Kandy City Tour from Sigiriya
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Kandy City Tour from Sigiriya

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

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

Detailed itinerary

1

Sigiriya, located in Sri Lanka, is an ancient rock fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising dramatically from the central plains, it boasts magnificent frescoes, a royal palace complex, and stunning landscaped gardens. Often dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World," Sigiriya remains a testament to ancient engineering and artistic prowess.

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. (Temple of the sacred tooth relic and Botanical garden)
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 Sigiriya

Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient palace ruins and stunning frescoes. This 5th-century rock fortress offers breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history and culture.

Top Attractions

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

The iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a 5th-century palace and fortress complex built by King Kasyapa. The climb to the top offers stunning views and a glimpse into ancient Sri Lankan history.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours USD 30 (foreign tourists)

Pidurangala Rock

Pidurangala Rock offers an alternative climb with breathtaking views of Sigiriya and the surrounding landscape. It's less crowded and more affordable than Sigiriya Rock.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours USD 5 (entry fee)

Sigiriya Museum

The Sigiriya Museum provides a comprehensive overview of the history and significance of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. It houses artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient site.

Historical/Museum 1 hour USD 10 (foreign tourists)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

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

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian (unless served with egg or meat)

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat, cooked on a hot plate with spices.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian

Fish Ambul Thiyal

A sour and spicy fish curry made with goraka (a type of sour fruit) and a blend of spices.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian, contains seafood

Popular Activities

Rock climbing (Sigiriya and Pidurangala) Jeep safaris (Minneriya National Park) Tea tasting Spa treatments Visiting ancient temples and ruins Watching cultural shows Boat rides on Habarana Lake Elephant rides

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This is the best time to visit Sigiriya due to pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. The clear skies offer the best views of the rock and surrounding landscapes.

25-32°C (77-90°F) 77-90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Sinhala, Tamil
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sigiriya is generally safe for tourists, but common sense and precautions should be taken to ensure a smooth trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
  • • Negotiate prices before starting a journey or purchasing items.
  • • Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air
  • Bandaranayake International Airport • 160 km (100 miles)
  • Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 100 km (62 miles)
By train

Habarana Railway Station

By bus

Habarana Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sigiriya Village Habarana

Day trips

Dambulla Cave Temple
30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day

The Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five intricately decorated caves with statues and frescoes of the Lord Buddha and various deities.

Minneriya National Park
20 km (12.4 miles) • Full day

Minneriya National Park is famous for its elephant gathering, especially during the dry season. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife safaris.

Polonnaruwa Ancient City
50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka. It features well-preserved ruins of royal palaces, temples, and monuments.

Festivals

Esala Perahera • August Sigiriya Festival • August/September

Pro tips

  • Start your climb to Sigiriya Rock early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Hire a local guide for a more detailed and engaging experience at Sigiriya.
  • Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
  • Carry plenty of water and wear sun protection when exploring the rock fortress.
  • Visit the Sigiriya Museum before climbing the rock to gain context and historical insights.
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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