Kandy to Sigiriya Drop Tour: An Expert Review with Tips

Planning a trip from Kandy to Sigiriya, Sri Lanka? That scenic journey, is something lots of people dream of doing! But figuring out the transportation and getting everything arranged just right, well that could be a bit stressful. That’s where the ‘Kandy to Sigiriya Drop Tour’ pops in – promising you what I think is a smooth, hassle-free transfer with a chance to sneak in some sightseeing along the way. But does it actually live up to all the hype? I took one for a spin recently, and I am here to give you the lowdown, just the good bits and bad bits, on what you can probably expect.

What is the Kandy to Sigiriya Drop Tour all about?

Basically, it’s what it sounds like: you get picked up in Kandy and dropped off in Sigiriya. That “drop,” though, is the real deal here, that is the heart of it! It’s more than just a point A-to-B transfer. So, too it’s generally a private tour, and it includes stops at a few spots along the way. Those usual suspects? I’m thinking of the Dambulla Cave Temple and maybe a spice garden. Those are some seriously worthwhile experiences, and ones that transform a simple transfer into a bit of an adventure!

Who is this tour perfect for?

If you are the type that doesn’t love herding yourself onto public transportation, or that type who wants full control over your travel schedule, this tour might be just the ticket. Is it for everyone? Of course not! That price point is higher than your typical bus or train ride, yet that’s the trade-off for the extra comfort and the convenience. Maybe you are traveling with your family or a small group, maybe you’re packing a mountain of luggage, or you’re simply all about those comfy door-to-door services – then this could easily be an amazing option. A heads up, though: for die-hard backpackers watching every penny, this could very well be too much of a splurge.

Booking the Tour: What’s the process?

Most tour operators allow you to book online, and a couple are old school enough that you could book with local travel agencies once you land in Sri Lanka. I almost always opt for booking online to make sure that everything is locked in, reading through the reviews, comparing costs, and carefully looking at the included bits (like entrance fees). With any luck, you’ll get prompt confirmation after booking and a point of contact to smooth over all those details ahead of the tour. A good tip for you: have your accommodation details ready and make a note of anything special, such as needing a car seat for a toddler.

The Day Of: From Kandy to Cultural Gems

My ride showed up to pick me up from my hotel in Kandy, right on the dot – I think, at around 8:00 AM. I tend to get a little bit worried about these sorts of things, yet my driver was very easy to spot; he had a sign with my name on it. That vehicle, it was comfortable. It looked very well-maintained with air conditioning pumping which, let me tell you, you will really appreciate it with the Sri Lankan humidity. I felt quite welcome to sit back and relax. Very quickly, my driver told me what was on the day’s to-do list, as well as verifying whether I might want to make any quick detours. That kind of personal touch, it actually made a big difference.

First Stop: Dambulla Cave Temple

After two or so hours on the road, there we were, the Dambulla Cave Temple. Trust me; that’s an incredible spot to stop. Those caves, they are jam-packed with ancient statues and paintings of Buddha. It’s so worth having a look. As I moved around those caves, I started thinking about the stories those walls could share – I really was getting lost in Sri Lanka’s past! Just bear in mind that there is a bit of climbing that’s needed to get to the top, and, too it’s easy to spend a good couple of hours looking around if you seriously want to take it all in.

Optional pit-stop: Spice Garden

That route from Kandy to Sigiriya has countless spice gardens, and a driver will probably want to take you to one. Now, while it could be super cool learning about all of Sri Lanka’s different spices and herbal medicines, these visits are probably tourist traps. Usually, someone walks you around to talk about each plant’s benefits and maybe offers you a quick massage with their oils. It might seem like innocent fun, but get ready because they very heavily push for you to buy stuff, stuff that, incidentally, is really overpriced.

Arrival in Sigiriya and the Final Drop

With about a little more than a day of exploration in the rearview mirror, we drove to Sigiriya. Seeing that giant rock as it comes up on the horizon is sort of awe-inspiring; you can sense you’re close to somewhere incredibly unique. My driver got me right to my hotel’s front door, really unloading my stuff and double checking that I didn’t leave anything in the car. Having someone else manage all those travel hassles, is very good for a weary traveler!

What is good and what could be a little better?

Alright, here’s what I found pretty decent with this Kandy to Sigiriya tour: convenience and total comfort. The private car makes the trip smooth. Getting door-to-door service is really lovely, very much like a cozy hug after travel chaos. Also, is that flexibility to see spots like Dambulla. So, that definitely takes that experience up a notch. That being said, things to be aware of before you book: Those darn extra costs. Yes, the tour cost usually covers transport. Just remember, you need money for entrance fees for attractions plus tips for guides or drivers. And these could add up!

Maximizing Your Tour: Tips and Tricks

Before jumping into your Kandy to Sigiriya adventure, here are several hints that should make it even easier!

• Confirm All the Details: Don’t think twice about getting super specific when chatting about what you expect with your tour operator. Chat about any spots you’re dying to see, any eating places you’re curious about trying, or any particular times that would work best for you.
• Pack Wisely: The weather in Sri Lanka will vary, so layering will be crucial. So too, do not ever leave your hat, sunscreen, or comfortable walking shoes behind!
• Respect the Local Customs: At places of worship (such as the Dambulla Cave Temple), remember to dress modestly. Generally speaking, this translates to covering up the shoulders and knees. It’s very respectful!
• Stay Hydrated: I am going to say it again: Sri Lanka gets seriously hot! Get yourself a refillable water bottle.

How to find the right Tour Operator

Doing a little digging is usually worthwhile to make sure your tour is very, very special. Scour for tour operators online that have heaps of great feedback and check reliable travel forums for some inside advice. Talk with a couple of different companies. Is there an easy point-of-contact? Is everything super-transparent concerning costs and what is covered? Did they adjust everything around what you wanted? Go with those companies who really seem to know their stuff, communicate effectively, and totally understand your needs.

Is the Kandy to Sigiriya Drop Tour Worth It? My two cents

OK, bottom line. Is doing a Kandy to Sigiriya “drop tour” totally worth it? What I think is that it really hinges on your priorities plus the type of traveler you might be. If getting there fast with complete convenience and squeezing in a bit of sightseeing on your way sounds good to you, you should treat yourself with a private tour! Yes, your wallet will definitely feel it, yet some argue that that feeling of ease and stress-free travel, it is kinda priceless. As long as that operator is legit, the prices are completely transparent, and the promises line up with your expectations, that tour, could actually make a solid and memorable cornerstone of all your Sri Lanka exploring!

Essential Information

• What’s included: That private transportation from Kandy to Sigiriya, stops at select destinations (for instance, Dambulla Cave Temple).
• What’s not included: Fees to get into places, food, extra personal purchases.
• Things to note: Have local currency just to cover smaller purchases.

Kandy to Sigiriya Drop Tour: FAQs