What is the Temple of the Tooth and why is it significant?

Daladha Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) is Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist shrine, believed to house a relic of Buddha's tooth. It is the primary reason Kandy became the last royal capital in the 15th century and remains one of Asia's most important pilgrimage sites.

How far is Kandy from Colombo and how do I get there?

Kandy is 115km northeast of Colombo, approximately 2–3 hours by car or train. Your tour includes ground transportation as part of the 8-hour experience.

What should I wear when visiting the Temple of the Tooth?

Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. You will need to remove shoes before entering sacred areas, so wear slip-on footwear. Temple authorities enforce these dress codes strictly.

Is the Royal Botanical Garden worth visiting if I'm short on time?

Yes. Peradeniya is one of Asia's finest botanical gardens spanning 147 acres, featuring rare tropical plants, orchids, and scenic river views. It's a highlight of the Kandy experience and included in your full-day tour.

What is Kandy Lake and can I walk around it?

Kandy Lake is an artificial lake created by a past ruler that now serves as the city's scenic centrepiece. The surrounding area has walking paths offering views of the lake and surrounding hills—a peaceful spot included in your tour itinerary.

In which languages are the tours offered?

Tours are available in German and English with professional guides providing commentary throughout the 8-hour experience.

One Day Experience in Kandy (German & English) 1

One Day Experience in Kandy (German & English) 2

One Day Experience in Kandy (German & English) 3

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One Day Experience in Kandy (German & English)

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Kandy, Sri Lanka

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About this activity

Explore Sri Lanka's cultural heartland in a single day, discovering Kandy's rich history as the island's last royal capital and home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth. This 8-hour guided tour combines spiritual landmarks, botanical gardens, and scenic viewpoints in a valley setting 600m above sea level, 115km northeast of Colombo.

Kandy, more popularly known as the hill capital of Sri Lanka, is an attractive tourist destination. Its history dates back to the 15th century, when it was the last royal capital of the country. The city is 115km from Colombo and is the second biggest city in Sri Lanka. Kandy has an abundance of culture around it; the Temple of the Tooth being the most popular attraction. The centre of the city is situated in a valley which is elevated at 600m above sea level. Kandy Lake is an artificial creation by one of the past rulers and today, it is a scenic centre piece of the town. Also, home to an international cricket stadium, Kandy brings in thousands of cricket fans. Sports, religion, history and culture, Kandy has it all! A Day tour of Kandy should not be missed out on your tour of Sri Lanka.

Highlights

Daladha Maligawa - [Temple of Tooth]
Royal Botanical Garden Peradeniya
Kandy View Point
Kandy Lake

Highlights

✓Daladha Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) – Sri Lanka's most revered Buddhist shrine
✓Royal Botanical Garden Peradeniya – 147 acres of lush gardens with tropical plants
✓Kandy Lake – serene artificial lake with walking paths and city views
✓Kandy City Viewpoint – panoramic vistas of the hill capital
✓Guided commentary in German or English throughout

Insider tips

★Visit the Temple of the Tooth early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the peaceful atmosphere before daily ceremonies
★Wear modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) for temple entry; remove shoes at sacred areas
★The botanical gardens are best explored in dry season when all paths are accessible and lighting is optimal for photography

Good to know

•Duration is 8 hours total; plan for significant walking between attractions
•Tours available in German and English with professional guides
•Comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen recommended due to elevation and sun exposure
•Temple entry may have restricted hours during special ceremonies; your guide will navigate this

Who it's for

Culture and history enthusiastsBuddhist pilgrims and spiritual seekersGarden lovers and nature photographersFirst-time visitors to Sri Lanka

Best time to visit

Visit during dry season (December–February or July–August) for clear viewpoints and comfortable walking conditions. Morning tours capture the Temple of the Tooth at its most spiritual and least crowded.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Mike V.

Apr 2026

our guide Mei had so many stories and a little local spot off the usual route was the highlight ... First thing in the morning so it wasnt too busy. Good as a half-day option, and ran the full 4 hours promised, and 6 stops in about 3 hours. Would book again no question, loved it

Grace G.

Apr 2026

So nice this one, a stop the guide added on the fly was amazing and Samir the guide explain everything good. Better than Kyoto for sure, we go again!

Nina R.

Jan 2025

our guide Leila couldnt do enough for us and a little local spot off the usual route was the highlight, and fine even with my dodgy knee, and ran the full 4 hours promised.

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