Hambantota , Sri Lanka

Ancient Temple Private Tour

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About this experience

This exclusive tour for cruise passengers takes you on a journey through time, exploring some of Sri Lanka's most remarkable ancient temples.

Witness the world's tallest Buddha statue and the largest Bodhisattva statue, both sculpted centuries ago. Explore the ruins scattered around these majestic figures.

Marvel at the architectural brilliance of Yudaganawa Stupa, the largest in the Badulla District. Discover Kandyan era paintings and images within the Stupa terrace.

Be mesmerized by the colossal rock carvings depicting the Buddha and other figures. These intricate carvings are believed to date back to the 7th-8th centuries.

Uncover the historical significance of this monastery. Explore the ancient Dagoba, Bo tree, and other monastic buildings.

This tour allows you to experience the artistic mastery, religious significance, and historical importance of these ancient Sri Lankan temples.

Available options

Ancient Temple Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

WiFi on board

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

MALIGAWILA RUINS

The chronicle Mahavamsa mentions that the Buddha image in the site had been sculptured during the reign of King Agbo and the Bodhisatva image during the reign of King Dappula. The Buddha image is the tallest in the world while the largest Bodhisatva image is located close to Maligawila. Apart from the two statues, the premise is strewn with a cluster of ancient ruins.

DEMATAMAL VIHARA (TEMPLE)

The monastic site is 12km from Buttala on the Okkampitiya road. It has an ancient Dagoba, a Bo tree, a House where the monks receive their higher ordination, an Image House and an educational institution for the monks. It consists of all accompaniments of a monastery. The Dematamal Viharaya is known in history to have been the monastery where Prince Saddhatissa, Prince Dutugemunu's younger brother hid himself from been apprehended by Prince Dutugemunu and where Prince Dutugemunu mustered 500 monks to accompany his army north to Anuradhapura. This act of reconciliation between the brothers, facilitated by the monks of Dematamal Viharaya, laid the foundation for Dutugemunu's successful campaign to reunite the island and revive Buddhism.

YUDAGANAWA

The Stupa in Yudaganava depicts abundantly the excellence of the Sri Lankan Buddhist architectural capability. Yudaganawa Stupa is the biggest stupa found in the Badulla District. In the Stupa terrace is an Image House with paintings and images depicting the Kandyan period. Culanganaya where Prince Dutugemunu and Prince Saddhatissa waged a war for the crown is believed to be in the vicinity of the Yudaganawa Stupa.

BUDURUWAGALA

The site is reached at a distance of 4.5 Km along a by road from the Buduruwagala junction on the Wellawaya Tanamalwila highway. The remnants of the rock carvings visible at the site reveal the image of the Buddha in the standing posture in full relief and seven standing Buddha images of much lesser size engraved from a vertical rock face in semi relief form. The features of the images are enhanced by the application of stucco, finally impregnating their surfaces with different hues pigments. In addition to these rock carvings believed to belong to the 7-8c A.C. a large number of ruins are seen scattered around the site.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: Appropriate (non revealing) attire is required for visiting the temples.

About Hambantota

Hambantota is a coastal city in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and the famous Hambantota Cricket Stadium. The city is also home to the Mirijjawila Botanical Garden and the Bundala National Park, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure for travelers.

Top Attractions

Mirijjawila Botanical Garden

A beautiful botanical garden with a variety of local and exotic plants, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate (around 500 LKR)

Bundala National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Nature Half-day or full-day Moderate (around 1000-1500 LKR for a safari)

Hambantota Cricket Stadium

A state-of-the-art cricket stadium that has hosted international matches and is a must-visit for cricket fans.

Sports 2-3 hours for a tour Moderate (around 500-1000 LKR for a tour)

Ruhunu National Park

A national park known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species.

Nature Half-day or full-day Moderate (around 1000-1500 LKR for a safari)

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.

Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg or coconut sambal.

Breakfast Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti, vegetables, and meat, stir-fried with spices.

Lunch Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Wildlife safaris Snorkeling Hiking Beach relaxation Spa treatments Botanical garden visits Temple visits Local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the best time to visit Hambantota as the weather is dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits.

25-32°C 77-90°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

Hambantota is generally safe for travelers, but it is essential to take standard precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable tour operators and guides.

Getting there

By air

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 25 km from Hambantota

By bus

Hambantota Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are the most common form of public transport in Hambantota. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hambantota City Center Mirijjawila Bundala

Day trips

Tangalle

50 km • Half-day or full-day

A beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.

Yala National Park

60 km • Full-day

One of the most famous national parks in Sri Lanka, known for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species.

Festivals

Esala Perahera • July-August

Pro tips

Visit the Mirijjawila Botanical Garden early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Book a guided safari at Bundala National Park for the best wildlife spotting experience.
Try local street food for an authentic and budget-friendly dining experience.
Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala to enhance your interaction with locals.
Carry small denominations of cash for local shopping and transportation.