Kandy to Sigiriya and Dambulla Safari Day Tour
Active
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
Explore, Discover & Experience Sri Lanka’s Best in One Day!
✔ Dambulla Cave Temple – Marvel at ancient murals and Buddha statues.
✔ Sigiriya Lion Rock – Climb the iconic fortress for breathtaking views.
✔ Matale Spice Garden – Learn about Sri Lanka’s famous spices and Ayurveda.
✔ Jeep Safari – Spot elephants, deer, and exotic wildlife in their natural habitat.
Comfortable transport, expert guides, and an action-packed itinerary! Book now for an unforgettable adventure!
Available options
Kandy to Sigiriya and Dambulla Safari Day Tour
Duration: 8 hours<br/>Car <br/>Pickup included
Sigiriya & Dambulla Group Tour
Duration: 8 hours<br/>KDH Van<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Travelers will explore the lush Matale Herbal and Spice Garden, discovering Sri Lanka’s renowned spices and medicinal plants. A guided tour will showcase the uses of cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, and more, with opportunities to see traditional spice processing methods. Visitors can also enjoy a refreshing herbal tea and learn about Ayurveda’s natural healing benefits.
2
Stop 2
Travelers will visit the iconic Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring ancient rock-cut caves adorned with stunning Buddhist murals and over 150 statues. They will explore the temple’s sacred atmosphere, admire the massive golden Buddha, and enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop.
3
Travelers will climb the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at its ancient frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and the massive lion paws at the entrance. At the summit, they will explore the ruins of a 5th-century fortress and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and villages.
4
Travelers will embark on an exciting Jeep safari through the wilderness of Sigiriya, exploring lush landscapes and spotting diverse wildlife such as elephants, deer, crocodiles, and exotic birds. Guided by expert trackers, they will experience the thrill of Sri Lanka’s rich natural beauty and untamed wildlife up close.
What's not included
Lunch
Breakfast
We are not providing admission fees
Entry/Admission - Dambulla Cave Temple / Sigiriya Rock
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting Point: Kandy City Centre, Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka.
Arrival: Arrive 10 min early.
Look for: Our guide near the main entrance, by the info desk, wearing a bright uniform and holding a tour sign.
See you soon!
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
