Matale Tour: Nalanda Gedige, Spice Gardens, Aluvihara

Explore the enchanting Matale Highlands on this tour from Sigiriya. Visit the mysterious Nalanda Gedige, learn about spices at Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens, and discover the ancient rock temple Aluvihara. End the day with a breathtaking sunset at Sembuwatta Lake.

Duration: 10 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Sigiriya - Sigiriya, located in central Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock fortress. Rising dramatically 200 meters above the surrounding plains, Sigiriya is a remarkable testament to ancient engineering and architectural prowess. Also known as Lion Rock, it boasts exquisite frescoes, landscaped gardens, and the remnants of an extensive network of water gardens and reservoirs. The site offers visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
  • Nalanda Gedige - 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.
  • Euphoria Spice and Herbal - 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.

  • Aluvihara Rock Cave Temple - 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.
  • Sembuwatta Lake - 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.
What's Included
  • Service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.
  • Transport by a private air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Cooking demo with traditional lunch.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Sigiriya.
What's Not Included
  • Entrance tickets to the visiting sites. (Sembuwatte Lake, Nalanda Gedige)
  • Food and beverages.
  • Expenses of personal nature.
  • Gratuities.
Additional Information

This tour takes you to three lesser-known, yet incredible, locations in the Matale area. Begin with a visit to the beautiful, historic, and enigmatic Nalanda Gedige. Next, enjoy a delightful experience at the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens in Matale, where you can learn about spices and watch a traditional cooking demonstration that showcases their use. Then, explore the ancient and secretive rock temple Aluvihara. Finally, end your tour with a visit to the breathtaking Sembuwatta Lake at sunset, offering stunning views.

Location
Sigiriya
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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up to 8 guests
1
Adult
September 2024
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