Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural heartbeat, beckons visitors to enjoy its rich heritage through a captivating sightseeing tour by tuk tuk. Whether you choose the morning or evening option, this 6-hour journey promises an enchanting exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, from the serene Bahirawakanda Temple to the historic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. With an experienced, English-speaking driver at the helm and entry fees included, travelers can expect an immersive experience that delves into the vibrant traditions and stunning landscapes that make Kandy a truly unique destination. But the true wonder lies in the stories that await, just waiting to be discovered.
Good To Know
- A 6-hour Kandy sightseeing tour by Tuk Tuk, covering major cultural attractions like Bahirawakanda Temple, Three Temples Loop, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
- The tour is priced at K₴792 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Highlights of the tour include panoramic views, intricate carvings, and a captivating Kandyan cultural show.
- The tour includes an English-speaking Tuk Tuk driver, entry fees, and transportation costs, with free hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Flexible booking options, allowing travelers to select participant numbers and date availability, ensuring a personalized experience.
Tour Overview
The Kandy Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour provides visitors with a immersive 6-hour journey through the cultural heart of Kandy.
Priced at K₨792 per person, this activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking options.
The tour starts and ends in Kandy, with highlights including the Bahirawakanda Temple, Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya, Embekke Temple, Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Viharaya, and the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Adventurers can also explore Kandy City.
The tour includes an English-speaking Tuk Tuk driver, all entry fees, and transportation costs, ensuring a seamless and enriching sightseeing experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kandy.
Itinerary Highlights
The Kandy Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour‘s itinerary highlights a diverse array of cultural and historical attractions.
Visitors can explore the serene Bahirawakanda Temple, taking in its peaceful atmosphere for 30 minutes. They can then venture to the optional Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya for 15 minutes, followed by the picturesque Embekke Temple and Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Viharaya, each for 20 minutes.
The tour’s centerpiece is the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, where guests can spend 1.5 hours immersed in its rich history and significance.
For those interested, the tour also includes a 20-minute stop in Kandy City, allowing visitors to soak up the local atmosphere.
Key Attractions
Towering at an impressive 88 feet, the Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya features one of Sri Lanka’s tallest Buddha statues, symbolizing the profound enlightenment that this sacred site represents.
The Three Temples Loop is a scenic 7km trek connecting the Embekke, Lankathilake, and Gadaladeniya temples, offering glimpses into the country’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
The Kandy View Point, also known as Arthur’s Seat, provides panoramic vistas of the serene Kandy Lake and the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal spot for photography.
No visit to Kandy is complete without witnessing the captivating Kandyan Cultural Show Dance, a highlight since 1982 that showcases the region’s vibrant traditions through music and performance.
Tour Inclusions
The Kandy Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off within 10km of Kandy City, ensuring a convenient start and end to the day’s adventures.
Travelers will be accompanied by an experienced Tuk Tuk driver who speaks English, navigating the sights with ease. All parking fees and transport-related expenses are covered, allowing guests to focus on seeing the cultural experiences.
Entry tickets to all sites and activities, including the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, are included in the tour price.
However, food and drinks aren’t provided, giving guests the flexibility to explore local cuisine at their own pace.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking Information
Typically, travelers can select the number of participants for the Kandy Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour and check availability for their preferred date.
The meeting point is in Kandy City, with free hotel pickup and drop-off options available within 10km of the city center.
Booking is flexible, allowing travelers to reserve their spot without upfront payment. The activity can be canceled for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind when planning.
Bahirawakanda Temple
As visitors ascend the winding path up the hill, they’re greeted by the serene and awe-inspiring Bahirawakanda Temple.
This Buddhist temple commands breathtaking views of Kandy and the surrounding hills, making it a must-visit for travelers.
The temple’s highlights include:
- The towering golden Buddha statue, which stands at an impressive 88 feet, symbolizing enlightenment and spiritual awakening.
- The intricately carved stone carvings and murals adorning the temple walls, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of Sri Lankan artisans.
- The peaceful atmosphere and tranquil ambiance, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and connect with the site’s profound religious significance.
Three Temples Loop
The Three Temples Loop is a scenic 7-kilometer trek connecting the ancient sites of Embekke, Lankathilake, and Gadaladeniya.
Visitors enjoy local culture and breathtaking landscapes as they explore these well-preserved temples.
The Embekke Temple features intricately carved wooden columns, while Lankathilake impresses with its towering Buddha statue.
Gadaladeniya’s impressive architecture blends Buddhist and Hindu influences.
Along the way, travelers can admire panoramic views of Kandy’s lush hills and paddy fields.
This historical loop offers a unique opportunity to understand Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and the deep connection between religion, art, and nature.
Kandy Cultural Show
After exploring the historical and architectural wonders of the Three Temples Loop, visitors can enjoy the vibrant cultural experience of the Kandy Cultural Show.
This captivating performance features an array of traditional dances, music, and costumes that have been passed down through generations.
Highlights include:
- The energetic Kandyan dance, where performers showcase their agility and grace with rapid footwork and rhythmic drum beats.
- The mesmerizing fire-walking ritual, a testament to the spiritual beliefs and rituals of the Sinhalese people.
- The elaborate masks and costumes that bring to life the myths and legends of Sri Lankan folklore.
The Kandy Cultural Show offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan heritage, creating an unforgettable cultural experience for visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tuk Tuk Air-Conditioned?
The tour does not mention if the tuk tuk is air-conditioned. Most standard tuk tuks in Kandy are open-air vehicles without air conditioning. Visitors should dress comfortably and expect a more immersive, close-up experience of the local environment during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks on the tour, though they’re not included in the tour price. This gives you the flexibility to enjoy snacks and refreshments at your own pace during the sightseeing.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements?
There are no specific age restrictions or requirements for this Kandy Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though young children may require adult supervision. Participants can enjoy the sights and activities at their own pace.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?
Absolutely, the tour itinerary can be customized to visit specific sites based on your interests. The tour provider is flexible and can tailor the experience to your preferences, ensuring you make the most of your time in Kandy.
How Much Space Is Available for Luggage in the Tuk Tuk?
The tour tuk tuk has limited storage space, typically only enough for small personal items like cameras and daypacks. Larger luggage may not fit comfortably, so it’s best to travel light for this sightseeing experience.
The Sum Up
This captivating Tuk Tuk tour offers an immersive experience of Kandy’s cultural heart. Explore the serene Bahirawakanda Temple and the historic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, gaining insights into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. With flexible morning or evening options, this tour promises a memorable journey through Kandy’s stunning landscapes and vibrant traditions, accompanied by an English-speaking driver and inclusive of entry fees.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Evening Experiences in Kandy
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