Sigiriya - Kandy 2 Days Tour
Combine the sacred beauty of the hill country with the awe-inspiring wonders of the Cultural Triangle on this immersive 1-Night / 2-Day Private Tour departing from Bentota.
Pinnawala Elephant orphanage or Spice garden
Kandy Temple of the Tooth Relic
Peradeniya Royal botanical garden
Sigiriya rock
Village lunch, Elephant rides
Elephants safari
Dambulla Golden cave temple
Experience the Crown Jewels of Sri Lanka’s Heritage
Crafted by Jilan Tours, this multi-day journey blends cultural immersion, authentic local cuisine, and wild nature.
On Day 1, journey up to Kandy to explore sacred temples before relaxing overnight in Dambulla.
Tour Highlights
Pinnawala, Kandy, Dambulla - Sigiriya, Dambulla, Elephant Safari
On Day 2, scale the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress, savor an authentic Traditional Sri Lankan Village Lunch, explore the sacred Dambulla Golden Cave Temple, and embark on a thrilling 4x4 Wild Elephant Safari before returning comfortably to Bentota.
Detailed Step-by-Step Itinerary
Day 01: Bentota to Kandy & Night Stay in Dambulla
06:00 AM – Pickup from Bentota
Your private driver from Jilan Tours will pick you up directly from your hotel or villa in Bentota in a fully air-conditioned vehicle. Enjoy a comfortable drive through lush lowland greenery as we head toward the hill capital.
09:30 AM – Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary or Spice Garden
En route to Kandy, visit the famous Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary to watch rescued elephants socialising and bathing in the river, followed by a visit to a herbal spice garden in Matale.
01:00 PM – Explore Sacred Kandy & Temple of the Tooth
Arrive in Kandy and visit the world-renowned Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa). Take a scenic drive around Kandy Lake and enjoy a local lunch break.
Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden
Next, visit the magnificent Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka's largest and most famous botanical garden.
Covering nearly 150 acres, the gardens feature more than 4,000 species of plants, including exotic orchids, medicinal plants, giant bamboo, towering palm avenues, and colorful tropical flowers.
The gardens provide a peaceful atmosphere and are a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
Highlights:
Giant Java Fig Tree
Orchid House
Palm Avenue
Spice and medicinal plant collections
Beautiful tropical landscapes
04:00 PM – Scenic Drive to Dambulla
Head north from Kandy into the plains of the Cultural Triangle.
06:30 PM – Hotel Check-In & Relax in Dambulla
Check into your hotel in Dambulla. Enjoy dinner and a restful overnight stay in a serene atmosphere.
(Overnight stay at a hotel in Dambulla)
Day 02:
Sigiriya Rock, Village Lunch, Cave Temple & Safari
07:00 AM – Conquer Sigiriya Rock Fortress
After breakfast, set off early to climb the world-famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Walk through the ancient water gardens, admire the 5th-century rock frescoes, pass through the giant Lion’s Paws entrance, and reach the summit for panoramic jungle views.
11:00 AM – Traditional Sri Lankan Village Lunch
Experience authentic rural hospitality with an interactive village tour.
Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch served on banana leaves, freshly prepared using local spices, fresh herbs, and wood-fired clay cooking methods.
01:00 PM – Visit Dambulla Golden Cave Temple
Explore the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka's largest and best-preserved cave shrine complex. Walk through five carved rock caves filled with over 150 Buddha statues and ancient Buddhist wall murals.
03:00 PM – Sigiriya 4x4 Wild Elephant Safari
Hop into a open-top 4x4 jeep for an exciting safari in Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco Park (selected based on seasonal elephant movements). Watch large herds of wild Asian elephants grazing, playing, and drinking near the reservoirs.
05:30 PM – Scenic Return Drive to Bentota
Rejoin your private vehicle and relax on the smooth highway drive back to the West Coast.
09:30 PM – Safe Drop-off in Bentota
Arrive safely back at your hotel or villa in Bentota, concluding an unforgettable 2-day adventure.
Kandy Cultural Capital: Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and scenic mountain viewpoints.
Overnight in Dambulla: Relax with a peaceful stay in the heart of the Cultural Triangle.
Iconic Sigiriya Rock: Conquer the 5th-century "Lion Rock" and explore King Kasyapa’s sky palace.
Authentic Village Lunch: Taste fresh, organic Sri Lankan curry prepared over traditional wood-fired clay pots.
Sacred Cave Shrines: Tour the ancient cliffside rock caverns and golden statues at Dambulla Cave Temple.
4x4 Elephant Safari: Spot wild Asian elephant herds in their natural jungle environment.
Private AC Comfort: Enjoy seamless round-trip transport from Bentota with a dedicated driver-guide.
What's Included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private air-conditioned vehicle
White water rafting equipment, boat, and safety guide
Fuel charges
Parking fees
Chilled bottled water during transit
Not Included
Accommodation in Dambulla (Can be arranged upon request
Entrance tickets (Sigiriya Rock, Temple of Tooth, Cave Temple)
Traditional Village Lunch fee
Dinner on Day 1 and personal drinks
Optional gratuities for driver and safari guide
Practical Tips for Your 2-Day Tour
Temple Dress Code: When visiting the Temple of the Tooth (Kandy) and Dambulla Cave Temple, please wear modest clothing covering both shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed at the entrance.
Climbing Sigiriya: Wear light, breathable clothes and sturdy walking shoes or sneakers for the rock climb. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and water.
Safari Preparation: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and camera with zoom capabilities for spotting elephants during the afternoon jeep safari.
Why Book Your Multi-Day Tour with Jilan Tours?
Managing transportation, timing, and site visits across Kandy, Dambulla, and Sigiriya can be complex. Jilan Tours takes care of every detail—from smooth highway transit to punctual pickups—so you can focus entirely on enjoying Sri Lanka's incredible heritage and wildlife.
Ready to Book Your Kandy, Sigiriya & Dambulla Experience?
