one from Kandy to Dambulla, and another one from Dambulla to Sigiriya. The journey takes about 3 hours if you exclude the transfer time.
The taxi is the most comfortable option at 7,000 Rs ($84.00). It is way more expensive than the bus, but a good option to consider if you’re travelling in a group, especially if you are with kids.
Kandy to Sigiriya by Bus
There are no direct buses operating from Kandy to Sigiriya. You will first have to take a bus to Dambulla and then transfer to another bus bound for Sigiriya.
Step 1: Kandy to Dambulla by Bus
From the Kandy Goods Shed Bus Stand, take a bus bound for Kaduruwela (#41-2), Anuradhapura (#42-2) or Trincomalee (#45). Fares start at 200 Rs ($2.40) for an ordinary bus and travel time is about 2.5 hours.
Only buses bound for Anuradhapura offer air-conditioned rides. However, these are not as common as ordinary buses and may have an interval of 1 to 2 hours. A ticket costs 420 Rs ($5.00).
We recommend that you depart from Kandy very early in the morning so that you can start your hike in Sigiriya before the sun is in full force. The first bus departs at 05:30 in the morning. Make sure you ask your hotel beforehand about the bus intervals so you can time your arrival at the bus station.
Get off at Dambulla Bus Stand.
Step 2: Dambulla to Sigiriya by Bus
From Dambulla Bus Stand, buses bound for Sigiriya depart at least twice per hour. Travel time is about 30mins and you can get a ticket for at least 45 Rs ($0.50). The bus will drop you off at the park entrance.
Kandy to Sigiriya by Taxi
You can get a taxi from Kandy to Sigiriya for around 7,000 Rs ($84.00) via Uber, but fares can be slightly cheaper or more expensive depending on availability. You can also check the taxi apps PickMe and TaxiGo if you’re hoping for cheaper rates. But, unfortunately, these apps have very limited availability outside the capital city, Colombo.
PRO TIP: Use the code “hpam1ue” or this link to order your first ride with Uber for free!
Just in case none of the above options is available, you can also book a taxi via BookAway for 14,200 Rs ($170.00).
Most popular routes in Sri Lanka
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
