2 Day Tour From Kandy , Kandy City Explore / Sigiriya

Set out on a delightful culinary and cultural odyssey through the historic city of Kandy and the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress. This two-day tour immerses you in the essence of Sri Lankan heritage, from the serene temples to the vibrant spice markets. Indulge in the aromatic flavors of Ceylon tea, savor the rich tapestry of local cuisine, and uncover the captivating stories that lie within the UNESCO-listed wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seek an enriching adventure, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the country’s captivating blend of tradition and modernity.

Good To Know

• This 2-day tour from Kandy allows you to explore UNESCO heritage sites, including Kandy’s cultural heart and the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock.
• The tour is priced starting at K765 per person and includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, guided visits, and all-inclusive package with entrance fees and more.
• The first day focuses on Kandy’s cultural and spiritual heritage, including visits to Nelligala Temple, tea factory, Botanical Gardens, and Tooth Relic Temple.
• The second day takes you to Matale Hindu Temple, Dambulla Cave Temple, and the challenging climb up Sigiriya Lion Rock for panoramic views.
• The tour caters to various cultural considerations, such as dress code, shoe and hat removal, and additional charges for pickup outside Kandy city limits.

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 2-day tour from Kandy explores the UNESCO Heritage City of Kandy and the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock. Priced from just K765 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.

Visitors will enjoy a comprehensive experience, with hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and guided visits to Nelligala Temple, a tea factory, Botanical Gardens, and more.

The second day takes them to Dambulla Cave Temple and the Sigiriya rock fortress. This all-inclusive package includes entrance fees, bottled water, and an English-speaking driver.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moderate walking, including 1250 stairs at Sigiriya.

Itinerary Details

The tour kicks off with a morning pickup at 8:30 AM from your Kandy hotel, commencing an 8-hour adventure through the cultural heart of the city.

Explore the serene Nelligala Buddhist Temple, learn about Ceylon tea production at a local factory, and stroll through the lush Royal Botanical Gardens.

Get a hands-on experience at a wood carving workshop, visit the iconic White Big Buddha Statue, and climb the Asgiriya Stupa for panoramic city views.

Culminate the day with a captivating Kandyan cultural show and a pilgrimage to the sacred Tooth Relic Temple before returning to your hotel.

• Nelligala Buddhist Temple
• Ceylon Tea Factory
• Royal Botanical Gardens
• Wood Carving Workshop

Day 1 Highlights

Kicking off the 2-day tour, guests are treated to a captivating exploration of Kandy’s cultural heart.

They’ll visit the serene Nelligala Buddhist Temple, enjoy the aromatic world of a Ceylon tea factory, and stroll through the lush verdure of the Royal Botanical Gardens.

At a local wood carving workshop, they’ll witness the skilled craftspeople bring intricate designs to life.

The towering White Big Buddha Statue and the historic Asgiriya Stupa offer glimpses into the region’s spiritual heritage.

Exploring Kandy Lake and the Gems Museum, guests gain insights into the city’s natural wonders and gemstone legacy.

The day culminates with a spellbinding cultural show and a visit to the revered Tooth Relic Temple.

Day 2 Highlights

Guests embark on a captivating journey on the second day, exploring the cultural and natural wonders that lie beyond Kandy.

The day begins with a visit to the Matale Hindu Temple, where they enjoy the vibrant rituals and colorful architecture.

Next, they venture to the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing intricate frescoes and colossal Buddha statues.

The highlight of the day is scaling the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

The excursion concludes with a stop at a Spice & Herbs Garden, allowing guests to indulge their senses with the captivating aromas and flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Included in the Tour

This 2-day tour from Kandy to Sigiriya provides a comprehensive inclusions package to ensure a seamless and enriching experience. Guests will enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned minivan or tuk-tuk, and a refreshing bottle of water throughout the journey. The tour also includes all entrance fees and the expertise of an English-speaking driver to guide them. To further enhance the culture, the package covers a Kandyan cultural dance performance and the captivating ceremony at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Inclusions	Description
Transportation	Air-conditioned vehicle
Guides	English-speaking driver
Experiences	Cultural performances, temple visits

Important Information

Those considering this tour should be aware of a few important details.

This tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, including pregnant women, wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, and those over 70 years old.

Participants should pack the following essentials:

1. Passport or ID
2. Sunglasses and sun hat
3. Long-sleeved shirt and long pants
4. Comfortable walking shoes

Plus, pets, luggage, or large bags aren’t allowed.

Visitors to Buddhist and Hindu temples must remove their shoes and hats, and cover their shoulders and knees.

Pickup is only available within Kandy city limits, with additional charges for locations outside the city.

Cultural Considerations

Breakfast is recommended before embarking on this immersive cultural adventure. The Kandyan Culture Dance, starting at 5:00 PM, offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s vibrant traditions. Later, visitors can witness the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic Ceremony at 6:30 PM, a sacred ritual honoring the revered relic.

When visiting Buddhist and Hindu temples, certain etiquette must be observed. Guests are required to remove their shoes and hats, and ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. The tour’s pickup service is available within Kandy city limits, with additional charges for locations outside the city.

Cultural Considerations	Requirements	Timing
Kandyan Culture Dance	–	5:00 PM
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic Ceremony	–	6:30 PM
Buddhist and Hindu Temples	Remove shoes and hats, cover shoulders and knees	–
Pickup Service	Additional charges for locations outside Kandy city limits	–

Pickup and Locations

The tour’s pickup service is available within the limits of Kandy city, ensuring a convenient start to the day’s adventures.

Travelers can be picked up directly from their hotel or a pre-arranged meeting point, allowing for a seamless transition into the day’s itinerary. For those outside the city center, additional charges may apply, but the experience remains accessible to all.

The tour’s flexibility is further highlighted by these key details:

1. Pickup time in Kandy is 8:30 AM on Day 1 and 7:45 AM on Day 2.
2. Dropoff is at the traveler’s hotel in Kandy at the end of each day.
3. The air-conditioned transportation is either a mini-van or tuk-tuk, subject to availability.
4. Pickup is only available within Kandy city limits, with charges for locations outside the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vegetarian Food Available During the Tour?

While vegetarian meals aren’t explicitly included, the tour operator’s knowledgeable staff can likely accommodate dietary preferences with advance notice. Guests can savor the local flavors while exploring Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage on this immersive tour.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and water on the tour. The tour allows for personal provisions to supplement the included bottle of water, providing flexibility to fuel up throughout the day’s activities as desired.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary, activity duration, and add or remove stops along the way for a personalized experience.

Do I Need to Book the Optional Activities in Advance?

Booking optional activities like the Minneriya National Park Safari or Sigiriya Village Safari in advance is recommended to secure your spot and ensure a seamless experience. The tour operator can assist in making these arrangements prior to your trip.

Are Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour operator does offer discounted group rates, but the specific discount percentages are not publicly listed. Travelers are encouraged to inquire about group pricing when booking to receive the best value for their party size.

The Sum Up

This captivating 2-day tour from Kandy immerses travelers in Sri Lanka’s vibrant cultural tapestry. From the serene Nelligala Temple to the majestic Sigiriya Lion Rock, each experience offers a delightful sensory journey. Indulge in the rich flavors of Ceylon tea, savor the vibrant hues of the Matale Hindu Temple, and bask in the grandeur of UNESCO Heritage sites. This all-inclusive package promises an unforgettable exploration of Sri Lanka’s enchanting wonders.