From Kandy Sigiriya Fortress and Dambulla Temple Private Day Tour
Active
10h - 12h
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
Experience Sri Lanka’s iconic ‘Cultural Triangle’ in one unforgettable day: two UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Dambulla Cave Temple) plus a peak-time elephant safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park. This Kandy-based tour is guided by local experts, offering flexible timings, insider photo stops, and personalized service. The itinerary is optimized to guarantee the best elephant viewing, adjusting the safari location based on herd movement. Travel in comfort with air-conditioned private transport. Small group/private format delivers a crowd-free, tailored experience for each guest. This is the ultimate way to discover heritage, wildlife, and culture in a single seamless journey from Kandy.
Available options
From Kandy Sigiriya Fortress and Dambulla Temple Private Day Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private air-conditioned transportation (car/van) with English-speaking driver
Bottled water
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Kandy city
All fuel, tolls, and parking fees included
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Explore the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five magnificent caves filled with centuries-old Buddhist murals and over 150 statues of Buddha. Marvel at the intricate ceiling paintings and learn about the rich history of this sacred site dating back to the 1st century BC.
2
Stop 2
Climb the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, a spectacular 5th-century rock fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site. Ascend 1,200 steps to reach the summit while admiring the famous frescoes of the 'Sigiriya Maidens' and exploring the ancient palace ruins at the top. Before the climb, stroll through the beautifully landscaped water gardens with their sophisticated hydraulic systems, symmetrical pools, and fountains that showcase ancient Sinhalese engineering mastery.
3
Enjoy a thrilling afternoon safari (2 hours 45 minutes) to witness Sri Lanka’s famous elephant gathering. Depending on the season and where the elephant herds are located, this safari may take place at either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park—whichever offers the best elephant and wildlife viewing that day. This is one of Asia’s most spectacular wildlife experiences, with opportunities to see hundreds of elephants and a variety of other animals in their natural habitat. Entry fee applies.
What's not included
Sigiriya $35/adult
Dambulla Cave Temple: $7 USD per person (2,000 LKR)
National Park fees
Lunch and all meals (typically $8-15 per person for local restaurants)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for travelers with heart conditions or serious medical problems
Not recommended for those with impaired mobility (significant walking, stairs, and climbing involved)
Not suitable for infants (under 2 years) due to uneven terrain and safety on safari
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
