Kandy City Tour from Dambulla
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Kandy City Tour from Dambulla

Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour gives you the chance to tour the ancient royal city of Kandy and the surrounding attractions. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic to view its majestic architecture and beautiful shrines. Visit some of the local artisans; such as gem crafters, woodcarvers and/or batik makers. Take some beautiful souvenirs home, while also learning how they are made. Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya to see its famous and rare collection of plant life.

Available options

Per Person

Pickup included

What's included

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle.
Service of English-speaking chauffeur guide.
2 x 500 ml water bottle per person.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Detailed itinerary

1

Dambulla, Sri Lanka, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage site, houses the mesmerizing Dambulla Cave Temple complex, dating back to the 1st century BCE. Set amidst lush greenery, the caves exhibit ancient Buddhist murals and over 150 Buddha statues, offering a profound cultural and spiritual experience for visitors.

2

Visit the famous Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, which were formed in the early 19th century. Walk through the vast area containing over 4000 species of plants. Enjoy the learning more about the orchids, spices and medicinal plants. Wander down avenues shaded by large and rare trees, or bordered by flowering plants. Enjoy seeing the cannonball tree, walking over the wobbly suspension bridge and through the short hedge mazes or even climbing the twisty trees that make wonderful jungle gyms.

3

From the botanical gardens, you will be travelling on to visit the Sri Maha Bodhi Vihara in Bahiravakanda. This monastery placed on a hill is used as a meeting center for National and International Buddhist Relations. The monastery boasts a giant Buddha statue that can be seen from all over Kandy. You will be able to climb up outside to reach a viewpoint that gives you the ultimate scenic views of Kandy. You can take some good photographs there. You will finish viewing it by 12:35 pm and move down into the city.

4

Kandy City Centre, located in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka, stands as a bustling hub of commerce, entertainment, and culture. This vibrant shopping complex offers a diverse array of retail outlets, from luxury boutiques to local artisan stalls, catering to every taste and preference. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Kandy while exploring the center's modern amenities, including cinemas, restaurants, and recreational spaces. Whether indulging in a shopping spree, sampling delicious cuisine, or simply soaking in the energetic atmosphere, Kandy City Centre promises an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists alike.

5
Stop 5

Nestled in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka, lies the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a sanctuary of profound spiritual significance. Housing the relic of the Buddha's tooth, believed to bestow blessings and protection, the temple draws pilgrims and visitors from across the globe. Its architectural splendor reflects the island's rich cultural heritage, adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and ornate golden roofs. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene waters, the temple exudes an aura of tranquility, inviting contemplation and reverence. As a symbol of faith and devotion, it stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's enduring spiritual legacy.

6

This famous show will give you the opportunity to watch various traditional Kandyan dances and acts, such as the Kandyan dance, the demon dance, the fire dance, and much more. Once the show is complete you will be returning to your hotel in Kandy at 6:00 pm, completing your tour.

What's not included

Entrance tickets to the visiting sites.
Food and beverages.
Expenses of personal nature.
Gratuities.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Comfortable walking shoes recommended for this tour. Wearing well-covered attire along with Sandals or Flip Flops are recommend for Temple of the Tooth Relic and to all other religious sights of Sri Lanka.

About Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is a major city in Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and offers a rich cultural and historical experience.

Top Attractions

Sacred City of Anuradhapura

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura is home to ancient stupas, temples, and ruins that date back over 2,000 years.

Historical Full day Free

Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba

One of the tallest stupas in the world, this iconic structure is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Sri Maha Bodhi

A sacred fig tree that is said to have been propagated from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Jethawanaramaya Dagoba

The tallest stupa in Anuradhapura, known for its impressive size and historical significance.

Historical 1 hour Free

Isurumuniya Temple

A beautiful temple known for its rock carvings and serene atmosphere.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked on a hot plate.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Hoppers

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs or sambal.

Breakfast Vegetarian.

Rice and Curry

A staple Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mihintale Exploring Ritigala Forest Monastery Tea tasting Visiting temples Exploring ancient ruins Attending religious ceremonies Witnessing the Esala Perahera festival

Best Time to Visit

January to March

This is the best time to visit Anuradhapura as the weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

UTC+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Anuradhapura is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure.
  • • Use reputable tour operators.
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.

Getting there

By air
  • Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport • 200 km
By train

Anuradhapura Railway Station

By bus

Anuradhapura Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport and cover most areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sacred City New Town Tuktukaraya

Day trips

Mihintale
12 km • Half day

A sacred mountain site where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka, featuring ancient ruins and temples.

Ritigala Forest Monastery
30 km • Full day

A UNESCO-listed forest monastery with ancient ruins and a rich biodiversity.

Avukana Buddha Statue
50 km • Full day

A colossal Buddha statue carved out of a single rock, standing 40 feet tall.

Festivals

Esala Perahera • July/August (full moon day) Poson Festival • June (full moon day) Vesak Festival • April/May (full moon day)

Pro tips

  • Visit the Sacred City early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the historical sites.
  • Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Respect the religious customs and traditions when visiting temples.
  • Carry a water bottle and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 7-80
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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