FAQ's

The climb involves approximately 1,200 steps and can be moderately challenging, especially for those not used to hiking. However, with proper footwear, water, and breaks along the way, most visitors can complete the climb comfortably within 1.5 to 2 hours.

Yes, guided tours are widely available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Sigiriya. Local guides provide valuable insights into the ancient frescoes, water gardens, and royal palace ruins.

The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the world. It houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a top tourist attraction in Sri Lanka.

Our attraction pass save you more than buying individual tickets for your tour package system. Our attraction pass save you more than buying. We offer a wide range of digital services, including website design and development, e-commerce solutions

The temple is open daily from 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM, with special puja (offering) ceremonies held at specific times: morning (5:30 AM), midday (9:30 AM), and evening (6:30 PM). These times are ideal for witnessing traditional rituals and drumming.

Yes, respectful attire is required. Visitors must wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering the temple premises, and hats should also be taken off as a sign of respect.

Photography is allowed in most outer areas of the temple complex, but it is prohibited inside the inner chamber where the tooth relic is kept. Always follow signage and respect the sanctity of the space while taking photos.

The Bahirawakanda Vihara is a stunning hilltop temple in Kandy, known for its giant white Buddha statue, which stands at 26 meters tall. It offers spiritual significance and panoramic views of the entire Kandy city and surrounding mountains.

The temple is located just about 2 km from the Kandy city center and can be reached by tuk-tuk, car, or even a short uphill walk. Most local tours include a stop at Bahirawakanda due to its scenic and cultural appeal.

Yes, a small entrance fee is charged for tourists, usually around LKR 300–500 per person. This helps support temple maintenance and local community efforts. Donations are also welcome at the temple.

Visitors can walk around the base of the giant Buddha statue, enjoy 360-degree views of Kandy, light oil lamps for blessings, and take stunning photographs. It's also a peaceful place for quiet reflection, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Kandy Lake, also known as Bogambara Lake, is a scenic man-made lake located in the heart of Kandy, next to the Temple of the Tooth. It’s a peaceful spot for a leisurely walk, photography, and enjoying the serene atmosphere of the city’s cultural center.

While boat rides are not commonly available to the general public, some private boat services may operate seasonally or through select hotels. Most visitors prefer to walk along the shaded lakeside pathway, which offers beautiful views and cool breezes.

Our attraction pass save you more than buying individual tickets for your tour package system. Our attraction pass save you more than buying. We offer a wide range of digital services, including website design and development, e-commerce solutions

A full walk around Kandy Lake takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace and photo stops. The path is flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for all ages, especially in the morning or late afternoon.

During your walk, you’ll pass scenic viewpoints, the Royal Bathing Pavilion, Temple of the Tooth, and spot various birds, monitor lizards, and maybe even bats. The lakeside is also great for observing local life and enjoying the tranquil side of Kandy.

A visit to a tea factory in Kandy offers an immersive experience into Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon tea industry. You’ll see the full tea-making process—from withering to rolling and drying—and learn about the history and grades of tea from expert guides.

Yes, most tea factory tours include a complimentary tea tasting, where you can sample different varieties like black tea, green tea, and flavored blends. It’s a great way to discover your favorite brew and understand the flavor profiles of Ceylon tea.

Absolutely! Almost all tea factories in Kandy have an on-site tea shop, where you can purchase freshly packed tea at factory prices. Many shops also sell beautifully packaged gift sets, ideal as souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.

While walk-ins are welcome at most tea factories, it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This ensures availability of a guided tour in your preferred language and a smoother overall experience.

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stunning cave complex filled with ancient Buddha statues, murals, and sacred relics. It is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, dating back over 2,000 years.

There are five main caves open to the public, each featuring a unique collection of Buddha statues, religious artwork, and historical inscriptions. The walls and ceilings are beautifully painted with centuries-old frescoes depicting the life of the Buddha.

As it is a sacred Buddhist site, visitors should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering the temple area, so it’s advisable to bring socks if you're uncomfortable walking barefoot on hot stone steps.

Yes, there is a short but steep climb of about 10–15 minutes to reach the cave entrance. The steps are manageable for most visitors, and the panoramic views from the top make the effort worthwhile.

The Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, located just outside Kandy, is Sri Lanka’s largest and most famous botanical garden. It’s known for its diverse collection of over 4,000 plant species, including orchids, medicinal plants, spices, palm avenues, and giant bamboo.

Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the garden’s highlights at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for walking, photography, and enjoying a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery.

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to learn about the rare plants, historical trees, and colonial influence on the garden’s design. You can hire a local guide at the entrance or pre-book with a travel agency.

The entrance fee for foreign visitors is typically around LKR 2,000 per person, while Sri Lankan nationals enjoy a reduced rate. Children and students also receive discounted entry.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is one of Sri Lanka’s top wildlife attractions, known for its large herd of rescued and orphaned elephants. Visitors can watch them roam freely, bathe in the river, and learn about elephant care and conservation efforts.

The best times to visit are during feeding time (9:15 AM & 1:15 PM) and bathing time (10:00 AM & 2:00 PM) when the elephants are taken to the nearby river. These moments offer great photo opportunities and a chance to see the elephants up close in a natural setting.

While direct interaction is limited to ensure the elephants’ safety and comfort, supervised feeding experiences are sometimes available, especially for baby elephants. Bathing is generally observed from a safe distance along the Ma Oya riverbank.

Pinnawala is located about 40 km from Kandy (1.5-hour drive) and approximately 90 km from Colombo (2.5–3 hours). It’s a popular stop on the way to or from Kandy and can be included in a day tour itinerary.

Horton Plains is home to sambar deer, purple-faced langurs, wild boar, and many endemic bird species. Lucky visitors may even spot a leopard, although sightings are rare.

It’s best to arrive between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM to avoid mist and enjoy clear views at World’s End. The park tends to cloud over by mid-morning, so early visits are highly recommended.

The main hiking loop is approximately 9.5 km (about 3 hours) and takes you past Mini World’s End, World’s End, and Baker’s Falls. The trail is relatively easy to moderate and suitable for most fitness levels, though good walking shoes are recommended.

Horton Plains National Park is a stunning highland plateau located in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s known for its cool climate, scenic hiking trails, cloud forests, and the dramatic cliff drop known as World’s End, which offers panoramic views on clear days.

Ella is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. The top attractions include Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, Ravana Falls, and the Demodara Loop. Many tourists also enjoy visiting tea factories and relaxing in cozy hillside cafés.

The best time to visit Ella is during the dry season from January to April when the weather is sunny and ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for scenic views without the heat or crowds.

Yes, Ella can be explored on a well-planned day tour, especially if you're traveling from nearby towns like Badulla, Bandarawela, or Nuwara Eliya. A typical day tour includes hikes to Little Adam’s Peak, a visit to Nine Arches Bridge, a stop at Ravana Falls, and tea tasting at a local plantation.

Yes, the iconic Nine Arches Bridge train crossing is one of the most popular sights in Ella. Trains typically pass around 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 3:30 PM, but schedules can vary, so it’s best to check locally on the day of your visit for the most accurate timing.

Galle is best known for the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Portuguese and fortified by the Dutch. Other highlights include the Galle Lighthouse, Dutch Reformed Church, National Maritime Museum, Jungle Beach, and Unawatuna Beach nearby.

On a Galle day tour, you can walk along the historic fort walls, explore colonial-era architecture, shop for souvenirs and gemstones in charming boutiques, enjoy local seafood cuisine, and relax on nearby beaches like Unawatuna or Jungle Beach.

Yes! Galle Fort has a variety of local shops, art galleries, cafes, and boutique stores offering handicrafts, antiques, and unique souvenirs. It’s also known for its seafood restaurants, rooftop cafes, and authentic Sri Lankan cuisine with a colonial twist.

Galle is located about 120 km south of Colombo and can be reached by car (2–2.5 hours) via the Southern Expressway or by scenic train ride along the coast. Private vehicles and guided tours are the most convenient for day trips.

Kaudulla National Park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants in their natural habitat. It’s part of the “Elephant Gathering” migration route, where large herds—sometimes over 200 elephants—gather near the Kaudulla Tank, especially during the dry season.

The best time to visit Kaudulla for elephant watching is from August to December, especially around September and October, when the Elephant Gathering peaks. Safaris are best done in the afternoon (around 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM) when elephants come to the water.

A typical Kaudulla jeep safari lasts 3–4 hours, including pickup, entry formalities, and the drive through the park. You’ll travel with a local driver and guide in a 4x4 jeep across grasslands, forests, and lakeside paths to spot elephants and other wildlife.

While elephants are the main attraction, Kaudulla is also home to deer, wild boar, monkeys, crocodiles, peacocks, and a variety of bird species. It’s an excellent location for both wildlife photography and birdwatching.

Minneriya National Park is world-renowned for the “Elephant Gathering”, one of the largest seasonal gatherings of wild Asian elephants in the world. During the dry season, hundreds of elephants gather around the Minneriya Tank (reservoir) to drink, feed, and socialize—offering a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.

The best time to visit Minneriya is from July to October, with the peak elephant gathering usually seen between August and September. Afternoon safaris starting around 2:30 PM are ideal, as elephants come out to the open grasslands to bathe and feed.

A typical Minneriya safari lasts 3 to 4 hours and includes a 4x4 jeep ride with a local guide, entrance fees, and a drive through dry zone forests, grasslands, and the reservoir area. Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off if you're staying in nearby areas like Sigiriya or Habarana.

In addition to elephants, Minneriya is home to sambar deer, spotted deer, wild buffalo, sloth bears, and a variety of birds, reptiles, and monkeys. It’s a great spot for nature photography and birdwatching, especially around the reservoir.

Mirissa is a beautiful coastal town in southern Sri Lanka, best known for its whale and dolphin watching tours, golden beaches, surfing, and vibrant beach nightlife. It’s a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure by the sea.

The best time to visit Mirissa is from November to April, when the ocean is calm and ideal for whale watching, snorkeling, and beach activities. This period offers sunny weather and high chances of spotting blue whales, the largest animals on earth.

A typical Mirissa day tour includes an early morning whale watching boat trip, relaxing on Mirissa Beach, a visit to the Coconut Tree Hill viewpoint, and snorkeling or swimming at Secret Beach. You can also enjoy delicious seafood and tropical drinks at beachfront restaurants.

Yes, most licensed operators in Mirissa follow eco-friendly and responsible whale watching practices. Boats maintain a safe distance from marine life, and tours are conducted by experienced crews to ensure both safety and sustainability.

Arugam Bay is world-famous for surfing, offering some of the best waves in Sri Lanka and South Asia. It's also known for its laid-back beach vibe, yoga retreats, beach parties, and proximity to wildlife-rich areas like Kumana National Park and Pottuvil Lagoon.

The best time to visit Arugam Bay is during the surf season from May to September, when waves are at their peak and the weather is dry and sunny. This is also when the area comes alive with local and international surfers and beach festivals.

Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy yoga classes, sunrise lagoon safaris at Pottuvil Lagoon, wildlife safaris in Kumana National Park, and visits to local attractions like Elephant Rock, Peanut Farm Beach, and Muhudu Maha Viharaya—an ancient seaside Buddhist temple.

Absolutely! Arugam Bay is perfect for travelers who just want to relax on the beach, enjoy tropical cafés, take part in nature tours, or experience the local East Coast culture. It's ideal for couples, solo travelers, and adventure seekers alike.

Leopards can occasionally be spotted in Udawalawe National Park, but sightings are very rare. The park is more famous for its large population of wild elephants, but it also supports leopards, sloth bears, and other wildlife.

On an Udawalawe safari, you’ll likely see herds of elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles, jackals, deer, and a wide variety of birds and raptors. With luck, you may spot a leopard or sloth bear, especially during early morning safaris.

The best time for a safari is early morning (6:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM), when wildlife is most active. The dry season from May to September is particularly good for spotting animals near water sources.

Hot air balloon rides are most popular around the Cultural Triangle area, especially near Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Habarana. These locations offer stunning aerial views of ancient ruins, lush forests, and wildlife parks.

Most hot air balloon rides take place at sunrise, providing spectacular views of the landscape bathed in early morning light. The early timing also benefits from calm winds and cooler temperatures for a smoother flight

A typical hot air balloon flight lasts about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Including pre-flight preparations and post-flight celebrations like a champagne toast, the entire experience may take around 2 to 3 hours.

Yes, hot air balloon rides in Sri Lanka are conducted by experienced pilots using well-maintained equipment and follow strict safety regulations. Operators usually provide a safety briefing before the flight to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

At KandylankaTours, we know it’s the stunning tea plantations, misty mountains, and iconic spots like the Nine Arches Bridge that make this route unforgettable

We offer hassle-free advance booking with insider tips to secure your preferred seat, including the elusive observation car.

Our guides recommend sitting on the right from Kandy to Nanu Oya, then switch to the left side to capture the most breathtaking scenery to Ella.

We help you choose from 1st class air-conditioned comfort, popular 2nd class reserved seating, or authentic 3rd class local experience.

Yes! Our network and expertise give you the best chance of securing tickets even during peak seasons or last-minute plans.

We provide real-time train schedules, travel tips, and hidden gems along the route to make your journey smooth, safe, and truly memorable.