How To Get From Sigiriya To Kandy: The Complete Travel Guide
Planning your journey from the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the cultural capital of Kandy? This popular route takes travelers from the ancient wonders of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle to the bustling hill city that houses the sacred Temple of the Tooth.
With approximately 90 kilometers between these two UNESCO World Heritage destinations, choosing the right transportation method is crucial for maximizing your Sri Lankan adventure.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all transportation options with a special focus on why hiring a private taxi is your best choice for comfort, convenience, and making the most of this culturally rich journey.
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance: Approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles)
- Travel Time: 2.5-3 hours (Direct route)
- Road Conditions: Generally good with some winding sections in the hills approaching Kandy
How Many Ways to Go From Sigiriya to Kandy
There are 4 main ways to travel from Sigiriya to Kandy, each offering different levels of comfort, convenience, and cost. Here’s a complete overview of your transportation options:
- 1. Private Taxi
- 2. Public Bus
- 3. Shared Minivan
- 4. Tuk-Tuk
Why Choose a Private Taxi for Your Sigiriya to Kandy Journey?
Don’t waste precious vacation time on complicated bus transfers or uncomfortable travel. Vehicle Hire Sri Lanka offers the perfect solution for your Sigiriya to Kandy journey:
✅ Door-to-door convenience – No struggling with luggage or finding bus connections
✅ Cultural immersion – Stop at UNESCO sites along the way (impossible with public transport)
✅ Air-conditioned comfort – Travel in modern, clean vehicles with professional drivers
✅ Local knowledge included – Our English-speaking drivers share cultural insights and history
✅ Flexible departures – Choose your own pickup time that fits your schedule
✅ Great value – Prices from just LKR 12,000-LKR 22,000 for the entire vehicle (not per person!)
Ready to book your comfortable journey? Click here to reserve your private taxi now
Many travelers tell us this journey becomes a highlight of their Sri Lankan experience rather than just a transfer when they choose our private taxi service.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ BEST CHOICE: Private Taxi with Vehicle Hire Sri Lanka
| Feature | 🚕 Private Taxi BOOK NOW |
🚌 Public Bus | 🚂 Train | 🛺 Tuk-Tuk | 🚐 Shared Minivan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Journey Time | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 2.5-3 hrs |
⭐⭐ 4-5 hrs |
❌ No direct route | ⭐⭐ 3.5-4 hrs |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3-3.5 hrs |
| Door-to-Door | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| AC Available | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited | ❌ No direct route | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Scenic Stops | ✅ Unlimited | ❌ None | ❌ No direct route | ✅ Limited | ❌ None |
| Comfort Level | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ❌ No direct route | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Luggage Space | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ❌ No direct route | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Booking Ease | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Online |
⭐⭐⭐ In-person |
❌ No direct route | ⭐⭐⭐ In-person |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Online |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ No direct route | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| BOOK HERE | CLICK TO BOOK | Not available online | Not available | Not available online | Limited availability |
Public Bus: The Budget Option
Public buses provide the most economical way to travel from Sigiriya to Kandy, but require a transfer and more time. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the bus journey:
Step 1: Sigiriya to Dambulla
Since there are no direct buses from Sigiriya to Kandy, you must first travel to Dambulla:
- Bus type: Local public bus (non-AC)
- Journey time: 30-45 minutes
- Cost: LKR 100-150 (approximately $0.30-0.35)
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Departure point: Sigiriya Junction Bus stop
- Bus condition: Basic seating, often crowded, windows for ventilation
- Luggage space: Limited (must keep bags on your lap or at your feet)
Local Insight: “The Sigiriya to Dambulla buses can get very crowded with locals. If you have large bags, try to board at Sigiriya Junction where the bus starts its route to get a seat.”
Step 2: Dambulla to Kandy
From Dambulla, you have two bus options to continue to Kandy:
Option A: Regular Public Bus
- Bus type: Standard public bus (non-AC)
- Journey time: 3-3.5 hours
- Cost: LKR 200-300 (approximately $0.70-0.90)
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Departure point: Dambulla Main Bus Stand
- Bus condition: Basic seating, windows for ventilation, can be crowded
- Route number: Typically #49
Option B: Semi-Luxury/AC Bus
- Bus type: Semi-luxury or AC bus
- Journey time: 2.5-3 hours
- Cost: LKR 600-900 (approximately $2.00-3.00)
- Frequency: Less frequent – approximately every 1-2 hours
- Departure point: Dambulla Main Bus Stand
- Bus condition: More comfortable seating, air conditioning, less crowded
- Operator: Typically operated by private companies like Superline or Gamunu
Important Bus Information:
- The first bus from Dambulla to Kandy departs around 5:30 AM
- The last bus typically departs around 6:00 PM
- AC buses are more frequent in the morning (6:00 AM to 10:00 AM)
- Total journey time including transfer: 4-5 hours
- Total cost: LKR 200-420 ($0.65-1.40) depending on bus type
Bus Travel Tips:
- Arrive at Dambulla bus stand 30 minutes before your intended departure to find the right bus
- Keep smaller denominations of cash ready for tickets
- Bus conductors will come to collect fares after departure
- Hold onto your ticket until the end of your journey
- Keep valuables secure and within sight at all times
- For AC buses, look for the “A/C” or “Semi-Luxury” sign on the bus windshield
- Buses can be very crowded during rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM)
Traveler Experience: “We took the AC bus from Dambulla to Kandy which was significantly more comfortable than the local bus from Sigiriya. The air conditioning worked well, seats were assigned, and it wasn’t overcrowded. Well worth the extra cost for the 3-hour journey.” – Tourist Review from TripAdvisor
Tuk-Tuk: The Local Experience
While not ideal for the full journey due to the distance, some travelers opt for a tuk-tuk for a more open-air, local experience.
- Travel time: 3.5-4 hours (with breaks)
- Cost: LKR 5,000-6500 (USD 15-20)
- Arrangement: Negotiate with local tuk-tuk drivers in Sigiriya
- Best for: Solo travelers or couples with minimal luggage
The Tuk-Tuk Experience: A tuk-tuk journey offers unobstructed views and a more intimate connection with the passing landscape. However, the long distance, exposure to weather and dust, and limited comfort make this challenging for many travelers.
Advantages:
- Authentic local experience
- Ability to stop frequently for photos and breaks
- Open-air views of the surroundings
- Direct door-to-door service
Disadvantages:
- Uncomfortable for long distances
- Exposure to weather (rain, heat, dust)
- Very limited luggage space
- Slower speeds, especially on hills approaching Kandy
- Safety concerns on busier roads
- Communication barriers with some drivers
Adventurous Traveler Note: “The tuk-tuk journey was fun for the first hour but became quite uncomfortable as we hit the winding roads into Kandy. The lack of suspension made every bump noticeable. Great for short distances, but I wouldn’t recommend it for this full journey.” – Adventure Seeker
Shared Minivan Services
Shared minivan services offer a middle ground between private taxis and public buses, providing reasonable comfort at a mid-range price.
- Operators: Sigiriya Transit, Kandy Express, Lanka Transfers
- Departure times: Usually morning departures at 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM
- Pickup: Central pickup points in Sigiriya (not door-to-door)
- Travel time: 3-3.5 hours
- Cost: LKR 2,500-3,000 per person (USD 8-10)
- Vehicle type: 12-15 seater air-conditioned vans
- Booking: Through hotels or online 24 hours in advance
- Luggage allowance: One medium suitcase per person
Advantages:
- More comfortable than public buses
- Air-conditioned transport
- Faster than public buses with fewer stops
- More affordable than private taxis for solo travelers
- Opportunity to meet other travelers
Disadvantages:
- Fixed schedule with no flexibility
- No cultural stops along the way
- Not truly door-to-door (central pickup/drop-off points)
- Can be delayed by other passengers
- Limited legroom and personal space
Best for: Solo travelers or couples looking for a balance between cost and comfort without interest in stopping at attractions en route.
Most Scenic Routes from Sigiriya to Kandy
The journey from Sigiriya to Kandy offers several route options, each with its own unique attractions and landscapes. With a private taxi, you can select the route that best matches your interests.
Main Route: Via Dambulla and Matale (A9 Highway)
The Classic Journey (2.5-3 hours direct)
- Sigiriya → Dambulla (25 minutes)
- Pass rural villages and agricultural landscapes
- Views of distant rock formations and occasional wild elephants
- Option to visit the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temples
- Dambulla → Matale (1 hour)
- Gradual transition from plains to hills
- Spice gardens and agricultural areas
- Colorful Hindu temples along the roadside
- Matale → Kandy (1 hour)
- Increasingly mountainous terrain
- Tea plantations begin to appear
- Winding roads with scenic valley views
This direct route offers the perfect balance of efficiency and cultural interest. Without stops, it’s approximately 2.5-3 hours of driving time.
Cultural Heritage Route (adds 1-2 hours)
This enhanced itinerary incorporates key cultural sites:
- Sigiriya → Dambulla Cave Temples (30 minutes + 1.5 hours visit)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site with 80+ caves
- Five main caves housing 153 Buddha statues
- Ancient paintings dating back to 1st century BCE
- Elevated position offering panoramic views of the surroundings
- Dambulla → Nalanda Gedige (40 minutes + 30 minutes visit)
- Unique ancient stone temple blending Hindu and Buddhist architecture
- Dating from the 8th-10th centuries
- Archaeological site rarely visited by tour groups
- Nalanda Gedige → Aluviharaya Rock Cave Temple (20 minutes + 45 minutes visit)
- Historic Buddhist temple where the Pali Canon was first written down
- Ancient rock inscriptions and cave paintings
- Still functioning as an active place of worship
- Aluviharaya → Matale Spice Garden (15 minutes + 1 hour visit)
- Educational tour of Sri Lanka’s famous spices
- Demonstration of traditional Ayurvedic medicine
- Opportunity to purchase authentic spices and herbal remedies
- Matale → Kandy (1 hour)
- Scenic drive through the foothills of the central highlands
- Arrival at the sacred city of Kandy
Cultural Enthusiast Feedback: “This route gave us a perfect introduction to Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Our driver arranged each stop with perfect timing, including a traditional lunch at a spice garden. We would have missed these incredible sites if we’d taken the bus.” – Cultural Heritage Foundation Member
Scenic Nature Route (adds 1-2 hours)
For travelers interested in Sri Lanka’s natural beauty:
- Sigiriya → Dambulla (25 minutes)
- Optional quick stop at the Golden Buddha and Cave Temples
- Dambulla → Riverstone Area (1 hour + 1 hour exploration)
- Off-the-beaten-path mountain scenery
- Mini World’s End viewpoint
- Dramatic landscapes and cooler climate
- Riverstone → Knuckles Mountain Range (Edge route, 1 hour scenic drive)
- UNESCO-listed mountain landscapes
- Cloud forests and unique biodiversity
- Panoramic views from multiple vantage points
- Knuckles → Kandy (via Hunnasgiriya, 1 hour)
- Dramatic descent into Kandy valley
- Tea plantations and colonial-era architecture
- Arrival in Kandy from the eastern approach
Nature Lover Review: “Our driver suggested this alternative route when he learned we loved nature and photography. The Knuckles Mountain views were absolutely stunning and we barely saw other tourists. This detour made our transfer day one of our favorite days in Sri Lanka.” – Wildlife Photographer
FAQs About Traveling from Sigiriya to Kandy
Q: Is there a direct train from Sigiriya to Kandy?
A: No, there is no train station in Sigiriya. The nearest railway stations are in Habarana (21km away) and Matale, but neither offers convenient connections to Kandy for tourist purposes.
Q: How much should I expect to pay for a private taxi?
A private taxi typically costs between LKR 12,000-22,000 ($40-75 USD) depending on vehicle type and whether you include stops at attractions. This price is for the entire vehicle, not per person, making it excellent value for families and small groups.
: Are there any good places to eat lunch between Sigiriya and Kandy?
Yes, there are several good options. Spice gardens in Matale often offer authentic Sri Lankan meals. There are also quality restaurants in Dambulla and near Matale. Your private driver can recommend restaurants based on your preferences.
Q: Is it possible to visit Dambulla Cave Temples on the way to Kandy?
Absolutely! The Dambulla Cave Temples are directly on the route and make an excellent stop. With a private taxi, you can easily include this UNESCO World Heritage site in your journey, spending about 1.5 hours there.
Q: How long does the journey take if I want to make stops along the way?
With cultural stops such as Dambulla Cave Temples and a spice garden, plan for a total journey time of 5-6 hours. This includes approximately 3 hours of driving time plus 2-3 hours for visits and a lunch break.
Is it safe to travel this route?
Yes, the route from Sigiriya to Kandy is generally safe and well-traveled by tourists. The roads are mostly well-maintained, though the approach to Kandy involves some winding mountain roads.
Q: What’s the best time of day to travel from Sigiriya to Kandy?
Morning departures (between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM) are ideal. This timing allows you to visit attractions along the way and reach Kandy before the evening rush hour traffic.
Q: Are there ATMs along the route?
Yes, you’ll find ATMs in Dambulla and Matale. However, it’s advisable to withdraw sufficient cash before departing Sigiriya as some smaller attractions and shops may only accept cash.
Conclusion
After comparing all transportation options from Sigiriya to Kandy, the private taxi service emerges as the clear winner for travelers who value:
- Time efficiency: Saving 1-2 hours compared to other options
- Comfort: Air-conditioned, spacious vehicles with professional drivers
- Cultural enrichment: The ability to visit significant sites along the way
- Convenience: Door-to-door service with no transfers
- Flexibility: Freedom to customize your journey
- Local expertise: Knowledgeable drivers who enhance your understanding of Sri Lankan culture
While budget travelers might opt for public transportation, the advantages of hiring a private taxi through Vehicle Hire Sri Lanka far outweigh the extra cost, especially when traveling with family or friends to share the expense.
Experience the journey from Sigiriya to Kandy not just as a transfer but as an integral part of your Sri Lankan cultural adventure!
