Begin your journey from Kandy with an early hotel pickup. First, visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 5th-century marvel featuring lion-paw entrances, ancient frescoes, and royal ruins atop the rock. Next, explore the vibrant Sri Muthumariamman Temple in Matale, known for its colorful Dravidian architecture.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or take an optional village tour for an authentic cultural experience. Then, head to Minneriya National Park for an exciting jeep safari, where you may witness the spectacular gathering of wild elephants.
Continue to the historic Dambulla Cave Temple, home to centuries-old murals and over 150 Buddha statues. On your return to Kandy, stop at the Sirilak Spice and Herbal Garden to discover Sri Lanka’s famous herbs and spices.
Suzuki Wagon R<br/>Pickup included
Tuk Tuk<br/>Pickup included
Toyota Prius<br/>Pickup included
Sigiriya Rock Fortress, located in central Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country's most iconic landmarks. Also known as the "Lion Rock," it is a massive rock column that rises nearly 200 meters above the surrounding jungle. In the 5th century AD, King Kasyapa built a palace complex atop the rock, complete with gardens, frescoes, and a mirror wall. Today, visitors can climb to the summit to explore the ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views. Sigiriya is renowned for its historical significance, architectural ingenuity, and stunning natural beauty.
The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, also known as the Dambulla Cave Temple or Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in central Sri Lanka. It is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in the country. The site consists of five main caves, which house over 150 stunning statues and murals of the Buddha, along with depictions of Sri Lankan kings and Hindu deities. The temple dates back to the 1st century BCE and has been a sacred pilgrimage site for centuries. Its elevated location also offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Minneriya National Park, located in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, is renowned for hosting the world's largest gathering of Asian elephants. During the dry season, particularly from August to September, up to 350 elephants congregate near the Minneriya Tank, with some reports noting numbers as high as 700.
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Minneriya Safari Tours
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Beyond elephants, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including Sri Lankan leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, and endemic primates like the purple-faced langur and toque macaque. Bird enthusiasts can spot species such as the Sri Lanka junglefowl, painted stork, and spot-billed pelican.
Sri Muthumariamman Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Muthumariamman, a form of the divine mother Mariamman, who is widely worshipped in South India. The temple is known for its vibrant architecture, colorful gopuram (tower), and spiritual atmosphere. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and protection from diseases. Festivals like Panguni Uthiram and Navaratri are celebrated with great devotion and elaborate rituals.
Sirilak Spice and Herbal Botanical Garden is a serene retreat located in Kawudupelella, Matale, Sri Lanka. This botanical garden showcases a diverse array of exotic spices, herbs, and medicinal plants native to the region. Visitors can embark on informative guided tours that delve into the cultivation and traditional uses of these plants, offering insights into Sri Lanka's rich heritage of herbal medicine and sustainable agriculture. The garden's tranquil ambiance, complemented by complimentary herbal teas and massages using local natural oils, provides a rejuvenating experience. While the on-site shop offers a variety of herbal products, visitors are advised to compare prices before making purchases. Overall, Sirilak Spice and Herbal Botanical Garden offers an educational and relaxing experience for those interested in nature and traditional wellness practices
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.
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.
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.
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.
A forest reserve adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth, offering a peaceful retreat with walking trails, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities.
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.
A popular street food made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.
A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center.
A traditional dish made from rice flour and coconut milk, steamed to form a bowl-like shape, often served with coconut sambal.
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.
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
GMT+5:30
230VV, 50HzHz
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.
Kandy Railway Station
Central Bus Station
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Kandy. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable for long journeys.
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Car, Bike, Scooter
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.
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.
Home to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five beautifully decorated caves with numerous Buddha statues and murals.
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