The From Kandy: Panduwasnuwara & Yapahuwa Guided Tour offers visitors an immersive journey through Sri Lanka’s captivating history. This 7-hour excursion, priced at ₹2,012 per person, takes travelers on a guided exploration of the ancient Panduwasnuwara ruins and the impressive Yapahuwa rock fortress. Along the way, they’ll witness the island’s rich royal heritage and Buddhist significance firsthand. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and an English-speaking guide, this tour promises to transport guests to a bygone era and leave them with a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures.
Key Points
- A guided tour from Kandy exploring the ancient Panduwasnuwara ruins and the Yapahuwa rock fortress, providing insight into Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- The tour is priced at ₹2,012 per person, with a duration of approximately 7 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- The itinerary includes visiting the Panduwasnuwara royal palace, the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and the Yapahuwa rock fortress, known for its architectural marvels.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and 1 liter of bottled water per person, but excludes personal expenses and entrance fees.
- Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing, remove shoes when entering temples, and refrain from smoking, consuming alcohol, and wearing inappropriate attire during the tour.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This guided tour from Kandy to the ancient sites of Panduwasnuwara and Yapahuwa is priced from ₹2,012 per person and lasts approximately 7 hours.
The tour includes pickup from your Kandy hotel, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking guide.
You’ll explore the Panduwasnuwara ruins, including the royal palace and a towering 297-foot structure, before visiting the Temple of the Tooth Relic and learning about the Panda Wewa irrigation system.
The tour then takes you to the impressive 13th-century rock fortress of Yapahuwa. A lunch break is provided, and you’ll be dropped back off at your Kandy hotel by 6 pm.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
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Itinerary and Highlights
The tour commences with pickup from your hotel in Kandy at approximately 7 am, before embarking on the 2.5-hour drive to Panduwasnuwara. Upon arrival at 9:30 am, you’ll explore the ancient royal palace and the impressive 297-foot wide tower.
Next, you’ll visit the restored Temple of the Tooth Relic and learn about Panda Wewa, the first irrigation system. The tour then proceeds to the 13th-century Yapahuwa rock fortress, where you can admire the stupa remains and Kandyan-era paintings.
After a lunch break at 2 pm, you’ll return to Kandy by 6 pm.
Included Services
The tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, along with the services of an English-speaking chauffeur/guide.
Plus, the package provides 1 liter of bottled mineral water per person, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.
All taxes and service charges are also covered in the price. This ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for the participants.
The included services aim to provide convenience and comfort throughout the journey, allowing your to fully enjoy the cultural and historical exploration of Panduwasnuwara and Yapahuwa.
With these provisions, the tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to the needs of the travelers.
Exclusions and Restrictions
Travelers should note that food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included in the tour price. Plus, personal expenses and entrance fees for Yapahuwa and Dambadeniya are excluded from the package. Pregnant women are also not permitted to join the tour.
These exclusions and restrictions are important considerations for prospective participants to keep in mind when booking the guided tour.
The tour has the following restrictions:
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Pets aren’t allowed on the tour.
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Smoking, wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, and consuming alcohol or drugs are prohibited.
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Shoes must be removed when visiting temples and places of worship.
Important Information and Recommendations
Bringing a passport or ID, wearing comfortable shoes, and packing sunglasses and a sun hat are recommended for this tour.
Smoking, wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts, and consuming alcohol or drugs are strictly prohibited.
Visitors must remove their shoes when entering temples and places of worship.
It’s a good idea to bring a packed breakfast if you’re unable to eat at your hotel before the tour.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women.
Following these guidelines will ensure a comfortable and respectful experience as you explore the historical sites of Panduwasnuwara and Yapahuwa.
Panduwasnuwara Ruins
Nestled in the lush countryside, the Panduwasnuwara ruins offer a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history. Visitors can explore the remnants of the former royal palace, including the impressive 297-foot wide tower that once stood as a symbol of the kingdom’s power and prosperity.
The key highlights of the Panduwasnuwara ruins include:
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The restored Temple of the Tooth Relic, where visitors can learn about the Buddhist relic that holds great significance for the country.
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Panda Wewa, the first irrigation system in the region, which played a crucial role in supporting the agricultural activities of the ancient kingdom.
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The opportunity to wander through the archaeological site and imagine the grandeur of the past, as you take in the serene surroundings.
Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Tooth Relic stands as a revered site for Buddhists, housing the sacred relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha. Located in Kandy, the temple is a major pilgrimage destination and a symbol of Sri Lankan Buddhist identity.
Visitors can witness the daily rituals, including the offering of flowers and the ceremonial bathing of the relic. The temple’s architecture showcases intricate carvings and beautiful paintings, blending local and Indian influences.
As part of the tour, guests will learn about the historical significance of the Temple of the Tooth Relic and its role in the country’s Buddhist heritage. The visit provides a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
Yapahuwa, the 13th-century rock fortress, rises majestically from the surrounding landscape, showcasing the architectural prowess of its builders. This impressive site was once the capital of Sri Lanka, serving as a royal citadel and a center of Buddhism.
Visitors can explore the remnants of this historic fortification, including:
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The ornate stone staircase, a masterpiece of engineering, leading up to the summit of the rock.
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The awe-inspiring stupa, a well-preserved Buddhist monument that stands as a testament to the site’s religious significance.
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The intricate rock carvings and paintings, which provide a glimpse into the artistic achievements of the Kandyan era.
Exploring Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is a captivating experience, offering a window into Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring Children on This Tour?
Yes, children are welcome on this tour. However, the tour may not be suitable for very young children, as the sites involve walking and exploring ruins. Parental supervision is recommended to ensure the safety and enjoyment of children.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?
The tour is available in English only. While the company doesn’t offer multilingual tours, they can accommodate special requests if arranged in advance. Guests should inquire about language options when booking the tour.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?
The tour doesn’t include lunch, so there are no specific dietary restrictions. Travelers can choose their own lunch options during the break, allowing them to accommodate any dietary needs or preferences.
Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Sites?
Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional sites. Customers should inquire about customizing the itinerary with the tour operator, who can provide pricing and availability for adding more destinations to the tour.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
Yes, the tour operator offers group discounts. Larger groups can enjoy lower per-person rates, making the tour more affordable. Customers should inquire about group pricing when making their booking to take advantage of any available discounts.
Recap
The From Kandy: Panduwasnuwara & Yapahuwa Guided Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s historic sites, providing an insightful look into the island’s royal and Buddhist heritage.
With its all-inclusive package, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an enriching and immersive cultural experience for visitors seeking to uncover the country’s captivating past.
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