Colombo to Sigiriya tickets

	Distance 151 km (94.4 miles)
	Price range US$ 5-US$ 253
	Ride Duration Range 30m-5h 52m
	Earliest Departure 18:30
	Latest Departure 23:30
	Most Popular Operator Magical Sri Lanka

Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.

Taking a train from Colombo to Sigiriya

Fastest train: 3h 39m

Cheapest train: US$ 5

The fastest: 3h 39m

The cheapest: US$ 5

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

The fastest: 3h

The cheapest: US$ 24

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

The fastest: 3h

The cheapest: US$ 58

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

English Speaking Staff

The fastest: 30m

The cheapest: US$ 132

The available amenities for this trip are currently unavailable. For specific questions, please contact our customer service, available 24/7.

Traveling from Colombo to Sigiriya in Sri Lanka

Once you’ve explored the vibrant expanse of Colombo, it’s time to journey inland to Sigiriya.

The highlight of your trip to Sigiriya will be Lion Rock, a 200-meter fortress with incredible vistas over the misty forests, lakes and villages below. But there are also national parks and monumental landmarks to explore.

You have a few options to travel between these two locations: car, minivan or train.

Depending on which option you choose, your journey will take anywhere from three to six hours.

Five fascinating things to do in Sigiriya

Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock (Lion Rock): It is an ancient rock fortress of huge archaeological importance, with ruins of a palace built in 477 AD. It takes around two hours to climb.

Enjoy the sunset from the top of Pidurangala Rock: Now that you’ve climbed one rock, why not another? Nearby, Pidurangala Rock has some amazing views of Sigiriya Rock, especially at sunset. Don’t stress. This rock temple is only a 30 to 40-minute climb.

Take a hot air balloon ride: From November to April, you can experience the unique activity of a hot air balloon in Sigiriya. Expect insane views as you depart before sunrise to experience golden hour from the sky.

Check out The Ancient City Of Polonnaruwa: Hundreds of years ago, Polonnaruwa was the capital. Now, you can experience what remains of its temples and their detailed carvings. Bonus if you like monkeys because they’re the only residents living there now.

See the elephants at Minneriya National Park: Just a 25-minute drive from Sigiriya, you can see groups of up to 350 elephants between July and September. Even outside this period, there are still elephants to spot.

How to get from Colombo to Sigiriya

Option one: Car

Travel time: 3 to 4.5 hours

Transferring by private car is one of the most convenient options for those traveling in a group of up to three people. Prices start at $28.

You can choose your pick-up from the Colombo Bandaranaike Airport (CMB) or your hotel. If you are getting picked up from the airport, you’ll get a meet and greet from your driver once you’ve left the terminal.

You can also choose your drop-off location.

Option two: Private minivan

Travel time: 3 to 4.5 hours

Similar to traveling in a car, a minivan is a great option for those traveling as a large family or group of friends. Prices start at $32 per person.

The maximum number of people that a minivan can fit is eight. However, some can only take four, so pay close attention when you book.

Lanka Holiday and Magical Sri Lanka offer minivan service from the airport to any hotel in Sigiriya. You will be greeted after your flight before being whisked off to your private vehicle.

On board, there is air conditioning. And you can travel with up to 20 kg of luggage per person.

Real Lanka Holidays offers transfers from any hotel in Colombo City.

With all the options above, you can choose your departure time and drop-off location.

Option three: Train

Travel Time: 3 to 6 hours

If a train is more your speed, it’s possible to take one from Colombo to Sigiriya.

Sri Lanka Railway is the primary company offering this route.

On your day of departure, you will need to make your way to Colombo Fort Train Station, where all the trains depart.

There are several train stations near Sigiriya: Habarana is 11.2 miles (18.1km) away, Gal Oya is 21.7 miles (34.9km) away, and Kekirawa is 24.6 miles (39.6km) away.

There are a number of seating classes to choose between:

First Class (starting at $8): You can enjoy air conditioning, reclining cushioned seats, small televisions and a toilet on board. This option is ideal for those who wish to avoid busy carriages. You can also purchase food and drinks.

Second Class (starting at $4.70): There is one significant difference between the first and second classes. You will still have comfortable seats. However, there will not be air conditioning. There is also a sleeper train for the after-midnight departure, allowing you to lie in a bunk bed.

Third Class (starting at $4.70): The seats in this class are slightly less comfortable than the other two, but it will still get you from Colombo to Sigiriya in six or fewer hours.

Whichever option you choose, there are many daily departure times.

About the journey from Colombo to Sigiriya

As you say goodbye to Colombo, you will pass through urban and suburban areas before leaving the city behind for more lush scenery. Think rice paddies, breathtaking forests and jungles.

On your approach to Sigiriya, you will hopefully get glimpses of Lions Rock, small, colorful roadside markets, and locals going about their daily lives.

You’ll instantly find so many differences between the two areas.

When is the best time to visit Sigiriya?

Sigiriya is a year-round destination. However, the best months to visit are between January and April. The pleasant temperatures make it suitable for outdoor activities. Particularly if you’re planning to hike Lion Rock. Additionally, the visibility will be optimal.

The best weather means the most tourists, so this is peak season.

During these months, you can expect average temperatures that span from 84.7°F (29.3°C) to 94.8°F (34.9°C).

The less optimal months to visit are between October and December when the most rain falls.