Kandy became Sri Lanka’s royal capital in 1470, but it has a collection of Buddhist temples and Hindu shrines that precede this period. Discover the most notable examples on this three temple loop tour. These structures guard well-preserved examples of ancient artwork, and are themselves a visual masterpiece with extraordinarily ornate architecture.
- Discover the symbiotic relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism in Sri Lankan heritage
- Explore ancient architecture and religious artwork
- Traverse the Kandyan countryside by tuk tuk
What's Included ?
Your host, water and tuk tuk journeys.
What top wear ?
Conservative clothing
Discover the ancient architecture and artwork of Sri Lanka’s last royal region that’s known for its dedication to the arts. These three temples and shrines evidence the relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism in Sri Lankan heritage, revealing how each influences the other. Your tour begins and ends with ornate 12th-century temples that still have a sense of grandeur, with a stop at 14th-century Lankatilaka on the way. Embekka, your final stop, offers great views across a plantation with tea, coffee and pepper. Travel the loop by tuk tuk, passing the paddy fields of the city’s countryside.
What is the significance of the temples and shrines visited on the tour?
The temples and shrines visited on the tour are significant landmarks that showcase the rich architectural and artistic heritage of Sri Lanka’s last royal region. They serve as important cultural and religious sites, providing insights into the historical relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism in Sri Lankan heritage.
What can visitors expect to see at each of the temples and shrines?
Visitors can expect to see ornate 12th-century temples that still retain a sense of grandeur, as well as the 14th-century Lankatilaka temple known for its remarkable architectural beauty. Each site offers unique insights into Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious history, with intricate artwork, sculptures, and religious artifacts on display.
How is the tour conducted, and what mode of transportation is used?
The tour is conducted in a loop format, beginning and ending with visits to the temples and shrines. Travel between the sites is typically done by tuk-tuk, providing a convenient and immersive way to experience the city’s countryside and paddy fields. Participants can expect a guided tour with knowledgeable guides providing insights into the history, architecture, and significance of each site visited.
“Our experience exploring the ancient temples and shrines of Sri Lanka’s royal heartland was truly unforgettable! Led by knowledgeable guides, we were transported back in time as we visited each site, marveling at the intricate architecture and rich artwork that adorned these sacred spaces. The tour provided valuable insights into the historical relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism in Sri Lankan heritage, deepening our understanding of the country’s cultural tapestry. Traveling by tuk-tuk added to the adventure, allowing us to soak in the picturesque countryside views along the way. We highly recommend this tour to anyone seeking to delve into the fascinating history and spirituality of Sri Lanka’s last royal region.”
“Our family had a wonderful time exploring the temples and shrines of Sri Lanka’s royal heartland on this tour. The temples were breathtaking, and we appreciated the opportunity to learn about the historical and religious significance of each site from our knowledgeable guides. The tuk-tuk ride through the countryside added an extra element of fun for the kids, who loved spotting the paddy fields and tea plantations along the way. Our only suggestion for improvement would be to provide more time at each site to fully appreciate the beauty and history of these ancient landmarks. Overall, a fantastic experience that we would recommend to other families visiting Sri Lanka.”
