After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a leisurely morning in the charming highland city of Kandy. Nestled among forested hills and tea plantations, Kandy is a cultural gem and the spiritual heart of the island. Today’s pace is relaxed, giving you time to absorb the atmosphere or choose from enriching optional experiences that add depth to your Sri Lanka highlights tour.
For those with a love for nature, you may opt to visit the famed Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, just a short drive from Kandy. These exquisite gardens are Sri Lanka’s largest and most impressive, home to over 4,000 plant species, including a world-renowned collection of orchids. Stroll through tree-lined avenues, towering palms, vibrant floral beds, and spice groves as tropical birds flutter above. The gardens were once reserved exclusively for Kandyan royalty — today, they remain a place of serenity and natural splendour.
This optional experience can be selected during the online booking process under the “Add Ons” section.
In the afternoon, take part in a relaxed sightseeing tour of Kandy. Discover the city's colonial charm, bustling markets, and tranquil lakeside setting. Your guide will reveal the stories behind the architecture, legends of the last Sinhalese kings, and the continuing importance of Buddhism in local life.
As evening falls, enjoy a captivating Kandyan cultural dance show, a visual feast of rhythmic drumming, vibrant costumes, and traditional dance styles rooted in centuries-old rituals. These performances echo the ancient agricultural traditions and folk beliefs of the island, dating back to a time long before the introduction of Buddhism. With fire-dancing, mask performances, and elaborate storytelling, the show offers a vivid connection to Sri Lanka’s deep cultural heritage.
Afterwards, return to your hotel, or for those seeking a culinary experience, take part in our optional Sri Lankan cooking demonstration at the delightful Thotupala Residency. This hands-on class offers insight into authentic local cuisine — learn the art of preparing classic dishes using fresh herbs, spices, grated coconut, and locally sourced vegetables. Guided by a local chef, you’ll create a vibrant meal bursting with flavour and tradition — a true taste of Sri Lanka to take home with you.
This optional experience can be selected during the online booking process under the “Add Ons” section.
Return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay, surrounded by the cultural richness, cool highland air, and gentle charm of Kandy’s mountain serenity. Dinner included and overnight at Amaya Hills or similar.
Rating: 5 / 5 NeilWilson79 Fri, 2 Dec, 16
“Fascinating tour of Sri Lanka.”
My Sri Lanka holiday was fascinating. A truly great holiday.
The driver, Jerome, was superb. Knowledgeable and a safe, competent driver he showed me the wonders of this marvellous country. The sight seeing was terrific. Wildlife, ancient ruins and fabulous scenery. Plains, mountains and lovely Welligama on the beach.
Most of the hotels were great. It was disappointing that on my first 2 nights MPS Resort in Dambullah had overbooked and I was shuffled off to a very so so place next door. My 3rd night was much better with a nice room and lovely views.
I was a little surprised that some of the hotels did not have a drinks licence. A cold beer after a long, thrilling day would have been nice!
The Magpie in Sinharaja was not very good, but we were in the jungle, so it didn’t matter.
I could make some other minor criticisms, but that would be churlish; overall it was a fantastic holiday. I will return to Sri Lanka one day, and would be happy for you to make the arrangements when I do.
Thank you for a brilliant holiday.
Visited In August 2016