From Bentota: Kandy Tour with Tooth Temple & Gardens Visit

Exploring Sri Lanka’s Cultural Heart on a Day Trip from Bentota

If you’re planning a day out of the beach towns like Bentota, a trip to Kandy offers a rewarding glimpse into Sri Lanka’s spiritual and royal past. This one-day tour takes you through lush landscapes, historic temples, and vibrant gardens, all wrapped up in a comfortable and well-organized package. While it’s a packed day, it offers a solid introduction to the highlights that make Kandy special.

What we like about this tour is how it balances cultural sights with a taste of local life—think fragrant spice gardens and refreshing Ceylon tea. Plus, the small group size keeps things intimate and manageable. The only downside? The day is quite full, so if you prefer a slow, contemplative experience, some parts might feel rushed. Nevertheless, if you’re eager to see the city’s key attractions without the hassle of planning, this tour fits the bill.

This tour suits travelers who value history, religious sites, and lush scenery, especially those short on time but eager to tick off the essentials of Kandy. It’s perfect for first-timers or anyone interested in a broad overview of Sri Lanka’s cultural hub, with the chance to enjoy some authentic flavors along the way.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day trip from Bentota that covers Kandy’s top sights
• Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world
• Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to thousands of plant species and beautifully landscaped grounds
• Sample fresh Ceylon tea at a local tea factory, experiencing one of Sri Lanka’s most famous exports
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) adds a personal touch
• Price points offer good value, considering transportation, entry fees, and guided experiences

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Journey Through the Hills

The day begins with a timely hotel pickup in Bentota, a step that’s appreciated for saving you from navigating public transport or finding your own way. The transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a comfort after a possibly humid morning. As you leave the coast behind, you’ll travel through mountain valleys and expansive tea plantations. The scenic drive alone is worth the trip, with lush greenery and spice gardens that hint at Sri Lanka’s trade history.

Spice Gardens at Kegalle: Aromas and Local Flavors

Your first stop is a spice garden just outside Kegalle. Here, the fragrant air is filled with the scent of cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper. The entrance fee is included, so you can wander at your own pace. Many reviews mention how these gardens provide a hands-on look at the spices that have lured merchants for centuries. Expect to see a variety of medicinal plants and spices, along with the opportunity to learn about their traditional uses.

The Sacred Heart of Kandy: The Temple of the Tooth Relic

The real highlight is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This temple houses a relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha, making it one of the most sacred Buddhist sites globally. The tour includes exploring the temple grounds and learning about its significance, although the entrance fee is not included and must be purchased separately.

We loved the way this site is more than just a religious monument; it’s a symbol of Sri Lankan sovereignty and history. The temple’s intricate architecture, revered relic, and the surrounding area with Kandy Lake and nearby temples create an atmosphere of deep reverence. Be prepared for a respectful dress code—no shorts or sleeveless shirts—so come dressed accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kandy’s Cultural and Religious Scene

After the temple, you’ll walk around the area surrounding Kandy Lake. You’ll see both Hindu and Buddhist temples, reflecting the region’s spiritual diversity. The Natha Devale, a Hindu temple near the lake, adds to the vibrant religious tapestry of the city.

Travelers often comment that this part of the tour offers a good balance of sacred sites and lively street scenes, giving a real sense of local life. Keep an eye out for local vendors and the chance to see traditional drumming or dancing if your timing aligns.

Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya: Nature’s Showcase

Next, the lush Royal Botanical Gardens beckon. Home to over 8,000 plant species, the gardens are a delight for nature lovers. We found the extensive collection of orchids particularly beautiful, with their vibrant colors and delicate forms. The gardens also feature medicinal plants and spices—fitting given Sri Lanka’s historic spice trade.

Many reviews note that the gardens provide a peaceful respite from the busier city sights. It’s a great place to walk, take photos, or just breathe in the fragrant air amidst the greenery.

Ceylon Tea: The Perfect Sip

No Sri Lankan tour would be complete without experiencing its world-famous Ceylon tea. The final stop is a local tea factory, where you can observe the tea-making process and enjoy a refreshing cup. Many visitors find the tea tasting to be a highlight, especially since the factory provides insights into how the tea is processed and exported.

The included sample is a simple but satisfying way to end the day, and many reviews praise the quality and freshness of the tea served.

Return Journey: Relaxed and Satisfied

After a full day of sights and tastes, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in Bentota, hopefully with a camera full of photos and a head full of impressions. The tour’s limited group size ensures a more personal experience and easier navigation through sites that can get crowded.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $169 per person covers hotel pickup and drop-off, visits to the spice garden, the tea factory, and the botanical gardens, plus a sample of Ceylon tea. However, it’s important to note that entrance fees to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the botanical gardens are not included, so budget accordingly. Food and drinks outside the tea tasting are also not covered, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to purchase local eats during the day.

The tour emphasizes comfort and convenience—small groups, English- and German-speaking drivers, and flexible cancellation options (up to 24 hours in advance). These features make it a flexible and manageable way to experience Kandy without the stress of organizing transportation or guides yourself.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Kandy’s key sights in one day. It suits travelers who appreciate cultural and religious history, as well as those eager to enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural landscape and flavors. The inclusion of a tea factory adds a genuine local touch, perfect for those interested in the island’s iconic products.

However, it’s not suited for travelers with back problems or those looking for a very slow, contemplative pace. The day is quite full, and some sights might feel a bit rushed if you prefer a leisurely exploration.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers great value for anyone wanting an efficient, well-rounded introduction to Kandy’s highlights. It combines culture, scenic drives, and tasty local experiences—all with the convenience of hotel pickup and small-group intimacy.

While the price might seem steep for some, it includes many of the key activities and sights, reducing the hassle of planning. If you’re curious about Sri Lanka’s spiritual heart, enjoy lush gardens, and want a taste of local flavors, this day trip from Bentota is a solid choice.

Just remember to wear modest clothing, bring some cash for entrance fees, and come ready to learn about the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant city.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Bentota, making it convenient and stress-free.

How long is the journey to Kandy?
The drive from Bentota takes you through mountain valleys and tea plantations, and while exact travel time isn’t specified, expect a comfortable trip that allows you to enjoy scenic views.

Are entrance fees to the major sites included?
No, the entrance tickets to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanical Gardens are not included, so plan to purchase them separately.

What should I wear?
Modest clothing is required—no shorts or sleeveless shirts—especially when visiting religious sites.

How large are the groups?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, which enhances personalized attention and flexibility.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy local food during the day.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately one full day, with check availability to see specific starting times.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking, and fit within the age restrictions (not suitable for those with back problems).

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While not specified, Sri Lanka generally offers good weather year-round, but check local conditions and tour availability based on the season.

In short, this Kandy day trip from Bentota offers a well-rounded taste of Sri Lanka’s culture, history, and natural beauty—all in a comfortable, small-group setting. Perfect for travelers eager to experience the spiritual soul of the country without overextending their schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: