Day tour to Pidurangala Rock & Dambulla from Kandy
Active
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Kandy early in the morning (around 8:00 AM or earlier) to begin your cultural and scenic day tour. The first stop is a short visit to the Muthumariyamman Hindu Temple in Matale, known for its colorful Dravidian architecture and spiritual atmosphere. After that, proceed to Dambulla, about an hour’s drive, to explore the famous Dambulla Cave Temple and Golden Temple—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This cave complex is adorned with stunning murals and over 150 Buddha statues, some dating back to the 2nd century BC. You’ll spend about 1 to 1.5 hours here. After the visit, enjoy lunch at a recommended local restaurant. In the evening, head to Pidurangala Rock for a rewarding hike. The climb takes around 30–45 minutes and offers a breathtaking panoramic view, especially at sunset, with a perfect view of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. A truly memorable experience awaits.
Available options
By Car/Van/buss
Day Tour to Piduragal/Dambulla: A massive rock formation almost directly opposite Sigiriya, Pidurangala has an equally majestic view as the former of rolling lake-and-land vistas.<br/>Pickup included
By tuk tuk
Tuk tuk: Open-air three-wheeler, perfect for exploring cities and villages. Seating for 2–3 passengers. Local driver/guide included.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Round-trip private transfer
Driver/guide
Transport by private vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
Detailed itinerary
1
The Muthumariyamman Temple in Matale is one of the most vibrant and sacred Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, revered as the goddess of rain and fertility.
Located in the heart of Matale, this temple is known for its stunning Dravidian-style architecture, richly decorated gopuram (tower), and colorful statues of Hindu deities. The intricate carvings and vivid colors make it a visual masterpiece and a spiritual landmark for both devotees and visitors.
This temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the island’s religious harmony and cultural diversity. A visit here offers a peaceful and culturally
2
Stop 2
Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a series of five caves adorned with over 150 stunning Buddha statues and intricate murals that date back more than 2,000 years.
As you explore the peaceful interiors, you’ll witness the rich spiritual and artistic heritage of Sri Lanka. The cave ceilings are covered in vibrant frescoes depicting the life of the Buddha, making it a truly awe-inspiring experience for history and culture lovers.
Visitors typically spend 1 to 1.5 hours here, allowing time to fully appreciate the serenity, craftsmanship, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the temple’s elevated location.
3
Day Tour Itinerary – Cultural & Scenic Highlights
Enjoy a safe, budget-friendly, and enriching cultural day tour with an experienced driver and a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Your journey includes:
Matale Hindu Temple
• First stop on the way
• Beautiful and vibrant temple rich in Dravidian architecture
• Approx. 45 minutes from starting point
Dambulla Cave Temple
• The largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka
• Marvel at ancient murals and Buddha statues
• Spend about 1 to 1.5 hours exploring
Pidurangala Rock
• A massive rock formation located near Sigiriya
• Hike to the summit for panoramic views and a breathtaking sight of Sigiriya Rock itself
• Ideal for travelers seeking natural beauty and a rewarding climb at low cost
What's not included
Food and drinks
Lunch
Entrance tickets
Available languages
Guide guide
NO
SV
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
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0
3★
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2★
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1★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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
Dress code when you entered to the all temple, the nee and shoulder should be covered
Important notes
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• Total Tour duration until back to your hotel minimum 8 hours
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
Instant confirmation
