Kandy To Dambulla and Sigiria City Full Day by Laka Tours

Kandy , Sri Lanka

Kandy To Dambulla and Sigiria City Full Day by Laka Tours

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(3 reviews)

4h - 8h

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

Situated in the southeastern part of Asia, Kandy is one of the most beautiful cities in Sri Lanka and rich in Natural Heritage. It is renowned for its temples and festivals that attract tourists across the globe. You can walk along the immaculate lake bordered by lush trees which makes it more Kandy beautiful and refreshing. You can take a private customizable tour of the city and its many secrets that are famous among locals but not so much the average traveler. Ceylonese passionate driver-guide makes the tour very interesting by narrating the rich cultural history of his city. Among the scenic spots of the city, the famed Temple of the Tooth, the invite Botanical Gardens, and the world renowned Temple of the Tooth are some of the highlights.

Available options

Kandy To Dambulla and Sigiria City Full Day by Laka Tours

Pickup included

What's included

English & Hindi speaking Driver

Fuel surcharge

Tuk Tuk Transport

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

At the Temple of the Sacred Tooth with its golden roof is located a tooth of the Buddha which is most sacred relic of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The room where the tooth is housed is opened during puja (offerings or prayers) to devotees and tourists, although the actual viewing of the tooth is prohibited. The tooth is stored in a gold casket resembling a dagoba (stupa) shaped casket with six dagoba caskets of smaller sizes nested within. Along with the main temple which is highly revered, the complex contains smaller temples, shrines, and also a set of museums.

Kandy Lake is without question the epicenter of the town. Although Kandy is plagued by screeching diesel buses which cruise around the southern tip of the lake, these buses do not stop the leisurely strolls around the lakeside seats. The area near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the most pleasant area to walk around.

Often written as Udawatta Kele, Udawattakele Forest Reserve is an old forested hill ridge situated in Kandy City; it spans 104 hectares (257 acres) in size. During the time of the Kandyan kingdom, Udawattakele was referred too in Sinhalese as “Uda Wasala Watta” which translates to “the garden above the royal palace.” The sanctuary is well known for its ornithological diversity. The reserve is also rich in plant biodiversity, especially with the lianas, shrubs, and small trees. There are a number of colossal lianas. A variety of medium and small mammals that are common to Sri Lanka may be observed here. Some species of snakes and other kinds of reptiles can also be seen. Udawattakele was set aside as a forest reserve in 1856 and became a sanctuary in 1938.

Located close to Kandy city, on a hill lies the magnificent statue of Buddha which was constructed in 1972. It is two kilometers away from the Temple of The Tooth Relic nestled next to the Sri Maha Bodhi Temple at the top of Bahirawa Kanda hill. The white sculpture displays Buddha sitting in the Niddhi posture and can be seen from nearly every part of Kandy city. This statue which is 88 feet tall is among the tallest statues of Buddha in Sri Lanka.

Currently accessible to both locals and tourists, these magnificent gardens were once restricted to the Kandyan royal family. These gardens now hold the title as the largest botanical gardens found in Sri Lanka, thriving over 60 hectares. Among its many attractions is a splendiferous collection of orchids, an impressive avenue of royal palms, the peculiar and aptly named cannonball fruit tree, the astounding 40 meter tall Burma bamboo, and many other incredible plants. Another stunning attraction in Peradeniya is the colossal giant Javan fig tree, found on the great lawn, known for its overwhelming thick central trunk and umbrella shaped branch canopy. Peradeniya is located to the west of Kandy, about 6 kilometers from the city center.

Available languages

Audio guide

HI EN

Guide guide

HI EN

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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.