From Colombo: 3-Day Kandy, Sigiriya, Ella, Nuwara Eliya Tour

Set out on a captivating 3-day journey from Colombo, exploring the cultural gems and natural wonders of Sri Lanka. Witness the sacred sites of Kandy, conquer the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress, and learn about the serene landscapes of Nuwara Eliya and Ella. This tour promises to be an unforgettable experience, unveiling the diverse beauty that this island nation has to offer. Delve deeper to uncover the highlights of this remarkable expedition.

Key Points

• Discover the cultural and natural wonders of Kandy, including the Royal Botanical Garden, traditional dance performances, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
• Explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and experience the diverse wildlife of Minneriya National Park.
• Enjoy the lush tea gardens of Nuwara Eliya and enjoy the scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella.
• Visit the Ramboda Waterfall and the Dambulla Cave Temple, renowned for its impressive Buddha statues.
• Discover the colonial charm of Nuwara Eliya and savor the stunning views along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Colombo to Kandy

From Colombo, the tour begins with a scenic drive to the historic city of Kandy.

Along the way, you’ll stop at the Royal Botanical Garden, where you’ll admire the diverse flora and fauna.

Next, you’ll visit the Kandy Lake Club to witness a captivating cultural dance performance.

The highlight of the day is a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses a sacred tooth of the Buddha.

A visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing a sacred Buddhist relic.

The day concludes with a panoramic view of Kandy from the Kandy View Point, offering a picturesque end to the first day of the tour.

Royal Botanical Garden and Cultural Dance Show

The Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy is the first stop on the tour. Spanning over 147 acres, it’s one of the largest and most diverse botanical gardens in Sri Lanka.

Visitors stroll through lush greenery and vibrant flora, including an impressive collection of orchids.

After the garden, the group heads to the Kandy Lake Club to witness a traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance.

The energetic show features elaborate costumes, rhythmic drumming, and graceful movements that captivate the audience.

This culture provides a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, setting the stage for the journey ahead.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Kandy View Point

Next, the tour visits the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka. Housed within the royal palace complex, this temple enshrines the relic of the tooth of the Buddha.

Travelers marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about the temple’s historical and cultural significance.

Following this, the tour heads to the Kandy View Point, offering panoramic vistas of the city and its picturesque surroundings. Guests can enjoy the scenic landscape and take in the tranquil atmosphere before continuing the journey through Sri Lanka’s central highlands.

Kandy to Sigiriya and Dambulla

After visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and taking in the stunning views from the Kandy View Point, the tour moves on to Sigiriya and Dambulla.

First, the group stops at a spice garden, learning about the cultivation and use of local spices.

Next, they explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient palace built atop a dramatic stone column.

In the afternoon, they head to Minneriya National Park for a safari, spotting elephants and other wildlife.

The day concludes with a visit to the historic Dambulla Cave Temple, home to impressive Buddha statues.

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Spice Garden, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and Minneriya National Park

After leaving Kandy, the tour group makes its way to a local spice garden. They’ll discover how cinnamon, pepper, and other fragrant spices are grown and processed.

Next, they’ll venture to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climbing the 5th-century rock citadel, they’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

In the afternoon, the group journeys to Minneriya National Park for a safari. They’ll have the chance to spot elephants, sambar deer, and other wildlife roaming the park’s grasslands and forests.

Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple is the next stop on the tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features five caves with over 150 Buddha statues, murals, and paintings dating back to the 1st century BCE. Visitors will be in awe as they explore the dramatic rock formations and ancient religious art.

| Cave | Highlights |

|——|————|

| Cave 1 | Largest reclining Buddha statue (15m) |

| Cave 2 | Intricate wall paintings depicting the life of Buddha |

| Cave 3 | Impressive standing Buddha statues in meditation pose |

With its rich history and cultural significance, the Dambulla Cave Temple is a must-see on this Sri Lankan adventure.

Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella

Leaving Kandy behind, the tour now heads east towards the picturesque hill country regions of Nuwara Eliya and Ella. The first stop is Ramboda Waterfall, where travellers can admire the cascading waters.

Next, the group explores the lush tea gardens, learning about the region’s tea production.

Reaching Nuwara Eliya, the tour takes in the serene Gregory Lake and the charming colonial architecture.

Finally, the journey culminates with a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, offering breathtaking views of the misty hills and verdant landscapes.

This day promises a delightful blend of natural wonders and culture.

Ramboda Waterfall, Tea Gardens, and Scenic Train Ride

Ramboda Waterfall, nestled amidst the lush greenery of the hill country, is the first stop on the day’s journey. Visitors can admire the cascading waters and explore the surrounding area. Next, the tour explores Sri Lanka’s renowned tea gardens, where guests can learn about the tea production process and sample the local brew.

| Attraction | Duration | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Ramboda Waterfall | 30 minutes | Scenic views, lush greenery |

| Tea Gardens | 1 hour | Tea production, sampling |

| Scenic Train Ride | 2 hours | Panoramic vistas, winding through tea plantations |

The final highlight is a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya Railway Station to Ella, offering breathtaking views of the tea country landscape.

Common Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There’s no minimum age requirement specified for this tour. However, it’s noted that the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users, so the tour may have an age recommendation or restriction.

Can I Request a Vegetarian/Halal Meal Option?

Yes, travelers can request vegetarian or halal meal options for this tour. The tour operator is accommodating of dietary requirements and will make arrangements to provide suitable meals upon request.

Is This Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

No, this tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues. The tour includes activities that may be challenging for those with back problems or who use wheelchairs, as the itinerary involves extensive walking and climbing at several sites.

Can I Book This Tour for a Larger Group Size?

While the tour is limited to a maximum of 6 participants, larger groups may be accommodated upon request. Clients should check with the tour operator about availability and pricing for larger group sizes.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour can be customized to meet individual preferences. Travelers can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary, activities, and duration based on their interests and needs. Personalized tours are available upon request.

The Sum Up

This 3-day tour from Colombo offers a diverse and unforgettable experience. Travelers will explore the cultural and natural wonders of Kandy, Sigiriya, Ella, and Nuwara Eliya, including iconic landmarks, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. From the sacred Temple of the Tooth to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and scenic train rides, this tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and stunning beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: