2-Anciant Kingdoms Private Tour from Kandy
Highlights
- Visit three ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka
- See the ruins of the magnificent royal palace
- Explore the 13th century rock fortress of Yapahuwa
- Enjoy panoramic views from the Elephant Rock
- Learn about the history and culture of Sri Lanka
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Duration 12 hours
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Private Tour Experience
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English-speaking guide
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Includes 1L water bottle
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
Experience the magic of Sri Lanka's ancient kingdoms in this private tour from Kandy. Explore the breathtaking ruins and rich history of Panduwasnuwara, a kingdom that dates back over two millennia. Discover the secrets of the royal palace complex and marvel at the impressive tower with its thick walls. Visit the recently restored former temple of the tooth relic and witness the engineering marvel of Panda Wewa, one of the world's oldest irrigation systems. Next, journey to Yapahuwa and immerse yourself in the 13th century rock fortress. Admire the intricately carved staircases, sculptures, and pillars that showcase the beauty of Kandyan art. Experience the tranquility of the Buddhist monastery and witness the incredible views from the Elephant Rock. This private tour offers an immersive and educational journey through Sri Lanka's ancient kingdoms, providing a truly unforgettable travel experience.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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12 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Explore Sri Lanka's ancient kingdoms on a private tour from Kandy, visiting historic sites with a knowledgeable guide for a personalized experience.
Included
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Transport by an air-conditioned vehicle.
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Hotel pickup and drop-off from Kandy Hotels.
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Service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.
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1-Liter Water Bottle Per Person.
Excluded
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Entrance fees.
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Gratuities.
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Food and beverages.
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
You will be starting the tour from your hotel at 6:00am. You will be travelling for 2.5 hours to get to Panduwasnuwara. If you bring a packed breakfast, you can use the time to have it since you won’t be stopping for a break before lunch. You will get to Panduwasnuwara at 8:30am. The kingdom of Panduwasnuwara flourished between 504 BC and 474 BC. Believed to be established by the King Panduvasudev, the city was abandoned till the 12th century, when it became known as Parakamapura. The ruins that stand today are mainly from that era. Some of the notable sights you will get to see are the ruins of the magnificent royal palace, the remains of the 297 feet wide tower with its extremely thick walls which have many legends surrounding them, the recently restored former temple of the tooth relic and Panda Wewa which is believed to be one of the very first irrigation systems built in the world.
You will travel to Yapahuwa at 10:00am and get there by 11:30 am. You will spend two hours viewing the 13th century rock fortress of Yapahuwa. The fortress played the part of being the last stand of King Bhuvenakabahu, when the Dravidians invaded from India. He attempted to save the Holy Tooth Relic of Buddha there, but the move failed to protect it as it was stolen by the Pandyans immediately following his death. The tooth relic was recovered the year after, but was placed in Polonnaruwa instead. The fortress as you see it now is a beautiful work of art with neatly carved grand staircases, interesting sculptures and pillars. After the fall of the kingdom the fortress was used as a monastery by Buddhist monks. The remains of the stupa that they used can still be seen on the summit of the rock. The stupa contains paintings and Buddha statues from the Kandyan era. At 1:30pm you will finish your visit of the fortress and go for lunch. You can spend approximately an hour and a half enjoying your meal before you return back to Kandy. You will visit the Elephant Rock, ‘Ethagala’, en route. The rock which has a rough shape of an elephant, has some fantastic views from the top, as well as a newly created giant Buddha statue. You will get back to your hotel in Kandy by 6:30pm, completing your tour.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Pack breakfast for the journey.
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Lunch at a local restaurant in Yapahuwa.
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Bring comfortable walking shoes.
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Consider visiting the nearby Elephant Rock.
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Stay hydrated, it's a long day!
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience the wonders of Sri Lanka's ancient kingdoms on the captivating 2-Ancient Kingdoms Private Tour from Kandy. This tour takes you on a journey through time, allowing you to explore the rich history and architectural marvels of three ancient kingdoms in the Northwestern Province. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure as you delve into the royal palace complex, behold the majestic Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, and immerse yourself in the ancient city of Panduwasnuwara.What to expect?
During this immersive tour, you can expect a captivating journey through Sri Lanka's ancient past. You'll have the unique opportunity to witness the ruins of the Panduwasnuwara Kingdom, with its magnificent royal palace and enigmatic legends. The Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, a 13th-century marvel, will leave you awe-struck with its intricate sculptures and grand staircases. As you explore these ancient kingdoms, you'll unearth the history embedded within their walls and gain a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage.Who is this for?
This tour is designed for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone passionate about exploring the hidden gems of the past. Whether you're a history buff intrigued by ancient civilizations or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this tour will captivate your imagination. Suitable for individuals, couples, and families, this experience offers a unique opportunity to discover the lesser-known treasures of Sri Lanka.Why book this?
Uncover the mysteries of Sri Lanka's ancient kingdoms through this exclusive private tour. Delve into the fascinating history of Panduwasnuwara, a once-thriving city with ruins that span over two millennia. Ascend the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, witnessing its remarkable sculptures and panoramic views from the summit. As you explore these majestic sites, you'll be transported back in time and gain a profound appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.Good to know
Important details to note are that the total duration of this tour is 720 minutes, beginning at 6:00 am from your hotel in Kandy and concluding back at your hotel at 6:30 pm. Lunch will be provided, offering you an opportunity to savor the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine amidst the enchanting surroundings of this ancient land. Don't miss the chance to visit the Elephant Rock, 'Ethagala,' along the route, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and admire a newly created giant Buddha statue.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced the 2-Ancient Kingdoms Private Tour from Kandy have expressed awe at the historical significance and beauty of the Panduwasnuwara Kingdom and Yapahuwa Rock Fortress. They were amazed by the intricacy of the sculptures and fascinated by the stories surrounding these ancient sites. Visitors appreciated the knowledgeable guides who provided valuable insights into the history of each location. Overall, reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction, with many considering this tour a highlight of their Sri Lankan adventure.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is