Kandy Cultural Heritage Day Tour
Discover the cultural heart of Sri Lanka with a day tour to Kandy, a sacred city nestled in the lush hill country. Visit the world-famous Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses one of Buddhism’s most sacred relics.
Enjoy the beauty of the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, take a scenic walk around Kandy Lake, and experience traditional Kandyan arts such as wood carving, batik making, or even a cultural dance performance (optional in the evening).
Tour Highlights
Temple of the Tooth
Located in the heart of Kandy, the Temple of the Tooth Relic is Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist shrine. It houses a revered tooth of the Buddha and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful Kandyan architecture, daily rituals, and spiritual atmosphere.The temple is part of the royal palace complex and is richly decorated with traditional Kandyan architecture, intricate wood carvings, and golden embellishments. Devotees and visitors alike gather daily to witness the ritual offerings, drumming ceremonies, and the peaceful aura that surrounds the shrine.
During the annual Esala Perahera festival, the relic is honored with a grand procession featuring dancers, drummers, and beautifully adorned elephants, making it one of the most celebrated events in Sri Lanka.
Royal Botanical Gardens
ocated just outside Kandy, the Royal Botanical Gardens are Sri Lanka’s largest and most beautiful botanical gardens, home to over 4,000 species of plants, including orchids, palms, medicinal herbs, and giant fig trees. Once reserved for royalty, today it’s a peaceful haven for nature lovers and a must-visit for its scenic walking paths and vibrant floral displays.
Kandy Lake
Nestled in the heart of the city, Kandy Lake is a peaceful man-made lake built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. Surrounded by shaded walkways and city landmarks like the Temple of the Tooth, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the scenic views of Kandy’s cultural charm.
local crafts
Discover Sri Lanka’s rich artisan heritage through its local crafts, including wood carvings, batik textiles, handmade masks, gem cutting, and brassware. Crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations, these items reflect the island’s vibrant culture and creativity. Visiting a local workshop lets you see the process firsthand — and maybe even take home a handmade souvenir.
Map
Itinerary
- 07:00 AM: Hotel pickup from Colombo / Dambulla / Sigiriya
- 10:00 AM: Arrive in Kandy – Temple of the Tooth visit
- 12:00 PM: Stroll around Kandy Lake and lunch break
- 02:00 PM: Visit Royal Botanical Gardens
- 03:30 PM: Explore local craft workshops and markets
- 05:00 PM: Optional Kandyan cultural dance show
- 06:00 PM: Begin return journey
- 08:30 PM: Drop-off at hotel
