The ancient capital of Kandy serves up some of Sri Lanka’s most authentic lunch experiences. Local restaurants dish out traditional rice and curry sets that burst with flavor and spice. Two standout options make lunch special here: The Dambulla-Sigiriya tour pairs ancient sites with home-cooked meals, while the tuk-tuk city tour combines local performances with regional specialties. I especially love the Temple-Gardens combo tour – you’ll feast at a family-run spot between visiting Kandy’s top attractions. These well-planned excursions offer the perfect taste of Kandyan culture and cuisine. Browse our favorite food tours below to start planning your perfect lunch adventure.
Good To Know
- The Polonnaruwa Day Tour with Lunch by Mahaweli offers a positive review on the quality of the Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch.
- The Day Tour of Kandy by TukTuk includes a free lunch with the tour, providing a cultural dining experience in Kandy.
- The Full-Day Private Tour in Kandy includes a lunch provided at a local restaurant, offering a taste of authentic Kandyan cuisine.
- The Kandy City Tour by Tuk-Tuk features a sampling of local dishes at a restaurant during the tour, giving visitors a culinary introduction to Kandy.
- The Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour includes a traditional Sri Lankan rice, curries, tropical salads, and fruit juice lunch, providing a delectable midday meal.
Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour From Kandy With Lunch
Setting out on a private Dambulla Sigiriya tour from Kandy with lunch is a popular choice among travelers. The tour boasts a 4.8/5 rating from 142 reviews, with 95% of travelers recommending it. Covering the Dambulla caves, Sigiriya rock-top ruins, and an elephant-spotting safari or local village tour, the day trip provides a comprehensive Sri Lankan experience.
Travelers are transported in a comfortable private minivan with a personal driver-guide, who shares insights into the country’s history and culture. The included lunch features traditional Sri Lankan rice, curries, and tropical salads, accompanied by complimentary fruit juice.
While the tour receives praise for its knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Janaka and Gajaba, some travelers note the absence of a guided tour experience, feeling it’s more akin to a chauffeur service.
Plus, concerns have been raised about the long tour duration of over 13 hours and the limited food options.
Priced from $47.20 per person, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and flexible payment options.
Read our full review: Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour From Kandy With Lunch Review
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Day Tour of Kandy by Tuktuk With Free Lunch and Entry
Travelers can explore the vibrant city of Kandy on a comprehensive day tour by TukTuk, featuring a free lunch and entry to top attractions. This 10-hour small-group tour, limited to 6 participants, offers a personalized experience at $110 per person.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within a 5-mile radius, allowing for convenient transportation.
The itinerary highlights include visiting the renowned Temple of Tooth, exploring the Kandy Botanical Garden, and enjoying a traditional lunch with scenic views at Amaya Hills. Participants will also get to see the impressive Bahirawakanda Buddha statue and explore local gem and art industries.
The tour concludes with a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dancers.
The package includes TukTuk transport, the traditional meal with a non-alcoholic drink, all entrance fees, and tea or coffee with cake.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Day Tour of Kandy by Tuktuk With Free Lunch and Entry Review
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Polonnaruwa Day Tour With Lunch by Mahaweli
The Polonnaruwa Day Tour with Lunch by Mahaweli offers travelers a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient capital. Priced from $46 per person, this private tour includes a knowledgeable driver-guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees to the Polonnaruwa Ancient City and Minneriya National Park.
Guests can expect a well-organized experience, with positive reviews praising the tour’s execution and the delicious Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch. However, some travelers have noted a language barrier with the driver, and it’s recommended to bring snacks due to the late lunch timing.
The tour provides convenient accessibility, with infant seats, wheelchair access, and suitability for most travelers. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, allowing for flexibility.
Read our full review: Polonnaruwa Day Tour With Lunch by Mahaweli Review
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Kandy: City Tour by Tuk-Tuk With Lunch and Dance Performance
After exploring the ancient capital of Polonnaruwa, visitors to Kandy can embark on a captivating city tour by tuk-tuk. This private 7-hour experience offers a comprehensive introduction to the last stronghold of the Sinhalese Kingdom.
Guests will visit the Kandy temple and the Palace of the Sacred Tooth Relic, two of the city’s most significant cultural sites. They’ll also explore the Bahirawakanda temple and admire the large seated Buddha statue.
The tour includes a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, where visitors can witness a traditional Kandyan dance performance. Throughout the day, travelers will have the opportunity to learn about Kandyan history and culture, as well as sample local cuisine at a restaurant.
The tuk-tuk transportation and all entrance fees are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides a flexible and convenient way to discover the highlights of Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy: City Tour by Tuk-Tuk With Lunch and Dance Performance Review
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From Kandy: Full-Day Private Tour in Kandy With Lunch
This full-day private tour in Kandy offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Priced from $95 per person, the 10-hour tour includes pickup from your hotel, visits to key attractions like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and a traditional Kandy cultural dance show.
Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the history of Buddhism and colonial resistance, admire the serene charm of Kandy Lake, and discover diverse plant species and orchids in the gardens.
Lunch at a local restaurant is included, as are entrance fees, transportation in an air-conditioned private vehicle, and all government taxes.
While photography with flash isn’t allowed, the tour provides ample opportunities to capture the city’s beauty. Remember to dress modestly when visiting sacred places.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a hassle-free way to experience the highlights of Kandy.
Read our full review: From Kandy: Full-Day Private Tour in Kandy With Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Dietary Restrictions Catered for During the Lunch?
Most restaurants in Kandy accommodate various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options, ensuring that guests with specific dietary needs can enjoy a satisfying lunch.
What Is the Dress Code for the Lunch Experiences?
The dress code is usually casual, though some establishments may have a slightly more formal dress code. Guests are generally advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing to enjoy their lunch experience fully.
Can the Lunch Experiences Accommodate Large Groups or Families?
The lunch experiences can accommodate large groups and families. Many restaurants offer private dining rooms or can arrange seating for sizable parties. Some even provide special menus and group packages to cater to bigger gatherings.
What Are the Payment Methods Accepted for the Lunch Tours?
Most lunch tours in Kandy accept various payment methods, including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. They’re flexible in accommodating large groups and families, ensuring a seamless dining experience for all.
Are the Lunch Venues Handicap Accessible?
Most of the lunch venues in Kandy are handicap accessible, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating areas to accommodate visitors with disabilities. However, it’s best to check the specific accessibility details of each venue prior to your visit.
The Sum Up
Kandy offers a range of lunch experiences to suit different interests. Visitors can enjoy private tours, tuk-tuk city tours, and full-day excursions, all with the added benefit of a delicious lunch. These tours provide opportunities to explore Kandy’s history, culture, and natural beauty while indulging in the local cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a more immersive experience, Kandy has something to satisfy your culinary cravings.