Sri Lanka · UNESCO Heritage Sites

3-Day Sri Lanka Highlights Tour with Kandy, Dambulla and Sigiriya

3 Days Round trip from Kandy Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Witness majestic elephants up close at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
  • 02 Stroll through the lush Peradeniya Botanical Garden
  • 03 Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the Temple of the Tooth
  • 04 Explore Kandy's rich history and vibrant culture on a city tour
  • 05 Experience Sri Lanka's cultural heritage through a Traditional Dancing Show

Join this 3-day adventure through Sri Lanka's cultural and historical highlights, from Kandy to Sigiriya and back to Colombo. Encounter majestic elephants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, stroll through the lush Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and visit sacred sites such as the Temple of the Tooth and the Dambulla Cave Temple. Explore Kandy's captivating landmarks, enjoy a mesmerizing Traditional Dancing Show, and discover the ancient wonders of Sigiriya Lion Rock and Pidurangala Rock. This journey offers a rich blend of heritage, spirituality, nature, and culture.

Your first stop is the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can witness the majestic elephants up close and even participate in feeding and bathing them.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Colombo, Kandy, Dambulla, Matale, Sigiriya, Pinnawala
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Colombo to Kandy via Pinnawala and Peradeniya

  • On the first day, start your adventure in Colombo and make your way to the enchanting city of Kandy. Along the way, there are several must-visit places that you'll have the opportunity to explore.
  • Your first stop is the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can witness the majestic elephants up close and even participate in feeding and bathing them. It's an incredible experience that will leave you in awe of these gentle giants.
  • Next, you'll visit the breathtaking Peradeniya Botanical Garden, a paradise of lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden, marvel at the diverse plant species, and relax in the serene surroundings.
  • No visit to Kandy is complete without paying a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred Buddhist temple that houses a relic of the Buddha's tooth. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and admire the beautiful architecture and intricate detailing of the temple.
  • Afterwards, go on a fascinating Kandy City Tour, where you'll have the chance to explore the Old English Market, the Old Prison, Kandy Lake, and many other captivating landmarks. You'll see the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
  • In the evening, get ready to be entertained by a mesmerizing Traditional Dancing Show. Experience the rhythmic beats, vibrant costumes, and graceful movements as the dancers showcase Sri Lanka's cultural heritage through their performances.

At the end of an eventful day, drive to Kandy, where you'll spend the night and rest up for the next day's adventures.

2
Day 02

Kandy to Sigiriya via Matale and Dambulla

  • Get ready for another exciting day as you leave Kandy and head to the historic town of Sigiriya. Along the way, you'll stop at several fascinating places that will captivate your imagination.
  • Your first stop is the Matale Hindu Temple, a place of worship that showcases the architectural splendour of Hindu temples. Marvel at the intricate carvings and vibrant decorations as you learn about Hindu religious traditions.
  • Next, visit the Nalanda Gedige at Matale, an ancient archaeological site that reflects the influence of both Hindu and Buddhist architectural styles. Explore the ruins and soak in the historical significance of this fascinating place.
  • Continuing your journey, go to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the magnificent rock cave temples adorned with colourful frescoes and numerous statues of Buddha. It's a truly awe-inspiring sight that will leave you in wonder.
  • Now proceed to the Dambulla Golden Temple, a sacred Buddhist temple known for its golden statue of Buddha and stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • As you approach Sigiriya, pass by the picturesque Kandalama Lake, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of nature and capture some breathtaking photographs.

For the night, we'll arrange an overnight stay in Sigiriya, where you can relax and recharge for the final day of your tour.

3
Day 03

Sigiriya Highlights and Return to Colombo

  • On the last day of your tour, explore the magnificent sights around Sigiriya before returning to Colombo.
  • Your first stop is the majestic Pidurangala Rock near the famous Sigiriya Lion Rock. Embark on a moderate hike to the top of Pidurangala Rock and be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
  • Next, visit the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, an ancient rock fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb the rock and discover the remnants of an ancient palace, intricate frescoes, and the mesmerizing Lion Gate. The top views are breathtaking, providing a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history.
  • After an unforgettable experience at Sigiriya, return to Colombo. Your driver will drop you off at your hotel in Colombo.
Pidurangala Rock, Sigiriya Lion Rock, Kandalama Lake, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Where this trip takes you

Pidurangala Rock, Sigiriya Lion Rock, Kandalama Lake, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kandy 6 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private Driver
  • Guidance to Locations
  • Air-conditioned Vehicle

What's Not Included

  • Accommodations
  • Entrance fees to sites
  • Meals

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kandy, Sri Lanka
Tour start
Kandy, Sri Lanka
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 3 days finish where they began, in Kandy.

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