The Cultural Triangle is best explored with a private car and driver, the most flexible and efficient option in Sri Lanka. Public transport exists but is slow and poorly suited to the dispersed archaeological sites.
The car with driver-guide costs USD 50 to 70 per day all-inclusive (fuel included, driver's lodging covered by themselves through a dedicated network of guesthouses). Book through a reputable local agency or directly with a recommended independent driver. Distances: Sigiriya-Polonnaruwa = 1h30 (70 km), Sigiriya-Dambulla = 30 minutes, Sigiriya-Anuradhapura = 1h30 (100 km), Anuradhapura-Kandy = 3h, Sigiriya-Kandy = 2h30. The roads are in good condition with moderate traffic outside town crossings.
Trains connect Colombo to Anuradhapura (5h) and Polonnaruwa (6h) but serve neither Sigiriya nor Dambulla. The Colombo-Kandy line (3h) is useful for arriving in the Triangle, but within the Triangle itself the train is rarely a relevant option.
Local buses link all towns for USD 1-3 per trip but are crowded, slow and physically demanding in the hot season. Tuk-tuks are perfect for short distances in town and for reaching sites from guesthouses (Sigiriya village to the Rock: USD 2; Polonnaruwa Old Town to the ruins: USD 3).
Bicycle: essential at Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura for exploring the archaeological enclosures. Rental USD 4-5 per day, almost every guesthouse offers them. Avoid cycling during the hottest hours (noon-3 p.m.).
Read also
- Sigiriya, the Lion Rock — Climb of the rocky plug, Maidens frescoes, royal gardens: complete guide to Sri Lanka's flagship site.
- Kandy, sacred city of Sri Lanka — Temple of the Tooth, sacred lake, Peradeniya gardens: the spiritual capital of the Sinhalese.
- Sri Lanka — Complete country guide: visa, budget, regions and best time to visit Ceylon.
- Hill Country — Tea plantations, legendary train and Adam's Peak: the highlands of central Sri Lanka.