Discover Kandy’s hidden gems: explore ancient temples, meet artisans, and enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine on this immersive cultural day tour.
Discover Kandy’s hidden gems: explore ancient temples, meet artisans, and enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine on this immersive cultural day tour.
- Pilimathalawa - Explore a traditional, family-operated brass workshop in a serene village near Kandy. This is a hands-on, small-scale operation, not a factory, where age-old techniques are still practiced. Observe the preparation of raw materials, the operation of a handmade furnace, and the process of pouring molten brass into molds, joining,…
- Pilimathalawa - Explore a traditional, family-operated brass workshop in a serene village near Kandy. This is a hands-on, small-scale operation, not a factory, where age-old techniques are still practiced. Observe the preparation of raw materials, the operation of a handmade furnace, and the process of pouring molten brass into molds, joining, polishing, and crafting beautiful artifacts. Discover the cultural importance of brass in Sri Lanka, from ancient temples to daily life. This experience provides a unique insight into the country’s artisan heritage and supports the local community. After the demonstration, visit a small showroom to view or purchase finished items directly from the artisans.
- Temple of the Gadaladenia - Explore the historic Gadaladeniya Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple constructed in the 14th century during the Gampola Kingdom. Situated on a rocky hilltop with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, this temple is renowned for its unique blend of South Indian Dravidian architecture and Sinhala artistic elements. Admire its stone carvings, wooden pillars, and ancient paintings that have endured through the centuries. Learn about its history, spiritual significance, and cultural value. A tranquil and less-visited site, Gadaladeniya offers a quiet, authentic experience away from the tourist crowds, ideal for travelers seeking cultural depth and scenic beauty.
- Hepana - Visit a small-scale weaving workshop that empowers rural women through traditional craftsmanship. These community-run workshops utilize eco-friendly wooden looms and manually operated machines—some of which still function without electricity. Observe how locally produced threads are woven into handkerchiefs, pillowcases, sarees, and more. Learn about Sri Lanka’s textile heritage, the techniques passed down through generations, and how these workshops help sustain village livelihoods. This is a meaningful stop that highlights community tourism and allows you to connect with the people behind the craft.
- Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya - Discover the majestic Lankathilaka Temple, a 14th-century architectural masterpiece built on a natural rock outcrop. Known for its stunning fusion of Sinhalese and South Indian design, this temple features beautifully carved stone steps, intricate wooden doorways, and centuries-old murals depicting Buddhist stories. The temple’s elevated setting offers panoramic views of lush rice fields and misty hills. As you walk through the temple grounds, admire its rich history, religious significance, and unique construction techniques. A peaceful and culturally rich stop, ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts.
- Embekka Devalaya - Visit Embekka Devalaya, a 14th-century temple celebrated for its exceptional wood carvings—considered some of the finest in Sri Lanka. Dedicated to the guardian deity Kataragama, the temple features intricately carved wooden pillars, beams, and brackets, each showcasing unique floral, animal, and human motifs. Learn the history and symbolism behind the carvings, which reflect both Buddhist and local folklore influences. Along the roadside near the temple, you can also see small artisan workshops where locals handcraft wooden masks, sculptures, and souvenirs using traditional tools and techniques. This stop beautifully blends cultural heritage with living craft traditions.
- Buwelikada - Savor an authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch served in a tranquil village setting. Prepared by a local host using fresh, seasonal ingredients, your meal includes a variety of traditional curries, sambols, and accompaniments, followed by locally sourced fruits. You’ll also have the option to join a brief cooking demonstration, where you can learn how to prepare classic dishes like coconut sambol or dry fish curry using time-honored techniques. This is more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity to connect with local food culture and experience true Sri Lankan hospitality.
- Muruthagahamula - Enter a traditional drum-making workshop in a rural village where the ancient art of crafting Sri Lankan drums is still thriving. Passed down through generations, this family-run workshop produces a variety of traditional percussion instruments used in Kandyan, Sabaragamu, and Low Country dances. Learn how different types of wood are selected and carved, how animal skins are prepared and stretched to create the drum heads, and how each drum is tuned by hand. This immersive visit offers a rare opportunity to witness the cultural heartbeat of Sri Lanka and support the artisans preserving this time-honored skill.

- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Admission fees
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Admission fees
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses (e.g., snacks, additional drinks, personal shopping)
- Weekend visit to the weaving workshop (not operational on weekends)
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses (e.g., snacks, additional drinks, personal shopping)
- Weekend visit to the weaving workshop (not operational on weekends)
Venture beyond the typical tourist path and immerse yourself in genuine village life, ancient temples, and traditional craftsmanship with this engaging rural Kandy day tour. Unlike standard city tours, this adventure delves into the core of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Visit family-operated brass and drum workshops, a weaving workshop, meet the…
Venture beyond the typical tourist path and immerse yourself in genuine village life, ancient temples, and traditional craftsmanship with this engaging rural Kandy day tour. Unlike standard city tours, this adventure delves into the core of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Visit family-operated brass and drum workshops, a weaving workshop, meet the artisans, and directly support local communities. Discover hidden gems like the Gadaladeniya, Lankathilaka, and Embekka temples, celebrated for their rich history and breathtaking architecture. Enjoy a traditional rice and curry lunch, lovingly prepared by a local host in a serene village setting.
This private, adaptable tour includes hotel pickup and local interactions, perfect for travelers seeking eco-friendly, culturally enriching experiences away from the usual routes. Support community tourism and return with not just souvenirs, but memorable stories.
Upon request, visits to Ambuluwawa Tower, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, or the Temple of the Tooth Relic can be arranged.
- If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance so we can arrange your lunch accordingly.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.