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North Central ProvinceBus & minivan tours

Our most recommended North Central Province Bus & minivan tours

Dambulla: Cave Temple & Hiriwadunna Village tour with Lunch

1. Dambulla: Cave Temple & Hiriwadunna Village tour with Lunch

08.00 am: Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel, and you'll be heading to the Dambulla Cave Temple 09.00am: Visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The rock rises 160 meters above the surrounding area and houses over 80 caves. Among these caves, five contain fascinating statues and murals that depict the life of Gautama Buddha. The caves boast 153 Buddha statues, three Sri Lankan king statues, and statues of various gods and goddesses, including Vishnu and Ganesha. The stunning murals, covering an area of 2,100 square meters, add to the temple's grandeur. 11.30: Get ready for a delightful Hiriwadunna Village tour, followed by an authentic Sri Lankan lunch. Your village experience begins with a bullock cart ride near the village pond and continues with a boat ride to the other side of the serene rural community. Embrace the picturesque landscape of scrub jungle, marshlands, and agricultural farms that surround this charming hamlet. A short stroll through the paddy fields and vegetable plantations leads you to a traditional village house. There, you'll savor an authentic Sri Lankan lunch, a true culinary delight. 13.30: With the village tour and lunch complete, it's time to head back to your hotel, where you started this incredible journey. The memories of your day spent exploring the historical Dambulla Cave Temple and experiencing the rustic charm of Hiriwadunna Village, along with the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine, will surely stay with you for a lifetime.

From Colombo: Three Ancient Kingdoms Tour

2. From Colombo: Three Ancient Kingdoms Tour

You will be starting your tour at 6:00 am when you get picked up from your hotel in Colombo. You will be taking 2 hours to travel to your first destination, Dambadeniya. It is recommended that you bring a packed breakfast with you to eat on the way. The kingdom of Dambadeniya was at its peak during the mid-thirteenth century, especially during the reign of King Parakramabahu II. He was a peaceful king who brought Sinhalese literature to new heights with his epic poetic masterpieces ‘Kavisilumina’ and ‘Visuddi Marga Sannasa’. You will get to see the recently excavated remains of the old Temple of the Tooth, where the Tooth Relic was housed previously, and the ruins of the royal palace complex with its gardens, walls, and moats. You will leave for Yapahuwa at 9:00 am. You will get there by 10:30 am. Yapahuwa was the capital of Sri Lanka right after Dambadeniya when the Dravidians invaded. The fortress was built on a giant rock in the style of the Sigiriya rock fortress. However, the architecture of this fortress is completely different from Sigiriya with wide staircases, beautiful stone sculptures and highly detailed carvings on pillars. The fortress was later used as a monastery by Buddhist monks. On your visit, you will be able to climb to the fortress and view the ruins of the stupa on the summit of the rock. The stupa has some notable statues and imagery from the Kandyan era that you can peruse. You will be spending a couple of hours at Yapahuwa. After this, you can spend some time having lunch at one of the good restaurants in the area. The drive to your final destination, Panduwasnuwara, will take up to an hour and a half. The ancient city was one of the first kingdoms of Sri Lanka, having been the capital during the 5th century BC. The site was used much later in the 12th century as well, resulting in a mix of ruins from various periods. The ruins are spread over an area of almost 12 hectares. Some of the most notable sights are the recently restored monument that was the two-storied former Temple of the Tooth, ruins of the royal palace and the artificial reservoir Panda Wewa that is considered one of the earliest irrigation systems ever made by man. You will also be visiting the museum of Panduwasnuwara, which has many archeological finds from excavations in the area. You will be spending an hour and a half in Panduwasnuwara.

Kandy: Dambulla Cave Temple & Hiriwadunna Village tour

3. Kandy: Dambulla Cave Temple & Hiriwadunna Village tour

06.00 am: Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel, and you'll be heading to the Dambulla Cave Temple 09.30am: Visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The rock rises 160 meters above the surrounding area and houses over 80 caves. Among these caves, five contain fascinating statues and murals that depict the life of Gautama Buddha. The caves boast 153 Buddha statues, three Sri Lankan king statues, and statues of various gods and goddesses, including Vishnu and Ganesha. The stunning murals, covering an area of 2,100 square meters, add to the temple's grandeur. 12.00: Get ready for a delightful Hiriwadunna Village tour, followed by an authentic Sri Lankan lunch. Your village experience begins with a bullock cart ride near the village pond and continues with a boat ride to the other side of the serene rural community. Embrace the picturesque landscape of scrub jungle, marshlands, and agricultural farms that surround this charming hamlet. A short stroll through the paddy fields and vegetable plantations leads you to a traditional village house. There, you'll savor an authentic Sri Lankan lunch, a true culinary delight. 13.30: With the village tour and lunch complete, it's time to head back to your hotel, where you started this incredible journey. The memories of your day spent exploring the historical Dambulla Cave Temple and experiencing the rustic charm of Hiriwadunna Village, along with the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine, will surely stay with you for a lifetime.

Anuradhapura: Archaeological Site Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour

4. Anuradhapura: Archaeological Site Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour

Admire the wonders of the Anuradhapura archaeological site on a guided tuk-tuk tour. See palaces, religious sites, artwork, and more. Get picked up at your hotel in Anuradhapura and take a tuk-tuk to the archaeological site. Explore this sacred pilgrimage spot and admire the monuments. See the sacred Bo tree, where the Buddha is said to have achieved enlightenment. It was brought to Sri Lanka by a princess in the year 228 BC. Next, visit the Ruwanvelisaya stupa, which houses many Buddhist relics. After, see the Abhayagiri Vihara monastery and Thuparamaya Temple. Learn about the craftsmanship and artistry that went into creating the palaces and works of art and have a look at the impressive irrigation system that once served Anuradhapura. Get dropped off back at your hotel at the end of your tour.

From Anuradhapura: Full Day Safari at Wilpattu National Park

5. From Anuradhapura: Full Day Safari at Wilpattu National Park

05.30 am: Begin your adventure with a pick-up from your hotel in Anuradhapura/ Wilpattu, as you prepare to embark on an exciting journey to Wilpattu National Park. 06.00 am: Experience a thrilling full-day safari at Wilpattu National Park, renowned for its high leopard density and vast size of 130,000 hectares. The safari, lasting approximately 7 to 8 hours, offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Sri Lanka's largest and historically significant national parks. Wilpattu is famous worldwide for its leopard population, and its safari experience sets it apart from other national parks. The park's distinguishing feature is the presence of "Willus" (Natural lakes), which add to the park's wilderness ambiance. Keep an eye out for sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, and wild pigs, as they are frequently spotted during the safari. Throughout the day, water bottles and light cuisine will be provided to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. 05.00 pm: As the safari concludes, make your way back to your hotel in Anuradhapura, relishing the memories of an exhilarating day spent amidst the natural wonders of Wilpattu National Park.

Kaudulla National Park Safari Game Drive

6. Kaudulla National Park Safari Game Drive

Welcome to the enchanting wilderness of Sri Lanka's Kaudulla National Park! Embark on an exhilarating Safari Day Tour that promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife of this natural paradise. Nestled in the heart of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, Kaudulla National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados alike. Boasting an impressive array of flora and fauna, this park offers a unique opportunity to witness the majesty of nature up close and personal. As we set off on our thrilling safari, be prepared to be awe-struck by the iconic sight of wild elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat. Kaudulla is renowned for its large gatherings of elephants, creating a mesmerizing spectacle as they bathe, graze, and interact with each other, providing an unparalleled wildlife experience. However, the wonders of Kaudulla National Park extend far beyond elephants. Keep your cameras at the ready to capture glimpses of graceful deer, elusive leopards, colorful birdlife, and a plethora of other fascinating creatures that call this sanctuary their home. Our experienced and knowledgeable safari guides will accompany us throughout the journey, imparting valuable insights into the park's ecology, history, and conservation efforts. They possess an intimate understanding of the animals' behavior, ensuring we have the best chances of encountering a diverse range of wildlife in their natural element. As we venture deeper into the wilderness, you'll find yourself captivated by the untouched beauty of the park's lush forests, serene lakes, and expansive grasslands. The sense of tranquility and harmony with nature is simply unparalleled. So, whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking an extraordinary escapade, the Kaudulla National Park Safari Day Tour promises an unforgettable expedition into the heart of Sri Lanka's untamed beauty. Join us for an experience that will undoubtedly leave you with cherished memories to last a lifetime. Let's embark on this extraordinary journey together!

From colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Private Full-Day Tour

7. From colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Private Full-Day Tour

The one-day tour you're looking for includes visits to Dhambulla Golden Cave Temple, Sigiriya, and a village tour, with a stop at Minnariya National Park. The tour begins by heading to Dhambulla Golden Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This temple complex is located in the town of Dhambulla and is known for its stunning cave temples. Inside the caves, you'll find a collection of beautifully preserved ancient Buddhist statues and intricate wall paintings. After exploring Dhambulla Golden Cave Temple, the tour proceeds to Sigiriya, also known as the "Lion Rock." Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress situated on top of a large rock plateau. As you ascend to the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The site also features the remnants of an ancient palace, water gardens, and frescoes that depict celestial maidens known as the "Sigiriya Maidens." Next, the tour takes you on a village tour, providing an opportunity to experience the traditional Sri Lankan way of life. You'll visit a local village and have the chance to interact with the locals, learn about their customs, and witness traditional activities like farming and cooking. This immersive experience will give you a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Minnariya National Park. This park is famous for its large population of wild elephants and is known as one of the best places in Sri Lanka for elephant sightings. You'll embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the park, allowing you to get up close to these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Apart from elephants, Minnariya National Park is also home to various other wildlife species such as deer, buffaloes, crocodiles, and a wide variety of bird species. This one-day tour provides a perfect blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and wildlife encounters, giving you a comprehensive experience of Sri Lanka's rich heritage and natural wonders.

Habarana: Guided Birdwatching Tour

8. Habarana: Guided Birdwatching Tour

Get up close and personal with Sri Lanka's rare birds on this guided excursion to Habarana Lake, one of the region's best birdwatching locations. Meet your guide at your hotel in Habarana and journey along the banks of the lake as you inspect the surrounding area to catch glimpses of resident and migratory birds that call the lake home. Your expert guide will help you to spot as many species as possible. Make use of the binoculars and telescope provide to see the birds more clearly. See up to 120 different species, including the Sri Lankan Grey Hornbill, Sri Lankan Green Pigeon, Coppersmith Barbet, Crested Tree Swift, and many more.

From Negombo: Elephant Foundation and Kandy Town Tour

9. From Negombo: Elephant Foundation and Kandy Town Tour

Journey from Negombo to see the elephants at the Millennium Elephant Foundation, stroll through the flowers at the Royal Botanical Gardens, and see the fascinating wonders in Kandy Town on this private tour. Start by being greeted by your driver as you are picked up for your tour at 6:30 AM. Learn more about elephants at the Millennium Elephant Foundation. Play with and feed baby elephants, and watch the elephants bathe.  Next, at around 11:30 AM visit the world-renowned Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya and see the largest collection of orchids in Asia. Then, head to Kandy Town at approximately 2:30 PM, and have lunch at a place of your choosing.  After lunch, enjoy some technical arts tours related to gem crafting and woodcarving. Go into the Temple of the Tooth Relic at 5:00 PM and walk through the elaborately decorated temple. Head back to in Negombo at 6:30 and stop at a place of your choice to have dinner.

All Inclusive 03 in 01 Day Trips Sigiriya Galle Kandy

10. All Inclusive 03 in 01 Day Trips Sigiriya Galle Kandy

Galle Day tour - After being picked up at your hotel, hop onboard your Madu Ganga Magrove boat safari and explore the Madu River. See the mangrove forests and marshlands that surround the river. Stop at a cinnamon garden, and try some of the area’s famous cinnamon. The Madu Ganga River region is home to some of the best quality cinnamon in the world as well as a flourishing cinnamon industry. Afterward, marvel at the fishermen who stoically sit atop large branches planted in the middle of the water waiting for their catch. Continue to a local Turtle Hatchery, where your guide will introduce you to the many local varieties of turtles. End your tour with a visit to the Galle Fort, a Unesco World Heritage Site. This fort illustrates the unique interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries. After discovering the fort, you will be returned to your hotel in Colombo. Kandy Day tour - Your first destination in the city will be the Temple of the Tooth. The Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha has had much importance throughout the history of Sri Lanka. Being able to protect it and enshrine it was not only regarded as a symbol of piousness, but also a symbol of status that proved the worthiness of the ancient kings of the country. View the beautiful architecture of the palace and look at the many golden figurines in the shrine. You will also visit the Iragama Tea Factory, Spice Garden, Gem Museum, and a viewpoint of Kandy.  The Royal Botanical Gardens is 147-acre premises hosting over 4000 species of plants, including an exclusive collection of orchids, spices, and medicinal plants. Created early in the 19th-century, the gardens have a significant amount of history that you will learn more about during your tour. You will see famed plants such as the Cannonball Tree, the Giant Gavan Fig tree, and the 40 meter tall Burma bamboo. Sigiriya Day Tour - Depart Colombo and travel by a shared vehicle, in a small group, to the city of Sigiriya, and head directly to Sigiriya Rock on arrival. Gaze in awe at the massive column of rock that, according to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle The Culavamsa, was selected by King Kassyapa as the site of his new capital. Admire numerous paintings of historic queens, princesses, and maids inside the rock fortress before getting a break for lunch at your own expense. Then, explore some of the traditional crafts of the region, such as wood carving and batik textiles, with time to purchase souvenirs before departing. Start the journey back towards Colombo via Dambulla to explore the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Discover the magnificent Buddha images and rock paintings of vivid colors and different shapes, painted from around the 2nd century B.C. up to the 18th-century Kandyan era.

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