Ambuluwawa Tower & Kandy Culture and Nature Private Day Tour
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Kandy's rich cultural and natural heritage on the Ambuluwawa Heights Private Tour. Ascend the Ambuluwawa Tower for stunning panoramic views, explore the lush Royal Botanical Garden Peradeniya, and witness the fascinating tea production process at a local factory. Delve into Kandy’s vibrant culture with a dance show and visit key sites like the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the National Gem and Geological Museum. Conclude your adventure with flexible drop-off options, either at your hotel or in the city center for further exploration.
-Choose between a Tuk-Tuk or Van for your journey, based on your comfort and group size
- Panoramic views from Ambuluwawa Tower and scenic Kandy viewpoints
- Experience local culture with a Kandy Dance Show and Temple of the Tooth
- Visit the Royal Botanical Garden, Tea Factory, and Spice Garden
- Flexible drop-off at your hotel or central Kandy for more exploration
Available options
Van Option (3-7 People)
Van<br/>Pickup included
Tuk-Tuk Option
Tuk-Tuk<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Asgiri Maha Viharaya is a Buddhist monastery located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is the headquarters of the Asgiriya chapter of Siyam Nikaya,
2
Sri Lanka is one of the highest producers of tea in the world and if you are traveling in Sri Lanka, visiting a tea plantation is a must. The best place to go is the hill country near Nuwara Eliya and Ella – where the majority of the plantations are located. Giragama is one of the premium tea plantations in the country.
3
At Peradeniya Botanical Garden, travelers will wander through 147 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, home to over 4,000 species of plants. The garden is famous for its Orchid House, towering palm avenues, and giant Javan fig tree. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk while discovering exotic flora, manicured lawns, and colorful flowerbeds, all while learning about the garden's rich botanical history. It's a serene escape into nature, offering both relaxation and stunning scenery.
4
At Ambuluwawa Tower, travelers will ascend a striking multi-spiral tower perched atop a mountain, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the lush countryside, distant hills, and nearby towns. The climb to the top is thrilling, with each level revealing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of the Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex, which houses religious shrines and a variety of plants. This stop combines adventure, nature, and spirituality, making it a highlight of the tour.
5
Stop 5
At the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, travelers will explore one of Sri Lanka's most sacred and historic sites, housing a revered relic of Lord Buddha's tooth. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning architecture, vibrant ceremonies, and deep spiritual significance. Visitors can immerse themselves in Buddhist rituals, admire intricate carvings and frescoes, and experience the rich cultural heritage of Kandy.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Kandy
Kandy, the last royal capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Nestled in the hills, it offers a cooler climate and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination.
Top Attractions
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
This temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. It's a major attraction for both locals and tourists.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake)
A picturesque lake in the heart of Kandy, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic sites.
Nature
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (boat rides may have a small fee)
Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
One of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia, featuring a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers. It's a great place for nature lovers and photographers.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
A forest reserve adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth, offering a peaceful retreat with walking trails, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (small fee for guided tours)
Kandy Esala Perahera
A grand festival held annually in August, featuring a vibrant procession of dancers, drummers, and elegantly decorated elephants. It's one of the most famous cultural events in Sri Lanka.
Cultural
Multiple days
Free (special seating may have a fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.
Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
Rice and Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
Hoppers (Appa)
A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center.
Breakfast/Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
String Hoppers (Idiyappa)
A traditional dish made from rice flour and coconut milk, steamed to form a bowl-like shape, often served with coconut sambal.
Breakfast/Lunch
Vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Elephant watching
Tea plantation tours
Boat rides on Kandy Lake
Tea tasting
Spas and wellness centers
Visiting temples and historic sites
Attending cultural performances
Best Time to Visit
January to April
This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The Esala Perahera festival in August is a major highlight.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kandy is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranayake International Airport • 100 km
By train
Kandy Railway Station
By bus
Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Kandy. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable for long journeys.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Kandy
Peradeniya
Daluwala
Day trips
Nuwara Eliya
65 km • Full day
Known as 'Little England' for its colonial architecture and cool climate, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque town surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.
Sigiriya
100 km • Full day
Home to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The climb to the top offers stunning views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history.
Dambulla
80 km • Full day
Home to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five beautifully decorated caves with numerous Buddha statues and murals.
Festivals
Esala Perahera • August
Vesak • May (date varies)
Kandy Perehera • August (following the Esala Perahera)
Pro tips
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- Take the scenic train journey from Colombo to Kandy for a memorable experience.
- Try local street food like kottu roti and wood apple juice for an authentic culinary experience.
- Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of Kandy's history and culture.
- Attend a cultural dance show to experience the rich traditions and heritage of the region.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
