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Sabaragamuwa ProvinceCulture & history

Our most recommended Sabaragamuwa Province Culture & history

From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip

1. From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip

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.

Kaudulla National Park Half Day Sri Lanka Jeep Safari

2. Kaudulla National Park Half Day Sri Lanka Jeep Safari

Embark on a thrilling adventure through the heart of Sri Lanka's wild landscapes with our Kaudulla National Park Safari. This unforgettable experience begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in the enchanting areas of Dambulla, Kandalama, Sigiriya, or Habarana. Our friendly and knowledgeable guide will ensure your journey is comfortable and informative from start to finish. As you set off towards Kaudulla National Park, you'll receive complimentary water bottles to keep you refreshed throughout the day. The park, located in the heart of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, promises an awe-inspiring encounter with the region's diverse and captivating wildlife. The main highlight of this safari is the spectacular Elephant Gathering, a mesmerizing phenomenon that occurs during the dry season when large herds of elephants congregate around the Kaudulla Tank. Witness these majestic giants in their natural habitat, an experience that is sure to leave you in awe. However, the wonders of Kaudulla extend far beyond the elephants. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of other animals that call this lush jungle home, including crocodiles basking in the sun, graceful deer grazing in the meadows, majestic eagles soaring high above, mischievous monkeys swinging through the trees, and elusive water monitors gliding through the waterways. The park is also a bird lover's paradise, with a plethora of colorful avian species filling the skies and trees with their melodious calls. Our safari lasts for approximately three hours, allowing ample time to explore the park's diverse landscapes and encounter its remarkable inhabitants. Our experienced guides are well-versed in the park's ecology and will provide fascinating insights into the behaviors and habitats of the animals you encounter. After an exhilarating journey through Kaudulla National Park, we will safely transport you back to your hotel, ensuring your return is as comfortable and convenient as your arrival. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Sri Lanka's wildlife with our Kaudulla National Park Safari, a journey that promises unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of this remarkable island nation. #srilankajeepsafari #safarisrilanka #srilankasafari #kaudullanationalpark #kaudullasafari #elephantgathering

Dambulla:Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Dambulla Cave Temple tour

3. Dambulla:Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Dambulla Cave Temple tour

Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel, and you'll be heading to the captivating destination of Sigiriya. Prepare to be amazed as you climb and explore the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This ancient marvel, built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century, stands proudly 660 feet high. Located in Sri Lanka's central province, near Dambulla, in the northern Matale district, this fortress is often referred to as the Lion's Rock or Sinhagiri. Ascend the 1200 steps to the top and marvel at this Unesco World Heritage Site, considered one of the Wonders of the World. The ingenious water garden irrigation and the remarkable lion carving at the entrance, which is still well-preserved, showcase the advanced architectural and engineering skills of the time. The well-designed ramparts and moats surrounding the rock serve as a testament to the fortress's formidable defense. Next, you'll 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. With the Dambulla Cave Temple exploration 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 wonders of Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the cultural richness of Dambulla Cave Temple will surely stay with you for a lifetime. After the Sigiriya & Dambulla adventure, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before leave back to your hotel

Kandy: Experience the city like a local on a TukTuk

4. Kandy: Experience the city like a local on a TukTuk

I’d be honored to be your guide showing you my hometown Kandy from a local’s point of view. I will take you on a spectacular drive through the Sacred City of Kandy, now a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let’s explore some amazing sights together as you get to know my hometown: We will visit the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, situated in the Royal Palace Complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, I’ll drive you to the Queen's Bathing Pavilion, the National Museum of Kandy, the Buddhist Temple on the top oft he hill and a breathtaking view! On the way to a tea plantation we will come across one of my favorite spots - the banks of the river Mahawali. We will definitely see some monkeys on our day together - with some luck we might even spot a jaguar in the distance along the river. I suggest we grab some food at a local restaurant - at your own expense. Please make sure to bring drinking water, as tourists often don’t take our tap water well. I’ve got these favorite spots but of course if you have any preferences or places you’d like to see that aren’t mentioned above - just let me know and I’ll make sure to incorporate them into our day together. I’m happy to meet you at the railway station or even pick you up at your hotel. If you want to make this a full day tour, just let me know! I‘m looking forward to meeting you. :) Yours, Dinesh

Sigiriya, Dambulla & Minneriya day tour

5. Sigiriya, Dambulla & Minneriya day tour

Experience the ultimate Sri Lankan adventure with our Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Minneriya National Park one-day tour. Travel in style and comfort with a licensed guide and a climate-controlled vehicle, exploring ancient sites and immersing yourself in the country's natural beauty. Your adventure begins with a visit to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 5th century AD. Enjoy stunning views as you hike to the top of the fortress, passing through ancient frescoes and mirror walls along the way. Next, we'll take you to the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses numerous statues and paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha and his teachings. Admire the serene beauty of these sacred caves and learn about the ancient religious beliefs and practices of Sri Lanka. The tour culminates at the Minneriya National Park, where you'll enjoy an open-air 4x4 jeep safari in search of elephants, the park's most magnificent inhabitants. Get up close and personal with these gentle giants and observe the park's diverse wildlife, including a plethora of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The picturesque landscape includes a beautiful lake surrounded by jungle, making the tour a wonderful opportunity to relax and unwind amidst the breathtaking nature of Sri Lanka. Throughout the tour, you'll have the expert guidance of a licensed guide to provide you with deep insights into Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage, its fascinating history, and diverse wildlife. The tour also includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and a delicious lunch to offer you the most pleasurable memories. This tour package is ideal for travelers seeking an intense cultural and nature experience within a short time. With #srilankabycar, the possibilities for adventure and exploration are endless. Join us on this incredible journey to experience the best of Sri Lanka's rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and wildlife diversity. Book now and discover why Sri Lanka is known as the land of wonder!

From Galle/Weligama/Mirissa: Day Trip to Ella Highlands

6. From Galle/Weligama/Mirissa: Day Trip to Ella Highlands

Start Ella tour at 7.00 a.m, Ella is pure natural beauty, with its waterfalls, greenery, and hills it is just jaw-dropping. Ella is the perfect place to go to if one wants to refresh the brain. It has many famous places and has been under the attention of tourist for a decent amount of time now. On the way to Ella our first visit is Buduruwagala rock temple. Buduruwagala is an ancient Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. The complex consists of seven statues and belongs to the Mahayana school of thought. Next stop is Ravana waterfall, a popular sightseeing attraction in Sri Lanka. It currently ranks as one of the widest falls in the country. After that we will reach Ella City, a small town in the Badulla District of Uva Province, it is situated at an elevation of 1,041 meters above sea level. Then next we will go to Nine Arch Bridge. It is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country. Then time to climb little Adams peak, Little Adam’s Peak attracts many travelers who come to Sri Lanka. While climbing the Adams peak take lunch at 98 Acres Resort & Spa. It is an elegant, chic hotel that stands on a scenic 98-acre tea estate, surrounded by a stunning landscape. After having lunch you can experience Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line South Asia's longest and Sri Lanka’s first-ever mega dual zip-line, located amidst the luscious green estates of Ella, Sri Lanka. Finally, visit Halpewaththa Tea factory. Drink a cup while enjoying the magnificent natural beauty of the area. It is the final destination of our tour. Finally, back to the hotel.

From Kandy: Full-Day Kandy Tour with Lunch

7. From Kandy: Full-Day Kandy Tour with Lunch

08.00: Begin your memorable city tour by being picked up from your hotel in Kandy. The tour includes two key attractions: the Kandy Tooth Relic Temple and Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. 08.30: Immerse yourself in the beauty and cultural significance of Kandy, the administrative and religious capital of Sri Lanka, nestled amidst stunning mountain ranges. This ancient city served as the final capital of the country's ancient rulers and holds great importance in Buddhism. Explore the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site and Unesco World Heritage site. The city's rich history includes resisting colonial occupation by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Admire the unique Bahirawakanda Temple and the scenic Kandy Lake, built by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. Discover Kandy's vibrant arts, crafts, music, dance, and cultural heritage. The city tour also includes visits to a gem lapidary, an art and craft center, and a traditional cultural show. 12.00: Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine. 13.00: Venture to the enchanting Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, located approximately 5.5 kilometers west of Kandy in the Central Province. The gardens, situated near the Mahaweli River, are renowned for their vast collection of orchids and diverse plant species, including medicinal plants, spices, and palm trees. Established in 1371, the gardens have a rich history and were originally part of a palace complex. Enjoy the serene surroundings and explore the lush greenery under the care of the Department of Agriculture's Division of National Botanic Gardens. 16.30: Witness the captivating Kandy Cultural Show, a vibrant display of traditional music, dance, and cultural performances that showcase the rich heritage of Sri Lanka. 17.30: Conclude your tour and be dropped off at the same hotel where you were picked up, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and cultural treasures encountered throughout your Kandy exploration.

From Kandy To Pinnawala Tour By Tuk Tuk Pinnawala Sri Lanka

8. From Kandy To Pinnawala Tour By Tuk Tuk Pinnawala Sri Lanka

🟢Start @8.45 in Kandy ➾ (18km) Kadugannawa View Point ➾ (22km) Pinnawala ➾ (29km) Geragama Tea Factory ➾ (6km) Royal Botanical Garden ➾ (4km) Spice Walk ➾ (5km) Kandy City View Point ➾ (100m) Gem Museum ➾ (600m) Kandyan Culture Dancing ➾ (1km) Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic ➾ (1km) Drop-off Your Hotel 🔚 🛑 Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage , is a captive breeding and conservation institute for wild Asian elephants located at Pinnawala village, 13 km (8.1 mi) northeast of Kegalle town in Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. Pinnawala has the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. In 2023, there were 71 elephants, including 30 males and 41 females from 3 generations, living in Pinnawala. The orphanage was founded to care and protect the many orphaned unweaned wild elephants found wandering in and near the forests of Sri Lanka. It was established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC). On 31 August 2021, a 25 year old elephant named Surangi gave birth to twin male baby elephants at the orphanage. It also marked the first instance of the birth of twin elephants in Sri Lanka after a gap of 80 years since 1941.

From Kandy: Evening Kandy city tour by Tuk-Tuk

9. From Kandy: Evening Kandy city tour by Tuk-Tuk

14.00: Begin your memorable city tour of Kandy by being picked up from your hotel in a Tuk-Tuk, a traditional Sri Lankan mode of transportation. 14.30: Embark on a fascinating city safari in a Tuk-Tuk, accompanied by your knowledgeable trip advisor (guide). Discover the historical significance of Kandy, which served as Sri Lanka's final capital under ancient rulers. Visit the renowned Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site and Unesco World Heritage site. Gain insights into the struggles faced by local Buddhist kings against colonial powers such as the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Experience the unique ambiance of Bahirawakanda Temple and marvel at the scenic beauty of Kandy Lake, built by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. Immerse yourself in Kandy's vibrant arts, crafts, dance, music, and cultural heritage. The city tour will also include visits to a gem lapidary, an art and craft center, and a traditional cultural show, providing a comprehensive exploration of this historically rich town. 18.30: As your city tour comes to an end, you will be dropped off at the same hotel where you were picked up, reflecting on the remarkable experiences and cultural treasures encountered throughout your Kandy exploration.

Kandy, Pinnawala day trip from Bentota, Kalutara beach

10. Kandy, Pinnawala day trip from Bentota, Kalutara beach

Your one-day tour starts from Beach hotels on the west coast like Bentota Beach and Kalutara Beach and then relax in air-conditioned comfortable vehicle on the journey to Pinnawala elephant orphanage. The drive lasts around 2 hours. Later explore the spice/herbal garden with an indigenous plantation that produces spices such as cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, cocoa, cinnamon and many hundreds of other spices and herbs. Later visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic to see the sacred tooth of Buddha, a symbol of status that proved the worthiness of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka. Admire the beautiful architecture of the palace and look at the golden figurines in the shrine. At Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage we guarantee that you witness a big herd of elephants that are in different ages. Then, explore some of the ancient crafts by traditional artisans, including gems, wood carving, and batik. Watch craft demonstrations and buy souvenir gifts before lunch at a local restaurant at your own expense. Continue to the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, and go for a stroll on the 147-acre grounds. See over 4,000 different species of plants, including an exclusive collection of orchids, spices, and medicinal plants. Learn the history of the 19th-century gardens, and see famous plants such as the cannonball tree, giant fig tree, and 40-meter-tall Burma bamboo.

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What people are saying about Sabaragamuwa Province

Really good experience! At one of the attractions we should have visited, there was a really long queue and too many people, so our guide was good at coming up with a lot of other options we could see if we wanted. All the experiences were quite exciting! Our guide also found some great eateries along the way with really nice views each time. He was good at assessing when he was needed as a guide and when it was better for us to be alone and she stayed close by (eg at the restaurants). On the slightly long drive, he was also good at explaining what we saw when we looked out the windows and in general what Sri Lanka was like.