From Kandy: Matale Region Tour
ID: GYG251992-436682
Category:
Country: Sri Lanka
Country: Sri Lanka
Duration: 11:00 hours
Description
Discover some of the lesser-known locations of Matale. See points of religious significance and local points of interest and serenity in the region.
Start your tour at 8:30 PM with pickup from your hotel in Kandy. Travel towards the first stop of the tour, Nalanda Gedige in Matale. Nalanda Gedige is an old Dravidian (Pallava era) structure believed to have been built between the 8th to 10th century. Upon first viewing, it appears to be a Hindu temple from the detailed wall and roof architecture, to the little windowless main shrine. However, the ruins of the erotic tantric sculptures, and plain moonstone point to a more Buddhist origin.
After viewing the Nalanda Gedige structure and discussing it with your tour guide, depart for the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens at approximately 10:30 PM. Once you arrive, receive a one hour tour of the spice and herbal gardens. During the tour, you will learn about the different spices and herbs, as well as how they are grown and harvested. You will leave the spice gardens at approximately 11:45 hrs for the rest of your tour.
Next stop is Aluvihara, which is most famous as the place of creation of the Buddhist religious script "Tripiṭaka". The stupa is built entirely on top of a large rock. Meanwhile, the rock itself contains a cave system. Climb up and through the rock to see the historic and interesting insides of the caves and learn more about the history within.
After an hour spent discovering the sights, you will leave Aluvihara at approximately 1:15 PM and spend some time having lunch at one of the restaurants in the area at your own expense. After lunch, visit Sembuwatta Lake located in the Elkaduwa area. Sembuwatta is an artificial lake made from a natural spring in the area. It’s famed for its amazing views and natural swimming pool. Spend a relaxing hour here, allowing you to take some spectacular photos with the setting sun. Leave the lake at 5:30 PM, and return to Kandy by 7:00 PM.
Start your tour at 8:30 PM with pickup from your hotel in Kandy. Travel towards the first stop of the tour, Nalanda Gedige in Matale. Nalanda Gedige is an old Dravidian (Pallava era) structure believed to have been built between the 8th to 10th century. Upon first viewing, it appears to be a Hindu temple from the detailed wall and roof architecture, to the little windowless main shrine. However, the ruins of the erotic tantric sculptures, and plain moonstone point to a more Buddhist origin.
After viewing the Nalanda Gedige structure and discussing it with your tour guide, depart for the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens at approximately 10:30 PM. Once you arrive, receive a one hour tour of the spice and herbal gardens. During the tour, you will learn about the different spices and herbs, as well as how they are grown and harvested. You will leave the spice gardens at approximately 11:45 hrs for the rest of your tour.
Next stop is Aluvihara, which is most famous as the place of creation of the Buddhist religious script "Tripiṭaka". The stupa is built entirely on top of a large rock. Meanwhile, the rock itself contains a cave system. Climb up and through the rock to see the historic and interesting insides of the caves and learn more about the history within.
After an hour spent discovering the sights, you will leave Aluvihara at approximately 1:15 PM and spend some time having lunch at one of the restaurants in the area at your own expense. After lunch, visit Sembuwatta Lake located in the Elkaduwa area. Sembuwatta is an artificial lake made from a natural spring in the area. It’s famed for its amazing views and natural swimming pool. Spend a relaxing hour here, allowing you to take some spectacular photos with the setting sun. Leave the lake at 5:30 PM, and return to Kandy by 7:00 PM.
Highlights
- Discover the Hindu-Buddhist fusion architecture of Nalanda Gedige
- Get a first-hand experience and knowledge about local spices and herbs, and how they are grown
- Explore the history of the rock temple, Aluvihara
- Enjoy a sunset visit to Sembuwatta Lake
- Enjoy a fully private tour in an air-conditioned vehicle
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• Drive time may change due to unpredictable road traffic
• Photography stops on the way can be arranged but within locations with reasonable parking areas
• It is recommended that you bring a packed breakfast with you if you are unable to have your meal at your hotel
All required protective equipment is provided
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
You will receive a mandatory temperature check
You must fill out a travel information form
Your private tour begins at 8:00 PM when your vehicle picks you up from your Kandy hotel.
• Photography stops on the way can be arranged but within locations with reasonable parking areas
• It is recommended that you bring a packed breakfast with you if you are unable to have your meal at your hotel
All required protective equipment is provided
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
You will receive a mandatory temperature check
You must fill out a travel information form
Your private tour begins at 8:00 PM when your vehicle picks you up from your Kandy hotel.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.