ONE DAY ESCAPE - highlights drive
One day escape - start Kandy
Here we present our one day escape tours. These pages are always updated. If you still can't find what you're looking for, please contact us – we're happy to help.
Temple of the Tooth
Early morning visit to experience the temple’s calm atmosphere before the crowds.
• Highlights: sacred tooth relic, ornate halls, ceremonial drums in the courtyard.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes
Kandy City View Point
Short drive to a lookout for a panoramic landing of Kandy’s lake, temples, and hills.
• Quick photo stop and city orientation.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes
Ambalangoda-ish stop or Asgiriya Temple (optional)
If you’d like a quick spiritual stop, you can include Asgiriya Temple for a peaceful view and temple atmosphere.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes
Sigiria
Drive toward Sigiriya with a scenic mid-morning tea break
• En route, enjoy views of tea estates and rural Sri Lanka. Short refreshment stop as needed.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes
Lion Rock
Arrive at Sigiriya Rock. You can choose from:
• Climb the fortress (about 1.5–2 hours, depending on pace)
• Or admire from the base and visit the surrounding gardens if you prefer a lighter option
• Highlights: ancient frescoes, hydraulic systems, panoramic summit views, vast fortress complex.
• Note: The climb is steep with steps; wear sturdy footwear and bring water.
Lunch break (on-site or nearby)
• Traditional Sri Lankan curry or local dishes; options near Sigiriya Rock or a short drive to a village restaurant.
Dambulla Cave Temple (optional)
If time allows and you’re interested in a secondary temple stop, a quick visit to Dambulla Cave Temple for its expansive cave shrine complex (requires extra driving time and may adjust pacing).
Matale or Aluvihara (optional extension)
• If you’re a tea lover, stop at a tea processing center or a spice garden on the way back toward Kandy.
Return: Late afternoon/early evening
• Return to your hotel in central Kandy or continue to your next destination (e.g., Habarana, Sigiriya area stays, or Sigiriya town to sleep).
Pratical tips
• Weather: Sigiriya can be hot; bring water, sunscreen, hat. Early start helps avoid heat.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes for the Sigiriya ascent.
• Dress modestly for temples (cover shoulders and knees).
• Pace: The Sigiriya climb is optional if you want a lighter day; it’s feasible with careful pacing.
• Transport: A comfortable car/van with a driver-guide who is familiar with hill-country roads is ideal.
Want to get the most out of Kandy and the surrounding area? Follow me on Instagram and get in touch!
I'm looking forward to meet you!
Yaniya
