Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour

Set out on a journey to the enchanting city of Kandy, where a tapestry of ancient temples, verdant gardens, and vibrant cultural traditions awaits. Enjoy the serene ambiance of the Royal Botanical Gardens, before ascending the Bahirawakanda hill for breathtaking vistas and an encounter with a grand Buddha statue. Savor the flavors of a delectable Sri Lankan lunch, then witness the sacred rituals at the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. As the day winds down, prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing Kandyan cultural show, where traditional dances and performances will transport you to the heart of this remarkable destination.

Good To Know

Comprehensive 9-hour tour of Kandy’s top attractions, including the Royal Botanical Gardens, Bahirawakanda viewpoint, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Guided tour with round-trip transportation and admission fees to major sites, providing a hassle-free experience.
Opportunity to witness a captivating Kandy Cultural Show featuring traditional dances and drumming.
Includes a 30-minute lunch break at a local restaurant, offering a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility for the traveler.

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Tour Overview

The Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the cultural and historical landmarks in the captivating city of Kandy.

Priced from $57.60 per person, this 9-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission to key attractions like the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Guests can expect to visit the Bahirawakanda viewpoint, enjoy a traditional Kandyan cultural show, and savor a 30-minute lunch break.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides flexibility and value for travelers seeking an immersive Kandy experience.

Itinerary Highlights

During the Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour, travelers can expect to explore a variety of captivating sites across the city.

The tour begins with a visit to the renowned Royal Botanical Gardens, which served as a headquarters for Allied forces during World War II and boasts thousands of plant species.

Next, they’ll ascend to the Bahirawakanda hilltop, admiring the giant Buddha statue and panoramic views of Kandy.

After a 30-minute lunch break, the tour continues to the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, home to Buddha’s revered tooth.

The day culminates with a vibrant Kandy Cultural Show, featuring traditional Kandyan dances like the demon and fire dances.

Royal Botanical Gardens

Spanning over 150 acres, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kandy stand as a lush oasis teeming with an impressive array of flora.

Visitors can explore the gardens’ vast collection of over 4,000 plant species, including rare and endemic varieties. Winding pathways lead past beautifully landscaped grounds, tranquil ponds, and an impressive array of exotic trees.

The gardens’ historical significance adds to the experience, as the site was once used as the Allied Forces’ headquarters during World War II.

With its serene atmosphere and horticultural delights, the Royal Botanical Gardens offer a captivating glimpse into Kandy’s natural wonders.

Bahirawakanda

Perched atop a verdant hillock, Bahirawakanda offers visitors a captivating panorama of Kandy’s bustling cityscape.

At the heart of this sacred site sits a colossal Buddha statue, its serene gaze overlooking the lush surroundings.

Tourists can wander along the winding paths, taking in the sweeping vistas of the city and the distant hills.

The one-hour visit provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle below, allowing travelers to enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.

Whether seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply a breathtaking viewpoint, Bahirawakanda delivers an enriching experience that complements the tour’s other cultural highlights.

Lunch

Midway through the day’s itinerary, the tour makes a brief lunch stop, allowing guests to refuel and recharge.

The lunch break lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing just enough time to enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Travelers can expect a typical Sri Lankan rice and curry spread, featuring an array of flavorful curries, tempered vegetables, and fragrant basmati rice.

This hearty, nutritious lunch fuels the group for the remainder of the day’s activities, which include visits to the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and a vibrant cultural performance.

The quick lunch break ensures the tour keeps moving at a comfortable pace, maximizing the time spent exploring Kandy’s top sights.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, takes center stage on the tour’s itinerary.

Visitors spend two hours exploring this revered Buddhist temple, home to the sacred relic of Buddha’s tooth. They marvel at the ornate architecture and intricate carvings that adorn the temple’s halls.

The relic, housed in a golden canopy, is the object of great veneration for Sri Lankan Buddhists. Guests have the opportunity to witness rituals and ceremonies honoring the sacred tooth.

This immersive experience offers a deep dive into Kandy’s rich cultural heritage and the significance of this holy site within the Buddhist faith.

Kandy Cultural Show

Towards the end of the day, guests are invited to witness a captivating Kandy Cultural Show. This vibrant performance showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region, featuring a mesmerizing display of traditional Kandyan dances.

The audience will be entranced by:

Intricate demon dances, with performers adorned in vibrant costumes and masks
Electrifying fire dances, as dancers skillfully manipulate flames with grace and precision
Rhythmic drum beats that reverberate through the air, accompanied by the graceful movements of the dancers
Displays of ancient rituals and ceremonies, offering a glimpse into the traditions that have been passed down through generations.

This cultural extravaganza promises to be a highlight of the tour, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the unique heritage of Kandy.

Important Information

Travelers will want to bring along their passport or ID, as well as comfortable shoes for the day’s activities.

The tour’s dress code requires shoulders and knees to be covered when visiting sacred places. Smoking, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed during the tour.

The tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and includes entrance fees to the Temple of the Tooth, Botanical Garden, and Cultural Show.

The experience offers a well-rounded introduction to the cultural highlights of Kandy, from the serene botanical gardens to the lively dance performance.

Participants can expect a seamless, informative tour led by an English-speaking driver/guide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic?

Photography is generally permitted at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, but visitors must follow certain rules. They shouldn’t use flash and should avoid disrupting the solemn atmosphere of the sacred site.

What Kind of Traditional Snacks Are Offered During the Cultural Show?

The cultural show offers a variety of traditional Sri Lankan snacks, including kokis (lace-like crispy treats), kevum (oil-fried sweets), and watalappan (a rich custard-like dessert). These snacks provide an authentic taste of local cuisine during the performance.

Can Travelers Visit the Kandy Lake During the Tour?

Unfortunately, the Kandy Lake is not included as part of this tour itinerary. The tour focuses on visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens, Bahirawakanda, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and attending the Kandy Cultural Show.

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Mobility Issues?

While the tour includes several stops that may pose accessibility challenges for travelers with mobility issues, the tour provider may be able to accommodate them with advance notice. It’s best to inquire about specific needs before booking.

Can the Tour Start Earlier or Later Than the Scheduled Time?

The tour’s start time can be flexible, as the provider offers hotel pickup around 9:00 AM. However, it’s best to confirm the exact departure time when booking, as they may accommodate earlier or later starts upon request, depending on availability.

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The Sum Up

The Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour offers an immersive cultural experience. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant flora of the Royal Botanical Gardens, admire the giant Buddha statue atop Bahirawakanda, and witness sacred rituals at the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The day concludes with a captivating Kandyan cultural show, showcasing the region’s rich heritage through traditional dances and performances.