Key hubs
Sigiriya airport and railway station
- Airport
- Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo (CMB), about 4 to 5 hours by road; there is also a small domestic airstrip at Sigiriya, so check with operators whether flights are running
- Railway station
- Sigiriya has no station of its own; the nearest railhead is Habarana, then a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride of about 15 to 20 km
- Getting around
- Private car with driver is easiest; tuk-tuks and bicycles work for short distances in the village, and jeeps are used for safaris
How to reach Sigiriya by air
Bandaranaike International Airport near Colombo (CMB) is the main gateway, about 4 to 5 hours by road from Sigiriya. Direct flights from Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad have been reported, but schedules change, so check with airlines. Sigiriya has a small domestic airstrip; confirm any scheduled flights with the operator.
How to reach Sigiriya by train
Sigiriya has no railway station. The nearest railhead is Habarana, about 15 to 20 km away, with trains from Colombo Fort and elsewhere. From Habarana, take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Sigiriya. Confirm timetables locally.
How to reach Sigiriya by road
Sigiriya is reached by road from Colombo, Kandy and Dambulla. Colombo is roughly 4 to 5 hours, Kandy about 3 hours and Dambulla about half an hour. Most visitors use a private car with a driver; buses to Dambulla and local transfers are alternatives.
Getting around Sigiriya
Within the village, tuk-tuks, bicycles and taxis cover most distances. For safaris, use a licensed jeep with a driver. For the rock and gardens, you can walk from the car park. Agree prices before you set off.
For parents and senior travellers
Easy transfers to and in Sigiriya
- Carry water, a hat, sunscreen and a light layer; the summit is windy.
- Ask the airline or railway for wheelchair or porter assistance when you book, not on the day.
- Pre-book the pickup from the airport or station, so nobody has to negotiate with drivers after a long journey.
- Choose arrivals in daylight where you can, and keep the first afternoon free to rest.