Sigiriya Dambulla Caves and Minneriya Safari Day Trip from Kandy

Kandy , Sri Lanka

Sigiriya Dambulla Caves and Minneriya Safari Day Trip from Kandy

Active

12h - 13h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Overview
Discover Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders on this full-day private tour from Kandy. Visit sacred temples, explore ancient caves, climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, stroll through a fragrant spice garden, and end your adventure with an exciting wildlife safari at Minneriya National Park.

This all-in-one journey offers history, culture, nature, and wildlife—perfect for travelers looking to experience the best of Sri Lanka in a single day.

Highlights
• on route see the colourful Matale Hindu Temple, known for its vibrant Dravidian architecture.
• Explore Ranweli Spice Garden, where you’ll learn about Sri Lanka’s world-famous spices and ayurvedic traditions.
• Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, with its ancient Buddhist murals and statues.
• Climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and enjoy panoramic views.
• Experience a thrilling Minneriya National Park Safari, home to herds of wild elephants and other exotic

Available options

By Tuk tuk

Tuk tuk: Enjoy a unique sightseeing experience aboard a traditional Tuk Tuk. Travel through scenic roads, local villages.<br/>Pickup included

Sigiriya Dambulla Caves and Minneriya Safari Day Trip from Kandy

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (Kandy city limits)

Group tour with private, air-conditioned vehicle for your comfort

Bottled water

English-speaking chauffeur/guide

Detailed itinerary

*Muthumariamman Temple, Matale* is a colorful and sacred Hindu temple in central Sri Lanka, dedicated to the goddess *Mariamman*, who is believed to protect against diseases and bring rain.

*Highlights for visitors:*
- Admire the *towering gopuram (entrance tower)* with hundreds of detailed sculptures
- Observe vibrant *Hindu rituals and traditions*
- Explore the richly decorated *interior halls and shrines*
- Visit during festivals for a lively cultural experience

It’s a beautiful place to witness *Tamil Hindu culture and devotion* in Sri Lanka.

Stop 2

*Dambulla Cave Temple*, also known as the *Golden Temple of Dambulla*, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest, best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Visitors can:

- Explore *five ancient caves* filled with over *150 Buddha statues*
- See stunning *murals and frescoes* on cave ceilings and walls
- Visit the *golden Buddha statue* at the temple entrance
- Enjoy panoramic views from the *rock summit*
- Learn about the temple’s *2,000-year history*

A peaceful and spiritual site, rich in art, culture, and heritage.

Visit the Ranweli Spice Garden in Matale and join a short guided walk to learn how Sri Lankan spices and Ayurvedic herbs are grown. Taste spice-based drinks and enjoy an optional herbal head massage, with time to browse the traditional products in the garden shop.

Stop 4

Sigiriya (Lion Rock) is an ancient rock fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. Visitors can:

- Climb the iconic rock for stunning 360° views
- See ancient *frescoes* painted on the rock walls
- Walk through beautifully designed *water gardens*
- Explore the *Lion’s Paw entrance*
- Discover the ruins of a 5th-century *royal palace* at the summit
- View the famous *Mirror Wall*

It's a must-visit site combining history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Explore the famous Minneriya National Park, best known for its large herds of wild elephants gathering around the ancient Minneriya tank. Your safari jeep driver will take you deep into the park where you can observe elephants, deer, buffalo, crocodiles and a wide variety of birds in their natural habitat.
Depending on the wildlife movement and park conditions, the safari may also be conducted in either Kaudulla National Park or Hurulu Eco Park, which offer very similar experiences and elephant sightings during certain seasons.

What's not included

Lunch & personal expenses

Dambulla Cave Temple

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Minneriya National Park Safari With jeep

Available languages

Guide guide

EN TA

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

As per the request

Important notes

Present your Viator booking confirmation (voucher) to the guide or driver at the meeting point. Entrance tickets are not included and must be purchased at the attraction before entry.

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.