Matale Highlands and Cooking Experience from Dambulla
Dambulla, LK
Highlights
- Explore the historic and mysterious Nalanda Gedige
- Discover the ancient rock temple Aluvihara
- Learn about spices and watch a cooking demo at Euphoria Spice and Herbal
- Enjoy the spectacular views of Sembuwatta Lake at sunset
- Visit three lesser-known but amazing locations in Matale
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10-hour private experience
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Includes hotel pickup/drop-off
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Cooking demo with traditional lunch
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Air-conditioned vehicle transport
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Expert English-speaking guide
Experience the hidden gems of Matale on this thrilling tour. Begin your journey at the enigmatic Nalanda Gedige, an ancient Hindu temple with Buddhist influences. Marvel at the intricate architecture and intriguing sculptures that tell a mysterious tale. Next, visit the Aluvihara Rock Cave Temple, where the Buddhist religious script was created. Explore the caves and uncover the fascinating history within. Then, immerse yourself in the aromatic world of spices and herbs at the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens. Learn about their cultivation and witness a traditional cooking demo that will leave your taste buds tingling. Finally, end your day on a high note at the breathtaking Sembuwatta Lake, where you can capture stunning sunset views and even take a dip in its natural swimming pool. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience in Matale.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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10 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Self-guided
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Family friendly
Explore Matale's rich culture with a cooking experience, visiting historic sites and enjoying a scenic sunset at Sembuwatta Lake.
Included
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Cooking demo with traditional lunch. -
Service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.
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Transport by a private air-conditioned vehicle.
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2 x 500 ml water bottles per person.
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Hotel pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Damblla.
Excluded
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Expenses of personal nature. -
Food and beverages.
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Gratuities.
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Entrance tickets to the visiting sites. (sembuwatte lake, nalanda gedige, and matale alu viharaya)
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Dambulla, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its majestic cave temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carved into a vast granite outcrop, these caves house ancient statues and vibrant frescoes depicting Buddha's life. Beyond its cultural allure, Dambulla captivates visitors with its lush greenery and serene surroundings. The town offers a tranquil escape, inviting exploration of its rich history and natural beauty amidst the island's central plains.
Nalanda Gedige is an old Dravidian (Pallava era) structure believed to have been built between the 8th to 10th centuries. At first view, it’s an obviously Hindu temple from the detailed wall and roof architecture, to the little windowless main shrine. However, the site’s erotic tantric sculptures, along with its plain moonstone, point to a more Buddhist origin.
30 minutes
Admission Not Included
Europia Spice Garden Start your visit with a 1 to 1.5-hour tour of the spice and herbal gardens. During the tour, you will learn more about the gardens’ different spices and herbs, as well as how they are grown and harvested and watch a traditional cooking demo that puts them to good use.
90 minutes
Admission Not Included
Aluvihara is most famous as the place of creation of the Buddhist religious script ‘Tripitaka’. The stupa is literally built on top of a large rock. Meanwhile, the rock itself is riddled with a cave system. So far 13 caves have been found, with much more buried under old cave-ins. You will have to climb up and through the rock to see the historic and interesting insides of these caves and learn more about the history within.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
You can return to Kandy at this time, or opt for a sunset visit to Sembuwatta Lake located in the Elkaduwa area. You will get there by 4:30 pm. Sembuwatta is an artificial lake made from a natural spring in the area. It’s famed for its amazing views and natural swimming pool. You will be spending a relaxing hour here, allowing you to take some spectacular photos with the setting sun.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
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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A maximum of 8 people per booking -
Comfortable walking shoes and hats are recommended
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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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Wear comfortable shoes for walking -
Try the herbal tea at Euphoria Garden
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Capture sunset photos at Sembuwatta Lake
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Visit nearby markets for local spices
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Bring a hat, it can get hot outdoors
More About this Experience
Introduction
Escape to the enchanting Matale Highlands on a captivating tour that showcases the hidden gems of this picturesque region. The Matale Highlands and Cooking Experience from Dambulla takes you on a journey to three lesser-known yet extraordinary locations. Embark on a fascinating exploration of Nalanda Gedige, a mystifying ancient temple with a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences. Immerse yourself in the world of spices at the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens in Matale, where you'll learn about their cultivation and enjoy a delightful cooking demonstration. Discover the secrets of Aluvihara, a rock cave temple steeped in history and spirituality. Finally, bask in the breathtaking beauty of Sembuwatta Lake at sunset, capturing unforgettable moments amidst nature's splendor.What to expect?
During the Matale Highlands and Cooking Experience, you can anticipate a day filled with wonder, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. Delve into the past as you explore the intricacies of Nalanda Gedige, marveling at its exquisite architecture and contemplating the fusion of different religions. At the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens, prepare to be enthralled by the fragrant scents and vivid flavors of various spices, gaining insight into their origin and cultivation. Witness the enchanting rock caves of Aluvihara and learn about their significance in Buddhist history. Finally, indulge in the serenity of Sembuwatta Lake, a hidden gem that promises awe-inspiring views and the chance to capture unforgettable memories against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset.Who is this for?
The Matale Highlands and Cooking Experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and food lovers alike. Whether you're a curious traveler seeking immersive cultural encounters or a passionate photographer in search of stunning landscapes, this tour caters to a wide range of interests and preferences. From solo adventurers to groups of friends or families, everyone can enjoy the wonders of Matale. Embrace the spirit of exploration and embark on this journey to discover the hidden treasures that this remarkable region has to offer.Why book this?
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Matale's rich history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and tantalizing flavors. This captivating tour is meticulously designed to offer a unique and memorable experience. You'll have the opportunity to explore the lesser-known attractions of Nalanda Gedige, Aluvihara, and Sembuwatta Lake, avoiding the crowds often associated with more popular destinations. As you delve into the secrets of these fascinating locations, you'll feel a deep connection to the past and gain a profound appreciation for the beauty of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage. Additionally, the opportunity to visit the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens, where you'll witness a traditional cooking demonstration, provides a delightful way to engage with the local cuisine and learn more about the flavors that make Sri Lankan dishes so extraordinary.Good to know
As you embark on this incredible journey, it's important to note that the duration of the Matale Highlands and Cooking Experience is approximately 600 minutes. During this time, you'll delve into the wonders of Nalanda Gedige, spend time exploring Aluvihara's rock cave temple, enjoy a guided tour of the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens, and unwind at the serene Sembuwatta Lake. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural significance of each location, and bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas and unforgettable moments along the way. Rest assured, this extraordinary experience will leave you with a lasting and vibrant memory of the Matale Highlands.Reviews
Customers rave about the Matale Highlands and Cooking Experience, sharing their awe and appreciation for the hidden gems of Matale. They highlight the knowledgeable guides who offer insightful commentary and make the tour both educational and enjoyable. Many travelers express their fascination with the unique combination of Hindu and Buddhist elements at Nalanda Gedige, which adds an intriguing layer of complexity to their visit. The Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens receive high praise for providing an immersive and engaging experience, where visitors can witness the diverse array of spices and herbs up close and even participate in a traditional cooking demonstration. The visit to Aluvihara's rock cave temple is often described as a mesmerizing exploration of Sri Lanka's religious heritage. Finally, the enchanting sunset at Sembuwatta Lake consistently captures the hearts of travelers, leaving them in awe of its natural beauty. Overall, visitors testify to the captivating nature of this tour, which offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural splendor.
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