Katunayaka Airport to Kandy and Nuwaraeliya 2 Days
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Katunayaka Airport to Kandy and Nuwaraeliya 2 Days

Active
10h - 1d
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

I will pick you up from the airport and guide you to Kandy, where we’ll begin this memorable experience.

Day 1: Start with a visit to the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, From there, we’ll immerse ourselves in the greenery of Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, home to over 4,000 species of tropical flora. For a breathtaking panoramic view, we’ll continue to Bahirawakanda Temple, where the towering Buddha statue overlooks the entire city of Kandy. If interested, we can also explorelively markets, unique wood-carving, gem shops

Day 2: We drive through the scenic mountain roads to Nuwara Eliya, . Along the way, we’ll stop at a traditional tea factory to experience the world-famous Ceylon tea. Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, we’ll visit the colorful Seetha Amman Temple. Then, wander through the lush landscapes of Hakgala Botanical Garden. Finally, I’ll drive you back to Kandy or drop you at your hotel in Nuwara Eliya for a relaxing evening in the cool hill-country air.

Available options

By Mini Van Air Conditioned

Pickup included

By Airconditioned bus

Air Conditioned Bus<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, located in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world. This stunning temple houses a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The temple complex, with its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Visitors can witness traditional rituals performed daily and immerse themselves in the temple’s peaceful atmosphere while exploring the history and legends surrounding the sacred tooth.

2

Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, located near Kandy, Sri Lanka, is a lush and expansive garden renowned for its rich diversity of tropical plants. Spread across 147 acres, the gardens are home to more than 4,000 plant species, including towering palms, vibrant orchids, and a giant Javan fig tree that’s a popular attraction. Established during the British colonial period, Peradeniya Gardens offers a tranquil escape with beautiful landscapes, scenic riverside views, and carefully curated plant collections. It's a must-visit for nature lovers, botanists, and anyone looking to relax in one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque settings.

3

Bahirawakanda Temple, situated on a hill overlooking Kandy, Sri Lanka, is famous for its enormous Buddha statue, which stands at 88 feet tall and is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. This serene temple offers panoramic views of Kandy and the surrounding lush hills, making it a popular spot for both spiritual reflection and photography. Visitors can climb up to the statue for an even better vantage point, especially beautiful at sunset. The temple is a peaceful place to experience local Buddhist culture, meditate, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Kandy.

4

Glenloch Tea Factory, nestled in Sri Lanka's lush hill country near Nuwara Eliya, offers visitors an authentic experience of Sri Lanka’s renowned tea industry. At this historic tea factory, guests can explore the intricate process of tea production, from the picking of fresh leaves to the drying, rolling, and grading that produce the country's signature flavors. Knowledgeable guides lead tours through the factory, providing insights into tea-making techniques and the history of Ceylon tea. Visitors can sample a variety of premium teas, and even purchase them to take home. Glenloch Tea Factory is a delightful stop for tea enthusiasts and travelers exploring Sri Lanka’s scenic highlands.

5

Seetha Amman Temple, located in the village of Seetha Eliya near Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, is a unique Hindu temple with a rich connection to the Indian epic, the Ramayana. According to legend, this is where Princess Sita, wife of Lord Rama, was held captive by the demon king Ravana. The temple, dedicated to her, features intricate South Indian-style architecture with colorful deities and carvings that depict scenes from the Ramayana. The nearby stream is believed to bear her footprints, adding to the site’s spiritual significance. Seetha Amman Temple attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a blend of history, mythology, and scenic beauty.

6

Hakgala Botanical Garden, located near Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, is the country’s second-largest botanical garden and renowned for its high-altitude collection of flora. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Hakgala Rock, this garden is celebrated for its cool climate and diverse plant species, including vibrant roses, towering conifers, and delicate orchids. Originally established in the 19th century to cultivate cinchona (a source of quinine), it later became a sanctuary for temperate and subtropical plants. Hakgala is especially beautiful during the blooming season, attracting nature lovers, photographers, and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the scenic hill country of Sri Lanka.

What's not included

Food and Snacks
Entrance Tickets

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Negombo

Negombo is a vibrant coastal city in Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, historic Dutch-era architecture, and the bustling fish market. Often called 'Little Rome' due to its significant Catholic population and churches, it offers a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and lively local life.

Top Attractions

Negombo Beach

Negombo Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand along the Indian Ocean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning sunsets.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Negombo Fish Market

The Negombo Fish Market is one of the largest and most vibrant fish markets in Sri Lanka. It's a bustling hub where fishermen sell their daily catch, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood.

Market 1-2 hours Free (Food purchases extra)

St. Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church is a historic Catholic church in Negombo, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. It's a popular pilgrimage site and a key landmark in the city.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Dutch Canal

The Dutch Canal is a historic waterway built by the Dutch during their colonial period. It's a scenic spot for a leisurely walk or boat ride, offering glimpses of local life and nature.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Boat rides extra)

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage is a peaceful retreat nestled in a lush forest. It's a great place for meditation, hiking, and experiencing the serenity of nature.

Nature Half day Free (Donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked with spices and served with gravy.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Seafood Curry

A flavorful curry made with fresh seafood, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, served with rice.

Dinner Contains seafood and coconut.

Hoppers (Appa)

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

Breakfast Vegetarian (unless with egg).

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice cooked in meat stock, wrapped in a banana leaf with meat, sambol, and a hard-boiled egg.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and fish.

Popular Activities

Water sports Boat safaris Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Visiting temples and churches Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rain, making it ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. The city is bustling with tourists during this period.

26-30°C 79-86°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

Negombo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable taxi services or app-based taxis.
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air
  • Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km (22 miles)
By train

Negombo Railway Station

By bus

Negombo Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Negombo. They connect the city center with beaches, markets, and other attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Negombo City Center Negombo Beach Lunuwila

Day trips

Colombo
35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, offering a mix of modern and colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.

Kelani River Safari
40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A scenic boat safari along the Kelani River, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.

Muthurajawela Marsh
20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A unique wetland ecosystem located near Negombo, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boat rides, and nature walks.

Festivals

Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year) Christmas Celebrations • December 25

Pro tips

  • Visit the Negombo Fish Market early in the morning to see the fresh catch and experience the bustling atmosphere.
  • Take a boat ride along the Dutch Canal to enjoy the scenic views and learn about its history.
  • Try local seafood dishes, particularly grilled fish and prawn curry, for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Explore the historic St. Mary's Church and learn about its significance to the local Catholic community.
  • Relax on Negombo Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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