Best Ways: How to Get from Kandy to Sigiriya

Are you looking for the best ways to get from Kandy to Sigiriya, Sri Lanka? Sigiriya is one of the most popular destinations, so don’t miss it on your Sri Lanka Itinerary. You can easily take a day trip to Sigiriya and explore the best attractions.

Getting to Sigiriya may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are several ways to get there. You can easily get to Sigiriya by public bus, private transfer, taxi, or tuk tuk.

In this ultimate guide, you will find all the ways to get from Kandy to Sigiriya, such as the cheapest and quickest way to travel, journey times, and how much a bus ticket or taxi will cost.

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How far is it from Kandy to Sigiriya?

The distance between Sigiriya and Kandy is about 90 km, which is 2.5-3 hours, depending on traffic and mode of transport.

Getting from Kandy to Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

There are two ways to get to Sigiriya from Kandy: by bus (3 hours) and by taxi (2.5-3 hours).

Unfortunately, there is no train connection between Kandy and Sigiriya!

Most people only take a day trip to Sigiriya. So make the most of your visit and book online.

Scroll down for more information about which transport is the best for you, how long the journey takes, and how much a taxi or bus ticket will cost.

Kandy to Sigiriya by Taxi, Private Transfer

One of the most comfortable and fastest ways to reach Sigiriya is by taxi.

A taxi from Kandy to Sigiriya starts from 55 USD, depending on the number of passengers, time of day, etc. If you are not traveling alone, the price is affordable!

The journey time is 2.5-3 hours, depending on traffic.

TIP
The taxi drivers do not accept card payments, so you should bring local money!

Alternatively, you can book a private transfer to Sigiriya starting from 72 USD, and 6 pax are allowed.

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Day Trip from Kandy to Sigiriya

A day trip to Sigiriya is a great way to visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple, so even if you can only take a short visit, it’s still worth it.

The tour price includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned vehicle, a local English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch.

So take a day trip from Kandy to Sigiriya and visit the best attractions. Book your tour online.

How to Get from Kandy to Sigiriya by Bus

The cheapest way to get from Kandy to Sigiriya is by public bus, but there is no direct bus connection.

First, you have to travel from Kandy to Dambulla and from there to Sigiriya. The journey takes around 2.5 hours, and the bus fare costs 0,70 USD. There are some A/C buses for 1.50 USD, but they run less frequently.

Local buses depart from the Kandy central bus station (Goods Shed), so take the No. 41-2 bus to Kaduruwela, the No. 42-2 bus to Anuradhapura, or the No. 45 bus to Trincomalee and get off at Dambulla bus stop.

Take care of your valuables, as minor thefts or pickpockets may occur on public transport!

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance! We always choose SafetyWing for our travels.

Kandy to Sigiriya Bus Timetable

The first bus departs at 5:30 am and runs every 30-45 minutes. But we couldn’t find a reliable bus timetable, so we recommend you ask locals for the current bus schedule!

How to Get from Dambulla to Sigiriya

The distance between Sigiriya and Dambulla is 16 km, and the travel time is approximately 30 minutes.

You can easily get from Dambulla to Sigiriya by tuk tuk for 1000 LKR (3 USD) or by local bus for 50 LKR (0.15 USD).

Recommended post → How to Visit Dambulla Cave Temple

Where to Stay in Sigiriya

If you plan to visit Lion Rock and Pidurangala Rock, Sigiriya is the best base. But we suggest booking accommodation with a private pool. These are our recommendations.

Best hotels in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Luxury: Water Garden Sigiriya
Mid-Range: Hotel Sigiriya or Sigiriya Village
Budget: The Nature Park Villa

more hotels in sigiriya

TIP
Alternatively, stay in Dambulla, where accommodation is cheaper and about a 30-minute drive from Sigiriya.

We hope our post on how to get from Kandy to Sigiriya will help you plan your next trip to Sri Lanka. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comments below.

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Transfer – Bookaway

Best Ways: How to Get from Kandy to Sigiriya