Emerald Isle Journeys

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Highland Highlands Adventure

Admire the Sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, housing what is believed to be a tooth of the Buddha. Nestled beside Kandy Lake, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features traditional Kandyan architecture, elaborate murals, and daily rituals performed by monks. The best time to visit is during early mornings (5:30 AM – 8:00 AM) or evening poojas (6:30 PM), when the atmosphere is spiritually rich. Avoid weekends for a quieter experience. Visiting during the Esala Perahera (July/August) offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s most celebrated cultural festival.

Enjoy Panoramic Views from Kandy’s Scenic Overlook

Kandy View Point, also known as Arthur’s Seat, offers breathtaking vistas of Kandy Lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and the surrounding hills. It’s an easy drive or a short hike from the city centre. The viewpoint is especially captivating at sunrise or sunset, where the changing light paints the landscape in golden hues. It’s a perfect stop for photography, relaxation, and appreciating the lush surroundings. Vendors nearby sell local snacks and souvenirs, adding to the local vibe.

Explore the Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary

Located about 40 km from Kandy, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage provides a sanctuary for orphaned, abandoned, or injured elephants. Guests can witness daily feeding sessions and watch herds bathe in the nearby Ma Oya River — an unforgettable sight. Visit around 10:00 AM or 2:00 PM, when the elephants are led to the river. Ideal travel months are January to April and July to September, offering good weather and clear river levels. It’s a great destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Discover the Beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens

Situated in Peradeniya, just outside Kandy, the Royal Botanic Gardens is the largest and most impressive in Sri Lanka. It spans over 147 acres and is home to over 4,000 species of flora, including a spectacular avenue of royal palms, a giant Javan fig tree, and colourful orchid houses. Best visited in the morning (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM) or late afternoon, it offers cool, shaded paths and picnic spots. The gardens are beautiful year-round, but the flowering season from March to May adds extra vibrancy.

Tour the Spice Plantations in Matale

Matale is a spice-growing region north of Kandy, famed for its lush plantations cultivating cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper, cloves, and cardamom. Guided tours through these plantations educate visitors about Ayurvedic uses and traditional farming techniques. You can smell, touch, and taste fresh spices, and even purchase organic products. Morning visits (before 11:00 AM) are ideal for avoiding the heat, and the best time of year is during the dry season from December to April.

Visit Mawanella’s Spice Gardens

Mawanella, located between Kandy and Colombo, is another hotspot for spice garden visits. These smaller, often family-run gardens offer more personalised tours where visitors can learn about Ayurvedic practices, taste herbal teas, and watch spice preparation demonstrations. It’s best visited in the morning or early afternoon, and most gardens are open year-round. Pairing this with a drive to or from Kandy creates a pleasant countryside detour.

Engage with Local Artistry at Gem, Wood Carving, and Batik Workshops

Kandy is a hub for traditional Sri Lankan craftsmanship. Visitors can tour gem museums where they learn about Sri Lanka’s gem mining and cutting processes, watch wood carvers shape intricate statues from mahogany and sandalwood, and observe batik artisans as they create vibrant textiles using wax-dye techniques. Most workshops are open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and mornings are ideal for guided experiences. These workshops not only showcase cultural heritage but also support local artisans.

Tour Highlights

  • City Sightseeing Adventures
  • Captivating Natural Scenery
  • Picturesque Garden Landscapes

Inclusions

  • Experienced Local Guide
  • Transport
  • Traditional Meal
  • Entrance Fees
  • Free Drinks and Bottled Water
  • Coverage of All Applicable Taxes

Exclusions

Anything that is not mentioned above