Colombo: Yapahuwa, Dambadeniya, & Panduwasnuwara Tour

Embark on an enriching 13-hour journey from Colombo and discover the historical gems of Yapahuwa, Dambadeniya, and Panduwasnuwara. Marvel at the iconic Temple of the Tooth and the royal palace in Dambadeniya, explore the architectural wonders of the Yapahuwa rock fortress, and uncover the ancient ruins of Panduwasnuwara – one of Sri Lanka’s earliest kingdoms. With comfortable air-conditioned transport and an insightful guide, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage and history. But the true wonder lies in the stories waiting to be unveiled – stories that will transport you back in time and leave you thirsting for more.

Key Points

• This 13-hour tour from Colombo visits the historical sites of Yapahuwa, Dambadeniya, and Panduwasnuwara, offering insights into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
• The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, and entrance fees, with hotel pickup and drop-off provided.
• Highlights include the Temple of the Tooth in Dambadeniya, the rock fortress of Yapahuwa, and the ancient city ruins of Panduwasnuwara.
• Yapahuwa features intricate staircases and sculptural carvings, while Panduwasnuwara showcases diverse architectural influences from the 5th century BC to the 12th century.
• The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the historical significance and architectural marvels of these important Sri Lankan sites.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour from Colombo allows visitors to explore the historical sites of Yapahuwa, Dambadeniya, and Panduwasnuwara, with a duration of 13 hours and a price starting from $103.20 per person.

The tour includes pickup from your Colombo hotel at 6am, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and entrance fees.

You’ll have the chance to visit the Temple of the Tooth and royal palace complex in Dambadeniya, the impressive rock fortress of Yapahuwa, and the ancient ruins and museum in Panduwasnuwara.

The tour also includes an English-speaking driver/guide, one bottle of mineral water per person, and hotel drop-off by 7:30pm.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from your Colombo hotel at 6am, followed by the first stop at Dambadeniya to visit the Temple of the Tooth and the impressive royal palace complex, which takes approximately 2 hours.

Next, you’ll explore the rock fortress of Yapahuwa, marveling at the intricate staircases, stone sculptures, and pillar carvings for around 2 hours.

The final stop is Panduwasnuwara, where you’ll discover the ancient city’s ruins and visit the onsite museum, spending about an hour there.

Transportation and Inclusions

Throughout the tour, an air-conditioned vehicle transports participants, ensuring a comfortable journey. The package includes entrance fees, an English-speaking driver/guide, and one bottle of mineral water per person, along with hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all applicable taxes and service charges. However, the cost of food, drinks, gratuities, and personal expenses are excluded.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Entrance Fees	Food and Drinks
English-speaking Driver/Guide	Gratuities
Bottled Water	Personal Expenses
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
All Taxes and Service Charges

Experience and Exploration

As a former capital under King Parakramabahu II, Dambadeniya was a significant hub during the mid-13th century, showcasing the historical importance of the site.

Yapahuwa, another key destination, was once a fortress built atop a rock, which served as a meditation retreat.

Panduwasnuwara, on the other hand, represents one of the earliest kingdoms in Sri Lanka, exhibiting diverse architectural influences from the 5th century BC to the 12th century.

These sites offer a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the intricate stone carvings, staircases, and ruins that bear witness to the country’s storied past, providing a truly immersive and educational experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Dambadeniya: Temple of the Tooth

Dambadeniya boasts the revered Temple of the Tooth, a sacred site that holds one of Buddhism’s most cherished relics – a tooth believed to have belonged to Lord Buddha himself.

The temple’s intricate architecture and vibrant murals showcase the artistic prowess of Sri Lankan craftsmanship during the 13th century.

Visitors can wander through the royal palace complex, which once housed the royal court and other administrative buildings.

The site’s historical significance is palpable, as it served as the capital under King Parakramabahu II, a pivotal figure who contributed to the kingdom’s golden age.

Exploring the Temple of the Tooth and the surrounding ruins offers a glimpse into Dambadeniya’s illustrious past and its enduring spiritual legacy.

Yapahuwa: Rock Fortress Exploration

After visiting the historic Temple of the Tooth in Dambadeniya, the tour continues to the impressive rock fortress of Yapahuwa. Situated atop a massive rock formation, this former capital boasts a wealth of architectural wonders and cultural significance dating back to the 13th century. Guests will climb the intricate stone staircases to explore the site’s many highlights, including stunning sculptural carvings and towering stone pillars. The fortress also served as a center for meditation, providing a serene setting for visitors to connect with the site’s spiritual heritage. From the summit, sweeping views of the surrounding landscape offer a breathtaking panorama of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Key Features	Description
Architecture	Staircases, sculptures, pillars
History	13th century capital
Spirituality	Meditation center
Views	Sweeping vistas of natural landscape

Panduwasnuwara: Ancient City Ruins

From Yapahuwa, the tour continues to the ancient city of Panduwasnuwara, where visitors can discover the captivating ruins and onsite museum showcasing the diverse architectural influences that shaped this historic site over centuries.

Dating back to the 5th century BC, Panduwasnuwara was one of the first kingdoms in Sri Lanka. The ruins provide a glimpse into the city’s rich past, with structures reflecting influences from various eras up until the 12th century.

The on-site museum offers a deeper understanding of the site’s archaeological significance and the diverse cultural heritage it represents. Guests can explore the remains of palaces, temples, and other important buildings, seeing the fascinating history of this ancient Sri Lankan kingdom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Available on Weekends?

Yes, the tour is available on weekends. The tour operator offers flexible scheduling, allowing visitors to book the tour on any day of the week, including weekends, to accommodate different travel plans and preferences.

Can I Customize the Itinerary for This Tour?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Customers can work with the tour provider to adjust the duration, sights visited, and other details to personalize the experience and meet their specific interests and needs.

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Visitors should avoid revealing or overly casual attire to respect the cultural and historical sites on the itinerary.

Can I Book This Tour for a Large Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a large group. The tour operator offers a private group experience, allowing you to customize the itinerary and enjoy the tour with your own party. Booking in advance is recommended to secure availability.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?

The tour provider does offer a senior citizen discount, typically around 10% off the regular price. Seniors should inquire about availability and eligibility when booking the tour to receive the discounted rate.

Recap

This captivating 13-hour tour from Colombo allows you to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Marvel at the Temple of the Tooth and the royal palace in Dambadeniya, explore the architectural wonders of the Yapahuwa rock fortress, and uncover the ancient ruins of Panduwasnuwara.

With comfortable air-conditioned transport and an insightful guide, this journey offers a comprehensive glimpse into the country’s history and leaves you with a deeper appreciation for its enduring cultural legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: