Embark on an enriching journey to the cultural heart of Sri Lanka with a Kandy private day trip from Colombo. Explore the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, where the sacred Buddha’s tooth resides, before wandering through the lush Royal Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a captivating cultural dance show showcasing traditional performances, followed by a delightful Kandyan cuisine lunch. As the day draws to a close, take in panoramic views from Bahirawakanda Hill. Discover why this seamless excursion is the perfect way to delve deeper into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and uncover its hidden gems.
Good To Know
- Explore Kandy’s rich Buddhist heritage, including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, during a private day trip from Colombo.
- Immerse in the natural beauty of Kandy’s Royal Botanical Gardens, showcasing diverse tropical flora and fauna.
- Experience the vibrant cultural traditions of Kandy through a captivating dance performance and a flavorful Kandyan cuisine lunch.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Kandy from the Bahirawakanda Hill Viewpoint, featuring a serene Buddha statue.
- Hassle-free transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable driver for the entire day.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Kandy’s most revered landmarks, stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Visitors can spend up to 3 hours exploring this iconic site, seeing its spiritual atmosphere and admiring its intricate architecture.
At the heart of the temple lies the relic of the Buddha’s tooth, a sacred object that draws pilgrims from across the world.
Witnessing the devotees pay their respects is a humbling experience, offering a glimpse into the deep-rooted traditions that permeate this revered place of worship.
Royal Botanical Gardens, Kandy
Spanning an impressive 147 acres, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kandy offer visitors a tranquil oasis of tropical flora and fauna. Guests can explore the stunning avenue of royal palms and marvel at the giant Javan fig tree. The gardens are home to a diverse array of exotic orchids, towering palm trees, and vibrant blooms. Visitors can stroll through the lush greenery, soak in the serene ambiance, and learn about the region’s unique plant life. The Royal Botanical Gardens provide a refreshing respite from the bustling city, allowing travelers to enjoy the beauty of nature.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Botanical Diversity | Discover an impressive collection of tropical plants, including rare orchids and towering palm trees. |
| Picturesque Landmarks | Admire the iconic avenue of royal palms and the giant Javan fig tree. |
| Tranquil Atmosphere | Enjoy a peaceful escape from the city, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. |
Cultural Dance Show
Visitors to Kandy can look forward to an immersive cultural dance performance, a showcase of the region’s vibrant traditions and rich heritage.
The 1.5-hour show features dancers adorned in colorful, ornate costumes, moving to the rhythm of traditional drums and music.
Audiences will witness a variety of dances, including:
- The graceful Kandyan dance, with its intricate footwork and expressive hand movements
- The mesmerizing fire dancing, where performers skillfully manipulate flaming batons
- The acrobatic devil dance, an ancient ritual performance
- The energetic Sabaragamu dance, with its pulsing beats and high-energy leaps
This captivating cultural experience offers a window into Kandy’s living heritage and leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.
Kandyan Cuisine Lunch
A delectable Kandyan cuisine lunch awaits visitors to Kandy, offering a flavorful exploration of the region’s rich culinary heritage. The meal features an array of traditional dishes, including fragrant rice and curry, spicy sambols, and the unique jackfruit preparations.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Rice and Curry | Fluffy basmati rice accompanied by an assortment of curries, such as chicken, dhal, and vegetable |
| Jackfruit Dishes | Sweet and savory preparations featuring the versatile tropical fruit, including jackfruit curry and jackfruit seeni sambol |
| Spicy Sambols | Vibrant, flavor-packed condiments made with a blend of spices, chili peppers, and fresh ingredients |
This immersive culinary experience allows visitors to savor the essence of Kandyan cuisine, blending traditional flavors and techniques with a modern touch.
Kandy Lake Stroll
After savoring the delectable Kandyan cuisine, visitors can embark on a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake.
The picturesque lake offers a serene retreat from the bustling city, providing stunning views of the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
Visitors can:
- Admire the tranquil waters and surrounding lush greenery.
- Spot local wildlife, such as water birds and monitor lizards, along the shoreline.
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and observe the daily life of the locals.
- Capture breathtaking photos of the lake, with the temple’s distinctive architecture as a backdrop.
This rejuvenating walk allows travelers to soak in the essence of Kandy and its cultural heritage.
Bahirawakanda Hill Viewpoint
From the Kandy Lake, visitors can proceed to the Bahirawakanda Hill for a panoramic view of the city.
Atop the hill, they’ll find a massive Buddha statue overlooking the valley below. The vantage point offers sweeping vistas of Kandy’s rooftops, the serene lake, and the surrounding mountains.
Visitors can explore the hilltop temple and its peaceful grounds, taking in the spiritual atmosphere. On a clear day, the views stretch out for miles, providing an excellent opportunity to photograph the city and its natural setting.
This optional stop adds a scenic conclusion to the Kandy day trip, leaving travelers with a lasting impression of the region’s natural beauty.
Transportation and Accessibility
The Kandy Private Day Trip provides seamless transportation throughout the excursion. Guests are picked up directly from their Colombo accommodations in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle equipped with WiFi.
The journey to Kandy takes around 3 hours, allowing ample time to admire the scenic countryside views along the way. Upon arrival, the vehicle and driver are available for the entire day, ensuring a hassle-free exploration of the itinerary highlights:
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Royal Botanical Gardens
- Cultural Dance Show
- Panoramic views from Bahirawakanda Hill
This comprehensive transportation arrangement ensures a seamless and enjoyable Kandy experience from start to finish.
Important Guidelines and Reminders
Proper attire and respectful conduct are essential when visiting the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Shorts, sleeveless shirts, and short skirts are prohibited, as guests are expected to dress modestly.
Photography with flash isn’t allowed inside the temple, as it can disrupt the spiritual atmosphere.
Smoking, drinking alcohol, and the use of drugs are strictly forbidden.
Visitors should also be mindful of the temple’s rules and regulations, which are in place to preserve the sanctity of this sacred site.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may be suitable for children, but certain restrictions apply. Kids should wear comfortable clothing and follow temple etiquette. The cultural dance show and botanical gardens may be enjoyable, but the long day could be tiring for young ones.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Dietary Needs?
Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate special dietary needs. The tour provider is flexible and willing to arrange vegetarian, vegan, or halal meals upon request during the included lunch.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
Yes, the tour company offers discounted rates for seniors and students. Travelers 60 years and older receive a 10% discount, while students with valid ID receive a 5% reduction on the tour price.
Are There Any Additional Activities That Can Be Added to the Tour?
While the standard tour includes key highlights, travelers can opt for additional activities like visiting a tea plantation, exploring local markets, or taking a nature hike in the surrounding hills to further enjoy Kandy’s cultural and natural wonders.
Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The itinerary includes private transportation, a private guide, and all entrance fees. This allows for a more personalized and flexible experience.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Discover Sri Lankas Splendors: 7 Nights & 8 Days Adventure
- Kandy: 2 Day All-Inclusive Tea Plantation Adventure!
- Kandy: Village Cooking Class 12 Dishes With Market Tour
- Kandy Day Tour From Colombo
- Kandy to Pinnawala & Ambuluwawa Adventure
- Kandy: Afternoon Private Custom City Tour!
- Ambuluwawa Tower With Kandy City Tour
- Kandy Day Tour From Colombo by Car / Van
- From Kandy: Sigiriya and Dambulla Private Day Tour
- Nuwara Eliya: All-Inclusive Private Sightseeing Day Tour
- Paragliding in Kandy
- Kandy City Explore Day Tour , Like a Local
- Kandy: Sigiriya Fortress & Cave Temple All-Inclusive Tour
- Kandy To Nuwara Eliya Drop Tour – Sri Lanka
- From Kandy: Nuwara Eliya by Train
The Sum Up
Enjoy Kandy’s cultural heritage on this enriching private day trip from Colombo. Witness the sacred Buddha’s tooth at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, stroll through the lush Royal Botanical Gardens, and savor traditional Kandyan cuisine. Conclude your journey with panoramic views from Bahirawakanda Hill, all while traveling in comfort with a dedicated vehicle and driver. This captivating excursion offers a seamless exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural heart.