Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour

The Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour offers a captivating opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. This private excursion promises an insightful blend of spirituality, nature, and traditional performances, all while exploring the historic city of Kandy. From the stunning Royal Botanical Gardens to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, each stop along the way unveils a unique facet of the region’s vibrant history and customs. As the tour culminates in a captivating Kandy Cultural Show, one can’t help but wonder what other enchanting discoveries lie in store.

Key Points

• This private 9-hour Kandy tour showcases the city’s top attractions, including the Royal Botanical Gardens, Bahirawakanda Monastery, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
• The tour provides round-trip transportation, an English-speaking driver/guide, and entrance fees to the key sites, offering a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.
• Visitors can explore the expansive Royal Botanical Gardens, renowned for its diverse plant life, and enjoy panoramic views from the Bahirawakanda Monastery.
• The tour includes a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses a revered Buddhist relic, and a Kandy Cultural Show featuring traditional dances.
• The tour offers a convenient 30-minute lunch break, allowing guests to sample authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in a relaxed setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Providing an overview of the Kandy City Highlights Tour, this private excursion takes visitors on a 9-hour exploration of the historic and cultural attractions in and around Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Priced from Kč1,330 per person, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking driver/guide, and entrance fees to key sites like the Temple of the Tooth, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and the Kandy Cultural Show.

Highlights include visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Bahirawakanda Monastery, and the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Tooth Relic.

With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the sights and cultural heritage of Kandy.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, which guests can explore for around 2 hours. This historic garden served as the Allied Forces Headquarters during World War II and is home to thousands of plant species.

Next, the tour heads to the Bahirawakanda Monastery, which features a giant Buddha statue visible from all over Kandy and offers panoramic views of the city.

After a 30-minute lunch break, the group visits the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that housed the former palace complex for Kandyan kings.

The day ends with a Kandy Cultural Show, showcasing traditional Kandyan dances including demon and fire dances.

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya await visitors with their rich history and diverse plant life. Spanning over 147 acres, the gardens showcase thousands of exotic and indigenous plant species from across Sri Lanka.

Originally established in 1821, the gardens were used as the Allied Forces headquarters during World War II. Today, they’re a haven for nature enthusiasts, home to rare flora like the iconic Cannonball tree.

Winding paths lead visitors through lush landscapes, from vibrant flower beds to towering palm trees. Whether strolling through the Orchid House or admiring the giant Javan fig tree, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s botanical treasures.

Bahirawakanda Monastery

Perched atop a hill, the Bahirawakanda Monastery commands sweeping vistas of Kandy, its giant Buddha statue visible from across the city.

Visitors spend around an hour exploring the serene grounds and marveling at the colossal Buddha figure that overlooks the urban landscape. The monastery’s hilltop location provides a peaceful respite from the bustle of the city below.

Travelers can wander through the temple’s peaceful halls and snap photos of the stunning panoramic views.

Although not as famous as some of Kandy’s other attractions, the Bahirawakanda Monastery offers a chance to experience the city’s spiritual side and enjoy a moment of tranquility amidst the cultural highlights.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch

Lunch provides a welcomed respite during the tour, allowing visitors to refuel and recharge before continuing their exploration of Kandy’s cultural treasures.

The tour includes an optional 30-minute lunch stop, which can be added for an additional fee. During this time, guests can savor local Sri Lankan cuisine in a relaxed setting.

The lunch menu typically features:

• Authentic rice and curry dishes

• Freshly prepared vegetarian options

• Flavorful sambols and chutneys

• Refreshing tropical fruit juices or chilled coconut water

This midday meal not only satisfies the appetite but also offers a chance to take in the vibrant culinary traditions of the region.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

A spiritual centerpiece of the Kandy city tour, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic holds immense cultural and historical significance, housing what’s believed to be a sacred relic of the Buddha.

Visitors spend around 2 hours exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was once the palace complex for Kandyan kings. Within its ornate halls, they’ll find the shrine that protects the relic, as well as intricate carvings, paintings, and Kandyan-style architecture.

Guides share insights into the temple’s history and rituals, offering a deeper understanding of its role in Sri Lankan Buddhist culture. This iconic attraction provides a powerful spiritual experience and a chance to connect with the country’s rich heritage.

Kandy Cultural Show

Capping off the Kandy city highlights tour, visitors are treated to a 1-hour Kandy Cultural Show that showcases the region’s distinctive traditional dances, including the mesmerizing demon and fire dances.

The lively performance features:

• Intricate Kandyan dances in vibrant costumes

• Rhythmic drumming and music

• Acrobatic fire dances that captivate the audience

• Ceremonial demon dances with elaborate masks

This cultural extravaganza provides a fitting finale to the tour, immersing guests in the rich heritage and customs of Kandy.

The show’s energy and artistry leave a lasting impression, complementing the day’s exploration of the city’s iconic temples and lush gardens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity for the Driver/Guide Included in the Price?

The tour price includes all taxes and service charges, suggesting that gratuity for the driver/guide is already factored in. Customers should double-check with the tour provider to confirm if gratuity is expected on top of the listed price.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Personal Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit personal interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and request modifications to the itinerary within the overall tour duration and pricing structure.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not mention any discounts for children or seniors. However, some tour operators may offer reduced rates for these groups. It’s best to check with the tour provider about any available discounts before booking.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you need to reschedule, you can do so without penalty as long as you cancel within 24 hours of the scheduled tour.

Does the Tour Include Any Stops for Shopping or Local Crafts?

The tour does not explicitly include any stops for shopping or local crafts. The focus is on visiting cultural and historical sites like temples, gardens, and a cultural show. Travelers interested in shopping would need to inquire about optional add-ons or free time.

Recap

This captivating tour immerses visitors in Kandy’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Exploring the Royal Botanical Gardens, Bahirawakanda Monastery, and the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, it offers a remarkable insight into Sri Lanka’s rich history.

The tour culminates in a vibrant Kandy Cultural Show, showcasing the region’s traditional dances and performances, creating a fulfilling experience for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: