Kandy to Sigiriya Fortress and Dambulla Day Tour
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Kandy to Sigiriya Fortress and Dambulla Day Tour

Active
6h - 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

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.

Available options

Pick up From AC Mini Car

Suzuki Wagon R<br/>Pickup included

Pick up From Tuk Tuk

Tuk Tuk<br/>Pickup included

Pick Up From Sedan Car

Toyota Prius<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Transport by air-conditioned vehicle (Car/Van/) & Tuk Tuk
English-speaking chauffer
Hotel Pickup and drop-off
Water Bottle
Customization Tour

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

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.

2
Stop 2

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.

3

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.
Wikipedia
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Minneriya Safari Tours
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expedia
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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.

4

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.

5

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

What's not included

Entry Fees

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 10-75
1
Childs
Age 1-9
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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