Kandy Culinary & Cultural Day Tour from Kandy

Kandy , Sri Lanka

Kandy Culinary & Cultural Day Tour from Kandy

Active

4h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Start your culinary adventure in Kandy at 7:00 AM with a visit to the bustling local market, where you'll handpick fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and fish. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you interact with local vendors and select the finest ingredients for your meal. After gathering your produce, you'll meet your local host and journey to a traditional village in Kandy.

In this authentic setting, you’ll roll up your sleeves and participate in preparing a delicious Sri Lankan lunch, guided by your host. Learn the secrets of traditional recipes, from fragrant curries to mouth-watering sambols, and savor the fruits of your labor.

After lunch, your cultural experience continues with a visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism's most revered sites. Conclude your day by witnessing the captivating Kandyan Dance Show, a performance rich in Sri Lankan heritage.

Available options

Kandy Culinary & Cultural Day Tour from Kandy

Pickup included

What's included

All Govt. Taxes and Surcharges

Transportation in a A/C Vehicle

Lunch

English speaking guide for the entire tour

Mineral Water Bottle

Detailed itinerary

Market Tours and Cooking Classes:

Visit local markets to buy fresh ingredients, followed by a cooking class in a traditional setting.
Learn to prepare classic Sri Lankan dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, and sambols.

Village Cooking Experience:

Participate in a cooking session in a rural village.
Use clay pots and traditional wood-fired stoves to prepare meals.
Enjoy a meal in a local home, experiencing authentic village hospitality.

The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s most revered and sacred sites. Situated in the heart of Kandy, this historic temple houses the relic of the Buddha's tooth, which is considered a symbol of the island’s sovereignty and spiritual heritage. The temple complex is a stunning example of traditional Kandyan architecture, adorned with intricate woodwork and vibrant murals. Pilgrims and tourists alike are drawn to the temple for its deep cultural significance and the opportunity to witness the daily rituals and ceremonies. The temple also hosts the grand Esala Perahera festival every August, a vibrant celebration featuring traditional drumming, dancing, and beautifully decorated elephants. A visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic offers a profound insight into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist traditions and heritage.

The Kandyan Dancing Show is a captivating display of traditional Sri Lankan dance, deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Kandyan region. Held in Kandy, this vibrant performance showcases the rhythmic and dynamic movements of the Kandyan dance style, characterized by its elaborate costumes, intricate footwork, and expressive gestures. Performers, dressed in ornate attire and adorned with intricate masks, present a series of energetic dances accompanied by traditional drumming and music. The show often features a variety of dance forms, including the fiery "Kandyan Drum Dance," the graceful "Ves Dance," and the ceremonial "Fire Dance." This cultural experience provides a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich artistic traditions and is a must-see for visitors interested in the island’s cultural heritage. The Kandyan Dancing Show is not only a visual spectacle but also a celebration of Sri Lanka’s vibrant cultural identity.

What's not included

Any other services not mentioned above

Usage of guide beyond mentioned timings or anything beyond the itinerary

Any tours to cities not mentioned above

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Kandy

Kandy, the last royal capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Nestled in the hills, it offers a cooler climate and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

This temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. It's a major attraction for both locals and tourists.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake)

A picturesque lake in the heart of Kandy, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic sites.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

One of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia, featuring a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers. It's a great place for nature lovers and photographers.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

A forest reserve adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth, offering a peaceful retreat with walking trails, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (small fee for guided tours)

Kandy Esala Perahera

A grand festival held annually in August, featuring a vibrant procession of dancers, drummers, and elegantly decorated elephants. It's one of the most famous cultural events in Sri Lanka.

Cultural Multiple days Free (special seating may have a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.

Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Hoppers (Appa)

A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

String Hoppers (Idiyappa)

A traditional dish made from rice flour and coconut milk, steamed to form a bowl-like shape, often served with coconut sambal.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking Elephant watching Tea plantation tours Boat rides on Kandy Lake Tea tasting Spas and wellness centers Visiting temples and historic sites Attending cultural performances

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The Esala Perahera festival in August is a major highlight.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kandy is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Bandaranayake International Airport • 100 km

By train

Kandy Railway Station

By bus

Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Kandy. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable for long journeys.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Kandy Peradeniya Daluwala

Day trips

Nuwara Eliya

65 km • Full day

Known as 'Little England' for its colonial architecture and cool climate, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque town surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.

Sigiriya

100 km • Full day

Home to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The climb to the top offers stunning views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history.

Dambulla

80 km • Full day

Home to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five beautifully decorated caves with numerous Buddha statues and murals.

Festivals

Esala Perahera • August Vesak • May (date varies) Kandy Perehera • August (following the Esala Perahera)

Pro tips

Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Take the scenic train journey from Colombo to Kandy for a memorable experience.
Try local street food like kottu roti and wood apple juice for an authentic culinary experience.
Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of Kandy's history and culture.
Attend a cultural dance show to experience the rich traditions and heritage of the region.