Set out on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient wonders with the Anuradhapura & Aukana Private Tour from Kandy. This immersive experience unveils the rich cultural heritage of the island nation, transporting visitors back in time to explore UNESCO-listed sites and the awe-inspiring Aukana Buddha statue. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you wander through the remnants of Anuradhapura, once the thriving capital. Along the way, savor a traditional local lunch and bask in the scenic splendor of Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll uncover the spiritual traditions that have shaped this captivating destination. Prepare to be captivated by the wonders that await.
Good To Know
- Explore the UNESCO-listed sites of Anuradhapura and the Aukana Buddha statue on a private tour from Kandy, Sri Lanka.
- Tour includes a scenic drive through Sri Lanka’s countryside, a four-hour exploration of Anuradhapura’s ancient ruins, and a visit to the impressive Aukana Buddha statue.
- Experience highlights include a local Sri Lankan lunch, complimentary bottled water and WiFi, and an immersive experience showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.
- Anuradhapura sightseeing covers the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, Abhayagiri Monastery, and Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, providing a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s history.
- The tour concludes with a sunset view of the Aukana Buddha statue, carved into a granite rock face, leaving a lasting impression.
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Tour Overview
This private tour from Kandy offers visitors an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s ancient wonders. Priced from $198.20 per person, the one-day excursion takes travelers on a journey through the UNESCO-listed sites of Anuradhapura and the awe-inspiring Aukana Buddha statue.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides unparalleled flexibility and convenience.
Whether you’re marveling at the towering Jetavanaramaya Stupa, delving into the rich history of the Abhayagiri Monastery, or contemplating the serene beauty of the Aukana Buddha, this immersive experience promises to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on it.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with pickup from Kandy, where visitors embark on a scenic drive through the rolling hills and lush greenery of Sri Lanka’s countryside.
The first stop is Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient ruins and sacred sites. Over 4 hours, guests explore the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, Abhayagiri Monastery, and the towering Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba.
Next, the tour moves to Aukana, home to an impressive standing Buddha statue carved into a granite rock face. After 2 hours of sightseeing, the tour returns to Kandy, with a sunset view of the Aukana Buddha for quiet contemplation.
Experience Highlights
Visitors can look forward to a scenic drive through rolling hills and lush greenery as they make their way to the ancient sites on this tour.
Explore the magnificent Jetavanaramaya Stupa, Abhayagiri Monastery, and Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba in Anuradhapura, marveling at the architectural wonders and spiritual significance of these sacred sites.
The highlight of the tour is the awe-inspiring Aukana Buddha statue, carved directly into the granite rock face. As the sun sets, take in the serene beauty of this colossal figure, and enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local delicacies like rice and curry, crispy hoppers, and aromatic spices.
This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.
Tour Inclusions
Bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle, and complimentary WiFi on board ensure a comfortable journey as travelers embark on this private tour from Kandy.
A delectable local lunch featuring rice and curry, crispy hoppers, and aromatic spices awaits, providing a delightful culinary experience.
Entrance tickets to the ancient Aukana Rajamaha Viharaya and the UNESCO-listed Anuradhapura Ancient City are included, granting visitors uninterrupted access to explore these remarkable historical sites.
With a private transportation service and a live English-speaking guide, this comprehensive tour offers a seamless and enriching exploration of Sri Lanka’s captivating cultural heritage.
Anuradhapura Sightseeing
During the Anuradhapura sightseeing portion of the tour, visitors explore the captivating history of this ancient Sri Lankan capital. They explore the towering Jetavanaramaya Stupa, a testament to the region’s Buddhist heritage. Next, they wander through the Abhayagiri Monastery, once home to thousands of monks. The tour culminates at the Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, an immense stupa that radiates an aura of reverence. Through these ancient sites, guests gain a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural tapestry.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Jetavanaramaya Stupa | Towering Buddhist monument |
| Abhayagiri Monastery | Former home of thousands of monks |
| Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba | Immense, revered stupa |
Aukana Sightseeing
After the captivating exploration of Anuradhapura’s ancient wonders, the tour transports visitors to the serene Aukana.
Here, the highlight is the awe-inspiring standing Buddha statue carved into the granite rock face. Towering at 39 feet, the statue’s intricate details and perfect proportions are a testament to the skill of ancient Sinhalese artisans.
As the group approaches, the sheer scale of the monument is breathtaking. Visitors can spend time quietly contemplating the statue’s serene gaze, taking in the setting sun that casts a warm glow over the surroundings.
This tranquil experience offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling ruins of Anuradhapura, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness the majesty of the Aukana Buddha.
Scenic Drive
As the group departs the serene Aukana Buddha, the tour vehicle winds its way through a landscape of lush, rolling hills and verdant greenery. The scenic drive offers a captivating glimpse into the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s countryside.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Terrain | Undulating hills, winding roads |
| Vegetation | Verdant forests, lush tea plantations |
| Vistas | Breathtaking panoramic views |
| Tranquility | Peaceful, serene atmosphere |
The journey is a sensory delight, with the sights, sounds, and scents of the countryside creating a calming and rejuvenating experience. Passengers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the serene natural surroundings as the tour progresses towards the ancient city of Anuradhapura.
Important Information
For this private tour from Kandy, there are a few important guidelines travelers should keep in mind.
The tour has a dress code – no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts are allowed. Plus, certain items are prohibited, such as alcohol, drugs, and indoor shoes.
Lastly, visitors aren’t permitted to touch any of the ancient exhibits or ruins.
- Appropriate dress is required: no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts
- Prohibited items include alcohol, drugs, and indoor shoes
- Touching the ancient exhibits and ruins isn’t allowed
The tour ensures a smooth and respectful experience at these sacred sites.
Adhering to these guidelines will allow travelers to fully enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Anuradhapura and Aukana.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Multiple Days?
There’s no option to extend this private tour to multiple days. It’s a 1-day excursion from Kandy to explore Anuradhapura and Aukana’s ancient ruins and sites. Visitors can customize the itinerary, though, based on their interests and schedules.
Can the Tour Start From a Different Location Besides Kandy?
The tour can start from a different location besides Kandy. Customers have the flexibility to arrange a pickup from their preferred starting point, allowing them to customize the experience to their needs and convenience.
Are There Any Additional Fees for Group Sizes Over 4 People?
The tour operator doesn’t charge any additional fees for larger group sizes. Groups of any size can enjoy the private tour experience with the same inclusions and pricing. It’s a great option for families and friends.
Do We Need to Bring Our Own Water and Snacks for the Tour?
The tour includes bottled water for guests, so there’s no need to bring your own. You’ll also enjoy a delicious local lunch as part of the experience, so you can sit back, relax, and soak up the ancient sights.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus More on Specific Sites?
The tour can be customized to focus more on specific sites, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their interests. The tour operator is flexible and eager to accommodate personalized requests.
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The Sum Up
Enjoy Sri Lanka’s captivating past on this private tour from Kandy. Explore the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, marvel at the colossal Aukana Buddha, and savor a traditional local lunch. With a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, you’ll discover the country’s rich cultural heritage in an unforgettable way. Don’t miss this chance to experience the spiritual essence of Sri Lanka.