Sigiriya and Dambulla from Kandy

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. Nestled in the lush hills of central Sri Lanka, Kandy captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a revered Buddhist site, Kandy exudes an aura of spirituality and tranquility. The city's picturesque landscapes, including the serene Kandy Lake and the sprawling Royal Botanical Gardens, offer a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling streets. With its vibrant markets, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality, Kandy is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Sri Lankan experience.

   Passes by

2. Sigiriya Rock Fortress that dominates the Sigiriya area was the capital of the King Kasyapa who ruled in the 5th century AD. The rock was once shaped into the shape of a lion, hence gaining its name. Now only the giant paws remain at the entrance to the climb up the rock. You can get to see the gardens and advanced irrigation systems that Kasyapa had built in his fortress. To this day the ponds remain full of water (though it is no longer as clean), and the remains of the walls and moats of his fortress can be seen. However the most marvelous aspect of Sigiriya, that brought it international fame, is the unfading rock paintings that continue to confuse many experts. Despite being over a millennia old the colors and shapes remain clear and bright as if they were newly painted. Once you return to the base from your climb up the rock, you can also visit the Sigiriya Museum which has some excellent pieces.

   2 h

3. The Dambulla Cave Temple, nestled in the central part of Sri Lanka, is a sacred site renowned for its ancient rock cave complex and religious significance. Carved into a massive granite outcrop, the temple complex comprises five caves adorned with intricate murals and over 150 stunning statues of Buddha, dating back to as early as the 1st century BCE. Each cave holds its unique charm, with elaborate frescoes depicting scenes from Buddha's life and various deities from both Buddhist and Hindu traditions. The temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and religious devotion, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike from across the globe. Its serene ambiance, coupled with the spiritual aura, makes it a captivating destination for those seeking solace, enlightenment, and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's ancient past.

   1.5 h

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 3 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Kandy

• Its from-price is 62% above the median of the 276 day trips we list in Kandy.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 96 of 276.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Kandy

Kandy is the hill-country city of Sri Lanka, home to the Temple of the Tooth, a tree-fringed lake and a botanical garden among tea-covered hills.

Kandy was the last capital of the Sinhalese kings until the British took it in 1815. It stands around an artificial lake, about 500 metres above sea level, in the Central Highlands. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO site, holds a relic said to be a tooth of the Buddha, and pilgrims bring lotus flowers each day. Drummers and dancers perform at the shrine's rituals.

Top-ranked sights in Kandy: Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Alagalla Mountain Range.

See all 767 experiences in Kandy