Kandy Nature & Culture Tour
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Kandy Nature & Culture Tour

Active
(2 reviews)
4h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Kandy is most beautiful breathtaking city surrounding by the hills and so green nature environment. And also, Kandy Hanthana is the most beautiful area that 3KM behalf from Kandy City. Hanthana is the greenest Eco area that surrounded by Hanthana Mountain with Hanthana Tea State.

During the tour with Tuk-Tuk I will show most highlighted place to you in order to get unmemorable Tuk-Tuk Tour experience of the Kandy Hanthana.
As brief explanation of the tour, as thus

• The Ceylon Tea Museum with Tea State
• Hanthana panoramic view point at Air Ground
• Hanthana mountain Exploring (Not Mountain Hiking)
• Royal Botanical Gardens
• Udawattakele Forest Reserve

TuK -Tuk ride is most excitement experience you can get from this tour. While on the tour you can get riding experience with me at Hanthana Air Ground.

All the time duration are flexible and you can add or remove the sightseeing from the itinerary .So, let's join and get the unforgettable memories you can take from Kandy.

Available options

Tour By TUK-TUK

Bajaj Tuk Tuk<br/>Pickup included

Tour By TUK-TUK Ride

Bajaj Tuk Tuk<br/>Pickup included

Tour By TUK-TUK

Bajaj Tuk Tuk<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Detailed itinerary

1

Hanthana Sadgiri Saya offers travelers a serene escape into nature and spirituality near Kandy. The experience begins with a moderate hike through lush green trails, revealing panoramic mountain views, tea plantations, and local wildlife. Visitors will explore Sadgiri Saya, a peaceful meditation retreat, where they can join a mindfulness session amidst tranquil surroundings.

A highlight is sipping fresh Ceylon tea at a scenic viewpoint while learning about rural Sri Lankan life. The journey blends adventure, culture, and relaxation, perfect for those seeking an offbeat, rejuvenating experience. With breathtaking landscapes and authentic local interactions, this trek leaves travelers with lasting memories of Sri Lanka’s natural and spiritual beauty.

2

Travelers visiting the Ceylon Tea Museum in Kandy will step into Sri Lanka’s rich tea heritage. Housed in a restored 1920s tea factory, the museum showcases vintage machinery, historical photographs, and interactive exhibits detailing the evolution of Ceylon tea.

Guests can explore four floors of displays, watch tea-processing demonstrations, and enjoy a guided tasting session of premium Ceylon teas. The highlight is sipping freshly brewed tea while taking in panoramic views of lush tea plantations from the rooftop café.

The experience blends history, culture, and flavor, offering insight into Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea industry. Perfect for tea lovers and history buffs, this visit promises both education and relaxation amid stunning hill-country scenery.

3

Travelers who book this experience will explore one of Asia's finest botanical gardens, spanning 147 acres along the Mahaweli River. They'll stroll through magnificent avenues of towering palms, including the iconic Java fig tree with its sprawling canopy. The gardens showcase over 4,000 plant species, from vibrant orchids to rare medicinal herbs.

Visitors can admire the suspension bridge, colonial-era bandstand, and beautifully landscaped flower beds. Highlights include the spice garden, giant bamboo collection, and the majestic avenue of royal palms. They may spot monkeys, exotic birds, and butterflies while learning about Sri Lanka's rich biodiversity.

Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, this experience offers a peaceful retreat just 30 minutes from Kandy. Guests can relax in the shade of century-old trees and enjoy the garden's serene beauty at a leisurely pace.

4

Travelers visiting the Kandy War Cemetery will discover a beautifully maintained Commonwealth burial ground honoring WWII soldiers. Nestled in a peaceful hillside setting, the cemetery features immaculate lawns, flowering shrubs, and rows of gleaming white headstones marking the graves of over 200 servicemen.

Visitors can walk among the memorials, reading poignant inscriptions that tell stories of bravery from British, Indian, African, and Sri Lankan troops. The central Stone of Remembrance and Cross of Sacrifice create a solemn focal point for reflection.

This serene site offers a meaningful glimpse into Sri Lanka's wartime history while providing a tranquil space for remembrance. Ideal for history enthusiasts and those paying respects, the cemetery's dignified atmosphere and scenic location make it a moving stop near Kandy's city center.

5

Travelers visiting Okray Wood Carving will discover a century-old family workshop preserving Sri Lanka's traditional woodcraft heritage. Watch master artisans transform fragrant ebony, teak, and sandalwood into intricate sculptures, masks, and furniture using time-honored techniques passed through generations.

Visitors can:

Observe live carving demonstrations of Kandyan-era designs

Explore a gallery showcasing exquisite religious statues and cultural artifacts

Try basic carving under expert guidance (workshop option)

Shop for authentic souvenirs from jewelry boxes to temple-style carvings

This immersive cultural experience reveals the skill behind Sri Lanka's iconic wooden art. Perfect for craft lovers and cultural explorers, Okray offers a rare glimpse into Kandy's living artisan traditions. The fragrant woodshavings and rhythmic chisel sounds create an unforgettable sensory experience.

6

Travelers visiting Isini Gems & Jewellers in Kandy will discover Sri Lanka's world-renowned gem heritage through an immersive journey. They'll witness expert gemologists unveiling the secrets of Ceylon sapphires, rubies, and cat's eyes in a dazzling showroom displaying exquisite handcrafted jewelry.

Visitors can:

Observe live demonstrations of traditional gem-cutting techniques

Learn to identify genuine stones through interactive sessions

Explore a curated collection of certified precious gems and bespoke designs

Customize their own jewelry with skilled artisans

This experience offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at Sri Lanka's gem industry, combining education with luxury. Perfect for jewelry enthusiasts and curious travelers, Isini provides authentic insights into one of the island's most treasured crafts in a sophisticated, air-conditioned setting.

7

Step into a lush urban rainforest with this enchanting nature escape just minutes from Kandy's city center. Travelers will explore the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, a 257-acre protected forest that once served as a royal pleasure garden for Kandyan kings.

Visitors can:

Wander along shaded jungle trails beneath towering canopy trees over 100 years old

Spot wild monkeys, exotic birds like the Sri Lanka hanging parrot, and rare reptiles

Discover hidden Buddhist caves and historic hermitage sites used by monks

Visit the picturesque Senkada Cave with its ancient inscriptions

This serene sanctuary offers a perfect blend of nature and history, with well-maintained paths suitable for all fitness levels. Birdwatchers, photographers, and peace-seekers will especially love this tranquil green oasis where the sounds of the city fade beneath the forest's natural symphony.

8

Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka's vibrant heritage at the Kandyan Cultural Centre, where travelers will witness an electrifying traditional dance performance. The show features dazzling displays of Kandyan Ves dance, fire walking, and drumming that have been preserved for centuries.

Visitors will:

Marvel at acrobatic dancers in ornate costumes spinning to rhythmic drum beats

Witness the breathtaking fire-walking ceremony and peacock dance

Learn about ancient rituals through captivating storytelling

Interact with performers and try basic dance moves after the show

This one-hour spectacle brings to life Sri Lanka's royal arts in an intimate theater setting. Perfect for culture enthusiasts and families, the show offers an unforgettable evening of color, music, and energy – the ideal introduction to Kandy's living traditions.

What's not included

All Fees and Taxes

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-60
1
Childs
Age 4-11
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 2
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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