Kandy to Sigiriya and Dambulla Private Day Tour
Active
9h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
• A private day tour from Kandy to Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Minneriya National Park with a driver-guide for extra insight.
• A large, comfortable sedan driven by a registered chauffer driver.
• Enjoy traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch in Sigiriya village. (For an additional fee)
• Return hotel transfers are included back to the starting point or any location you prefer.
All of it in one day on this action-packed, customizable Kandy to Sigiriya day tour. You can add and omit attractions to best suit your interests. Cover two UNESCO sites and wildlife at their natural behavior and many more possibilities with careful planning of time and itinerary. You can also opt to get a village tour, bull cart, and boat ride for an extra fee. instead of Minneriya Safari. The Pidurangala Rock hike is also another possibility, if you are up to it.
Lets enjoy Sigiriya and Dambulla—An experience of a lifetime
Available options
Private Day Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
All taxes and fees for the vehicle and chauffeur
Transport by private air-conditioned sedan car
Detailed itinerary
1
Sigiriya, the ancient municipal complex
2
Dambulla Golden Rock Temple, a UNESCO site, is an ancient temple situated in the central part of Sri Lanka, where plenty of time-old caves, rock temples, statues, paintings, and murals are the main attractions for the guests.
3
Minneriya National Park Safari is best for watch the largest wild asian elephant gathering! Also see other animals & birds on safari.
4
Muthumariamman Temple is a Hindu temple, with large number of detailed small statues of Hindu deities. One should look closely to observe all the little details, which is the work of hundreds of designers, painters and architects from Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.
What's not included
Entrance fees : Dambulla Cave Temple
Entrance fees : Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Entrance fees : Pidurangala Rock
Minneriya Safari Jeep
Safari Entrance Fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Pregnant travellers may have to sit out some activities.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
