Day-trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya - Lanka Ramayana Tour

Kandy , Sri Lanka

Day-trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya - Lanka Ramayana Tour

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8h - 11h

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About this experience

On the way back from Ashoka Vatika to Kandy, we will have a break at Gregory Lake, which was created in the British colonial period and has recently earned a reputation for recreational activities. From here, you can spot Sri Lanka's highest peak, Mount Pidurutalagala, but only on sunny days.

Our experienced drivers are known for careful driving. They have been doing these tours for 5 years. Their cultural & historical expertise well-founded.

Available options

Day-trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya - Lanka Ramayana Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Cup of Black Tea at Damro Tea Factory

Total Parking charges

Cup of Herbal Tea at Spice Garden

Knowledgeable English speaking driver

Road Tax & Insurance Tax

Water bottles, 1000 ml per person

Passenger Insurance cover 500,000 LKR P.P

Total fuel cost

Air-Conditioned vehicle

Replacement vehicle in case of unlucky events - with new driver

Detailed itinerary

Take your break at Surathura Spice & Herbal Garden in Udapalatha, see tropical spice plants and learn more about herbs used in traditional Ayurveda and enjoy the welcome cup of herbal tea.

For Hindus, the Sri Baktha Hanuman Temple of Thawalamtenne in Ramboda is of special significance, because it is believed that Lord Hanuman used this place as a base when conducting his search operation for Sita Devi on the island of Lanka. From observation platforms, you can also have a view to the mountain called Rama rock by pilgrims, as told in the epic's 5th book known as Sundara Kanda.

The Ramboda area is also one of the settings of the Battle of Lanka, the episodes of which are reported in the 6th Book of the Ramayana called Yuddha Kandha.

The place of the temple was chosen due to the vibrations of Hanuman Hindus can still experience here. From the platform of the temple, you can see the peak known as Hanuman Sleeping Mountains.

Stop 3

Have a break of your journey at the waterfalls known as Rama Falls in Ramboda. The water is coming through the Rama rocks. Enjoy the scenic views of the Ramboda area and Kotmale valley.

When visiting the tea factory of Damro, in one of Sri Lanka's largest tea plantations historically known as Labookellie, you will learn more about all the steps of the tea leaf processing, withering, rolling, oxidation/fermentation, drying, and quality sorting. Afterwards you take a break with a complimentary cup of tea ans shopping oppurtunities.

Nuwara Eliya, of course, is the highlight of the tour. Before visiting the Gayathri Peetham, which is the first temple for this goddess in Sri Lanka and shelters the island's largest Lingam, enjoy a small city tour in Nuwara Eliya, which due to it’s cool climate became a British Hill Station, earning the nickname “Little England”. You will see the post office, Grand Hotel and Hill Club in the English style of timber framing, have a view to the golf course and the race course.

The most revered Ramayana Site on the island of Sri Lanka is Ashoka Vatika, the grove of Sita Devi's captivity, where she was found by Lord Hanuman, identifying himself with the ring of Lord Rama. Near the Sita Amman Kovil in Seetha Eliya you can see the footprints of Hanuman in the bed of the stream and recognize his face shaped by Hakgala rock, which can be seen from a distance.

Stop 7

What's not included

Entry fees of visiting site or activities

Extra person in vehicle other than those who booked

Extra excursions not mentioned in the itinerary

Food, meals, other beverages than water

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

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.