Kandy City Tour: UNESCO Heritage City and Temple Visit

The Kandy City Tour offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s captivating UNESCO heritage site. Visitors can witness the rich cultural and historical significance of this enchanting city, from the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic to the serene Peradeniya Botanical Garden. With unique experiences like tea plucking and traditional dance performances, this private tour promises to transport guests into the heart of Sri Lanka’s vibrant heritage. What secrets and treasures await those who venture to this remarkable destination?

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Key Points

Explore the UNESCO heritage city of Kandy, including the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic and its evening Puja ceremony.
Discover the diverse cultural attractions, such as Bahirawakanda Temple, tea plantations, and traditional artisan workshops.
Enjoy a private tour with an English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and bottled water included.
Immerse in cultural experiences like tea plucking, traditional dance shows, and learning about Buddhism.
Plan your visit with clear information on entrance fees, inclusions, and recommendations for a comfortable and memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Kandy City Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the UNESCO heritage city of Kandy and its renowned Temple of the Tooth Relic.

Visitors can explore the UNESCO heritage city of Kandy and its renowned Temple of the Tooth Relic on the Kandy City Tour.

Priced from $30.00 per group (up to 4 people), the 8-hour private tour includes an English-speaking guide and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can choose the "reserve now & pay later" option.

The tour covers key highlights like the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, Bahirawakanda Temple, Pilimathalawa Tea Factory, and more.

Entrance fees for select attractions are additional, ranging from $1.50 to $6 per person.

Want to see more of Kandy? Here are other city tours we've reviewed

Itinerary Highlights

The Kandy City Tour takes visitors on an engaging journey through the cultural and natural wonders of the UNESCO heritage city.

The tour starts with a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, home to over 4,000 plant species. Next, guests explore the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic, witnessing the evening Puja ceremony.

The tour continues to the Bahirawakanda Temple, featuring a towering Buddha statue. At the Pilimathalawa Tea Factory, travelers can participate in tea plucking and learn about Sri Lanka’s tea production.

Other highlights include the Kandy War Cemetery, Gem Museum, and traditional artisan workshops.

Cultural Experiences

As part of the Kandy City Tour, visitors can participate in engaging cultural experiences that provide a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

At the Pilimathalawa Tea Factory, they’ll try their hand at tea plucking, gaining insight into the country’s renowned tea industry.

The tour also includes a vibrant traditional dance show, showcasing the diverse cultural performing arts.

Travelers can deepen their knowledge of Buddhism at the Bahirawakanda Temple and explore the artistic legacies of batik and wood carving at dedicated factories.

These immersive activities offer a memorable culture during the Kandy City Tour.

Entrance Fees and Inclusions

The Kandy City Tour includes a range of inclusions that enhance the overall experience.

The private tour guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and bottled water are all complimentary. Entrance to the Gem Museum, Batik Factory, Herbal & Spice Garden, and Wood Carving Factory are also free for visitors.

However, there are additional costs for visiting the Temple of the Tooth Relic ($6), Bahirawakanda Temple ($1.5), Peradeniya Botanical Garden ($6), and the cultural dance show ($6).

Customers are responsible for personal expenses and souvenirs not included in the tour package.

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Peradeniya Botanical Garden

Spanning over 147 acres, Peradeniya Botanical Garden boasts an impressive collection of over 4,000 species of plants.

Visitors can explore lush greenery, including:

Towering palm trees and exotic flowers
Medicinal plants and herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine
A wide variety of orchids, some endemic to Sri Lanka
The world’s largest collection of Cannonball trees
Stunning lily ponds and scenic walking paths

This serene oasis serves as a hub for botanical research and a popular destination for both travelers and locals alike.

Admission to the garden is included in the Kandy City Tour package.

There's plenty more to explore in Kandy

Temple of the Tooth Relic

After exploring the lush Peradeniya Botanical Garden, the Kandy City Tour takes visitors to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic.

This sacred Buddhist temple houses the relic of the Buddha’s tooth, a highly venerated object of worship. Visitors can witness the evening Puja ceremony, where the relic is honored through chanting, drumming, and rituals.

The temple’s ornate architecture and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination on the tour. Entrance fees apply, and photography is allowed without flash.

Exploring the Temple of the Tooth Relic offers a profound cultural experience.

Bahirawakanda Temple

As visitors depart the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the tour proceeds to the Bahirawakanda Temple, home to a colossal Buddha statue. This impressive landmark offers a profound cultural experience:

The 88-foot-tall white Buddha statue, one of the largest in Sri Lanka, symbolizes the Buddha’s teachings and the island’s deep Buddhist heritage.
Visitors can explore the temple’s intricate architecture and learn about its significance in Kandy’s religious landscape.
Participants may join in daily rituals and observe the devotion of local worshippers, gaining insights into Sri Lankan Buddhist practices.
The temple’s serene atmosphere and panoramic city views provide a moment of tranquility amidst the tour’s vibrant culture.
This stop allows travelers to deepen their understanding of Kandy’s spiritual identity and the role of Buddhism in shaping the region’s history and tradition.

Tips and Recommendations

To make the most of the Kandy City Tour, travelers should come prepared. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated. Photography is welcome, but avoid using flash in the temples. Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited during the tour. Visitors should also be ready at their hotel by 9 AM if they don’t have WhatsApp or email. The tour includes moderate walking, so pacing oneself is advised. Here are some additional tips in a handy table:

| What to Bring | What to Avoid |

|—————|————–|

| Hat | Smoking |

| Camera | Alcohol |

| Sunscreen | Drugs |

| Water | Flash Photos |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The minimum group size for the tour is 1, as it is a private tour. The pricing listed is for a group of up to 4 people, so an individual traveler can book the tour as well.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

The tour can be customized to include additional stops, but this may incur extra costs. Customers should discuss their preferences with the tour provider to ensure the itinerary meets their needs and budget.

Do Visitors Need to Cover Their Shoulders and Knees at Temples?

Visitors should dress conservatively when visiting temples, covering their shoulders and knees. This shows respect for the sacred sites. Appropriate attire is required to enter, and tour guides can provide guidance on proper etiquette.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour can’t be extended, but visitors have the option to add additional activities for an extra fee. The standard 8-hour tour covers the key sights and cultural experiences in Kandy.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Cultural Dance Show?

The cultural dance show does not have any dietary restrictions. Customers can enjoy the performance without any special dietary considerations. However, it’s recommended to inform the tour provider of any allergies or specific dietary needs in advance.

The Sum Up

The Kandy City Tour offers a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO heritage site, immersing visitors in the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Kandy. From witnessing the Temple of the Tooth Relic‘s evening Puja ceremony to experiencing tea plucking and traditional dance, this private tour provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of the island’s heritage, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s vibrant and storied past.

You can check availability for your dates here: