Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom from Dambulla
Dambulla, LK
Highlights
- Visit the ancient rock fortress of Yapahuwa
- Explore the remote and beautiful ruins of Sasseruwa
- Marvel at the perfectly sculpted Aukana Buddha Statue
- Learn about the historical significance of Sri Lanka
- Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off
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Duration 10 hours
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Private tour experience
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Air-conditioned transport
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English-speaking guide
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Includes 2 x 500 ml water
Experience the historic highlights of Sri Lanka with this captivating tour to the Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom from Dambulla. Marvel at the ancient rock fortress of Yapahuwa and explore the remote ruins of Sasseruwa, home to a giant unfinished standing Buddha statue. Be awed by the famous Aukana Buddha Statue, perfectly sculpted and exuding spiritual supremacy. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Sri Lanka as you journey through these remarkable sites. With the service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, you can relax and enjoy the journey. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for your convenience. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the fascinating past of Sri Lanka on this unforgettable tour.
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 the historic Yapahuwa Kingdom with a private tour, witnessing ancient rock fortresses and majestic Buddha statues in Sri Lanka.
Included
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OtherService of an English-speaking chauffeur guide. -
OtherTransport in an air-conditioned vehicle.
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OtherHotel pickup and drop-off.
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Other2 x 500 ml Water Bottle Per Person.
Excluded
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OtherMeals where not specified. -
GratuitiesGratuities
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OtherExpences of Personal Nature.
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, located in central Sri Lanka, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dambulla Cave Temple Complex. Carved into a massive granite rock, these ancient caves house over 150 stunning Buddha statues and vibrant frescoes dating back to the 1st century BCE. Serving as a spiritual sanctuary for over two millennia, Dambulla's caves offer visitors a glimpse into the island's rich cultural and religious history, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking enlightenment and cultural immersion.
Located in Kurunegala, belonging to the North Western Province of Sri Lanka, the Yapahuwa ancient fortress rises to a height of 90 m above the surrounding plains. Built by King Buwanekabahu the First, as the capital of Sri Lanka in 1301, today, the Royal residence, the Temple of Tooth Relic, the battle defenses are in ruins. The ruined walls of Yapahuwa form a rough semicircle. The ends join the foot of the high steepsided rocky granite outcrop. The outer fortification, an earthen rampart which extends to about a mile is about 20 feet in height. Over the rampart are the ruins of a brick wall that was erected to protect the interiors. Around the rampart was a moat. Access to the fortress was by means of the three gates that were connected to three causeways. Within this rampart was an inner fortification: a stone wall, 12 feet in height and about 500 yards long with a moat outside it and with two gates.
90 minutes
Admission Not Included
Reswehera (Sesseruwa) Rajamaha Viharaya | රැස්වෙහෙර (සැස්සේරුව) රජ මහා විහාරය
Rasvehera statue bears similar profiles to the Aukana Buddha statue. But there is a world of difference between the structures of these two Buddha statues. The Aukana Buddha statue is taller and stands 46 feet in height. while Sasseruwa is 36 feet in height. This Rasvehera statue is carved into a rectangular frame in the rock boulder without the head decoration; The Siraspatha but portrays dots for the hair. Aukana statue stands on an exquisite lotus symbol and the Rasvehera statue stands on a plain rectangular stone pedestal. The symbolic Mudras (gestures) depicted here differ from each other. In comparing all visual purposes, from the sculptured features on the Rasvehera Buddha statue it comes into view that it had been an unfinished state of sculpturing for reasons known only to this great unknown sculptor.
45 minutes
Admission Not Included
Avukana Buddha Statue
Aukana Buddha Statue in Asisa Mudra or the “posture of blessing” is carved out of a rock boulder. The statue is carved in the round connected to the back to the rock boulder. The delicate and skillful carving of the Buddha’s robe humanizes and chastely reveals the underlying form of his body, while the face’s impassive expression projects an aura of spiritual supremacy. It is said that the degree of alignment of the statue is such that raindrop on the nose would drop straight down to small depression carved between the toes. Aukana Buddha Statue is a masterpiece of a colossal Buddha Statue by an unknown sculptor: the serene expression of the statue, the gracefully carved robe with neat pleats brings in delicateness that could hardly be moulded into a rock. The impassive expression of the face reflects the supreme spirituality.
45 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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Not recommended for pregnant travelers -
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking. -
Bring a camera for stunning views.
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Pack a light snack for the trip.
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Consider visiting local markets afterward.
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Stay hydrated; it's a long day!
More About this Experience
Introduction:
Step into the rich history of Sri Lanka with the Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom tour. This captivating journey will take you to some of the country's most significant historic sites, showcasing the cultural heritage and architectural marvels that make this destination truly unique. From the ancient rock fortress of Yapahuwa to the awe-inspiring Aukana Buddha Statue, prepare to be transported back in time as you explore these fascinating landmarks.What to expect?
During this tour, you can anticipate immersing yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Marvel at the ancient rock fortress of Yapahuwa, which served as the capital of the island in the 13th century. Climb to the top and witness breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Discover the remote ruins of Sasseruwa, where a giant unfinished standing Buddha statue stands as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of ancient Sri Lankan sculptors. Finally, visit the famous Aukana Buddha Statue, a perfectly sculpted masterpiece that exudes serenity and spirituality.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone seeking to explore the hidden gems of Sri Lanka. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this experience will captivate your imagination and leave you with a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's ancient past. Embrace the opportunity to delve into the country's rich heritage and discover the stories behind these magnificent historical sites.Why book this?
Embark on this journey to unlock the secrets of Sri Lanka's past and immerse yourself in its captivating history. The Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the architectural wonders and cultural treasures that define this enchanting destination. Stand in awe of the colossal Aukana Buddha Statue, marvel at the intricate carvings, and feel a sense of tranquility wash over you. With the expertise of an English-speaking chauffeur guide and comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.Good to know:
During the tour, you will be provided with 2 x 500 ml water bottles per person, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout your exploration. Please note that meals are not included unless specified, and personal expenses are not covered. Keep in mind that gratuities are also not included. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you will be exploring ancient ruins and climbing to the top of the rock fortress. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking vistas and intricate details of these historical sites.Reviews:
Travelers who have embarked on the Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom tour have been left in awe of the historical wonders they encountered. They praised the knowledgeable chauffeur guide who provided valuable insights into the significance of each site. Visitors were particularly impressed by the Aukana Buddha Statue, describing it as a masterpiece of sculpting and a spiritual experience. Many highlighted the breathtaking views from the top of the Yapahuwa rock fortress, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Overall, the tour received high praise for its seamless organization, informative commentary, and the opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of Sri Lanka.
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