Day trip

From Kandy: Mahiyanganya and Dambana Day Trip

Activity provider: Lakpura LLC
Day trip

From Kandy: Mahiyanganya and Dambana Day Trip

Activity provider: Lakpura LLC

From US$ 146 per person

Drive along one of the world's most notorious roads, be by impressed ancient reservoirs, stop by the site of Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka, and visit tribal villages on this day trip from Kandy.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Covid-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 8 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Pickup included
Pickup is available within 5-kilometers of the Kandy area.
Small group
Limited to 8 participants

Experience

Highlights
  • Take a tour of Mahiyangana Temple
  • Get to know the locals at Dambana Veddah village
  • Drive along the famous 18 Bend Road
Full description
Begin you tour at 7:00 AM with a pickup from your guide. First, drive along the famous 18 Bend Road to Mahiyangana. 18 Bend Road is known for being one of the most dangerous and spectacular roads in the world. While the recent road renovations have widened the road therefor reducing the danger factor, it still remains an amazing experience with dramatic views over the valley of Mahiyangana. Your first stop lies within the valley and is of great archaeological value. Sorabora Wewa, also known as the Sea of Bintenna, is an ancient reservoir believed to have been constructed over two millennia ago. Created by damming Diyawanna Oya with a 485-meter embankment, the reservoir uses the natural rock around it to its advantage to form a channel that acts as a sluice gate. Observe this unique sluice gate as you walk along the embankment. Afterward, head to Ulhitiya Reservoir, one of the most important reservoirs in the area. Formed by the damming of Ulhitiya Oya, it is a tributary of Mahaweli River. After learning more about the history of this reservoir, continue on to Mahiyangana. Reach this historic city at about 9:30 AM. Hear about how Mahiyangana is said to be the site of Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka. Visit Mahiyangana Temple and learn about its history and development starting from before 543 BC to the present day. See how the temple continues to be a place of tranquility and peace.  At approximately 10:00 AM start your hike to the Dambana Veddah village. Arrive after about 30-minutes and be introduced to the community of locals and see their rustic homes and lifestyles. Learn how these tribes hunt and farm to sustain themselves. Have the opportunity to join a short hunt if you desire or examine their longbows and arrows.   Leave the village at 12:30 PM and return to Mahiyangana. Have some lunch before returning to your hotel, arriving at about 3:00 PM.
Includes
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • English-speaking driver and guide
  • Entrance fees
  • 1-liter of bottled mineral water per person
  • All taxes and service charges
  • Food or drinks
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities
Not suitable for
  • Wheelchair users

Select participants and date

Participants

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Important information

Not allowed

  • Pets
  • Oversize luggage

Product ID: 256067