From Nuwara Eliya: Full Day to Kandy With Ambuluwawa Tower

Set out on a captivating full-day tour from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy. This guided experience showcases the breathtaking Ambuluwawa Tower at 3,567 feet, the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the enchanting Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Witness the scenic drive through Sri Lanka’s picturesque tea country, all while accompanied by an English-speaking guide. With a price of £77.25 per person, this tour promises unforgettable memories and breathtaking views. Explore the cultural and historical significance of these remarkable sites as you explore the wonders of Sri Lanka.

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Key Points

This full-day guided tour from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy includes visits to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Ambuluwawa Tower, and Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
The tour is priced at £77.25 per person, with pickup from Nuwara Eliya hotels, an English-speaking guide, and private transportation with all taxes included.
The Ambuluwawa Tower, at an elevation of 3,567 feet, offers panoramic views and is accessible via a scenic drive through the countryside.
The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their extensive orchid collection and serene ambiance.
The tour duration is 8 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day guided tour takes visitors from Nuwara Eliya to the historic city of Kandy. Priced at £77.25 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Guests can choose the reserve now & pay later option. The tour includes pickup from all Nuwara Eliya hotels, an English-speaking guide, and transportation by private vehicle.

Fuel, driver charges, and parking fees are covered, along with complimentary refreshments and water. All government taxes are included in the price.

Looking for more options in Nuwara Eliya? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The key attractions on this tour include the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s an important Buddhist pilgrimage destination.

Other highlights are:

Ambuluwawa Tower, standing at 3,567 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views.
Ramboda Falls, a 109-meter-high waterfall surrounded by lush tea plantations.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, another UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its orchid collection.
Bahirawakanda Temple, a serene hilltop shrine with beautiful architecture.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Sri Lanka’s iconic tea country and local cultural sites.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

One of the key highlights of the tour is a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is highly revered by Buddhists as it houses the sacred tooth relic of Buddha. Visitors can witness the relic during daily rituals and cultural ceremonies. The temple’s architecture blends Kandyan and colonial influences, creating a unique and picturesque setting.

| Significance | Features | Importance |

| — | — | — |

| Spiritual center | Elaborate architecture | Buddhist pilgrimage site |

| Holds Buddha’s tooth | Daily rituals and ceremonies | Reflects Kandy’s history |

| UNESCO World Heritage | Striking location | Cultural and religious significance |

| Kandyan and colonial styles | Iconic landmark | Draws travelers worldwide |

Ambuluwawa Tower

Ambuluwawa Tower stands tall at an impressive elevation of 3,567 feet above sea level, offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

The tower:

Provides 360-degree vistas of Nuwara Eliya’s rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and distant mountain ranges.
Features an observation deck and a small museum highlighting the area’s natural and cultural heritage.
Is accessible via a scenic drive through picturesque countryside, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s tranquil ambiance.
Serves as a popular spot for hiking, photography, and birdwatching, attracting both local and international visitors.

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Ramboda Falls

Ramboda Falls, at 109 meters (358 feet) high, cascades down a steep rock face, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.

The falls are situated in the heart of Sri Lanka’s verdant tea country, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills.

Visitors can admire the powerful cascade from various viewpoints, marveling at the sheer volume of water rushing over the rocks.

The area around the falls is also home to a small temple, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich religious heritage.

With its scenic beauty and cultural significance, Ramboda Falls is a must-see attraction on the Kandy tour itinerary.

There's plenty more to explore in Nuwara Eliya

Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boast a rich history dating back to 1371.

The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boast a rich history dating back to 1371.

This sprawling 147-acre garden is renowned for its extensive orchid collection, diverse plant species, and picturesque landscapes.

Visitors can explore:

The Orchid House, home to over 300 species of orchids.
The Palm Avenue, featuring over 50 species of palms.
The Canopy Walkway, offering stunning views of the gardens.
The Queen Victoria’s Fountain, a centerpiece of the gardens.

The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens provide a serene and educational experience, showcasing Sri Lanka’s botanical heritage.

Bahirawakanda Temple

Perched atop a hilltop, the Bahirawakanda Temple commands a stunning panoramic view of Kandy and its surrounding hills. This Buddhist temple is known for its impressive white stupa and ornate carvings.

Visitors can explore the temple’s shrines and appreciate the intricate architecture. The temple is an important spiritual site, attracting locals and travelers alike who come to pay their respects.

On the temple grounds, you’ll find a bodhi tree which is said to have been grown from a sapling of the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. This tranquil spot offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city below.

Cultural and Historical Significance

As Sri Lanka’s religious and administrative capital, Kandy holds immense cultural and historical significance.

This ancient city is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site housing a sacred relic of the Buddha.

The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, with roots dating back to 1371, are renowned for their diverse orchid collection and rich history.

The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens boast a rich history dating back to 1371 and a renowned diverse orchid collection.

Kandy also offers insights into the region’s colonial past and vibrant arts and crafts.

Visitors can explore these captivating cultural attractions and enjoy the city’s deep-rooted heritage.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens: Rich history dating back to 1371, known for its orchid collection.
Colonial history: Insights into Kandy’s past under colonial rule.
Vibrant arts and crafts: Explore the city’s thriving creative culture.

Common Questions

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Religious Sites?

When visiting religious sites, it’s recommended to wear modest, conservative clothing. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops should be avoided out of respect for local customs and traditions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour includes complimentary refreshments and water, but travelers can’t bring their own food and drinks. Respect local customs by avoiding smoking and flash photography at religious sites.

Is There a Tour With Fewer Attractions but Longer at Each Site?

The tour offers a more focused itinerary with extended time at fewer key attractions. This allows visitors to explore the sites in-depth and enjoy the cultural and historical significance of each location.

Do I Need a Permit to Take Photos or Videos at the Sites?

Photography and video recording are generally allowed at the sites, but visitors must respect local customs and traditions. Some restrictions, such as prohibiting flash photography, may apply at certain religious sites. It’s best to check with the guide for specific guidelines.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Places of Interest?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit additional places of interest. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour guide, who’ll be happy to customize the itinerary within the allotted time frame and budget.

The Sum Up

This captivating full-day tour from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors will be awestruck by the breathtaking Ambuluwawa Tower, the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the stunning Ramboda Falls, and the enchanting Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. The scenic drive through Sri Lanka’s picturesque tea country, accompanied by an English-speaking guide, ensures an immersive cultural and historical journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: