Explore the hidden gems of Matale Highlands on this tour from Dambulla. Discover the mysterious Nalanda Gedige, learn about spices at Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens, visit the ancient rock temple Aluvihara, and enjoy breathtaking sunset views at Sembuwatta Lake.
Explore the hidden gems of Matale Highlands on this tour from Dambulla. Discover the mysterious Nalanda Gedige, learn about spices at Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens, visit the ancient rock temple Aluvihara, and enjoy breathtaking sunset views at Sembuwatta Lake.
- Dambulla - Situated in the heart of Sri Lanka, Dambulla is celebrated for its magnificent cave temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves, carved into a massive granite outcrop, contain ancient statues and vibrant frescoes illustrating Buddha’s life. In addition to its cultural charm, Dambulla enchants visitors with its lush…
- Dambulla - Situated in the heart of Sri Lanka, Dambulla is celebrated for its magnificent cave temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves, carved into a massive granite outcrop, contain ancient statues and vibrant frescoes illustrating Buddha’s life. In addition to its cultural charm, Dambulla enchants visitors with its lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. The town provides a serene retreat, inviting exploration of its rich history and natural beauty amidst the island’s central plains.
- Nalanda Gedige - Nalanda Gedige is an ancient Dravidian (Pallava era) structure thought to have been constructed between the 8th and 10th centuries. At first glance, it appears to be a Hindu temple due to its intricate wall and roof architecture and the small windowless main shrine. However, the site’s erotic tantric sculptures, along with its simple moonstone, suggest a more Buddhist origin.
- Euphoria Spice and Herbal - Euphoria Spice Garden
Begin your visit with a 1 to 1.5-hour tour of the spice and herbal gardens. During the tour, you will discover more about the gardens’ various spices and herbs, as well as how they are cultivated and harvested, and watch a traditional cooking demonstration that showcases their use.
- Aluvihara Rock Cave Temple - Aluvihara is renowned as the birthplace of the Buddhist religious script ‘Tripitaka’. The stupa is literally constructed atop a large rock, which is riddled with a cave system. To date, 13 caves have been discovered, with many more buried under old cave-ins. Visitors must climb up and through the rock to explore the historic and fascinating interiors of these caves and learn more about the history within.
- Sembuwaththa Lake - Visitors can return to Kandy at this time or choose a sunset visit to Sembuwatta Lake located in the Elkaduwa area, arriving by 4:30 pm. Sembuwatta is an artificial lake created from a natural spring in the area. It is renowned for its stunning views and natural swimming pool. Visitors will spend a relaxing hour here, capturing spectacular photos with the setting sun.

- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Dambulla
- Private air-conditioned transport
- English-speaking chauffeur guide
- Two 500 ml water bottles per person
- Cooking demo and traditional lunch included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Dambulla
- Private air-conditioned transport
- English-speaking chauffeur guide
- Two 500 ml water bottles per person
- Cooking demo and traditional lunch included
- Entrance tickets to the visiting sites. (Sembuwatte Lake, Nalanda Gedige, and Matale Alu Viharaya)
- Food and beverages.
- Expenses of personal nature.
- Gratuities.
- Entrance tickets to the visiting sites. (Sembuwatte Lake, Nalanda Gedige, and Matale Alu Viharaya)
- Food and beverages.
- Expenses of personal nature.
- Gratuities.
This tour takes you to three lesser-known, yet incredible, locations in the Matale area. First, you will explore the beautiful, historic, and enigmatic Nalanda Gedige. Next, enjoy a delightful visit to the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens in Matale, where you will learn about spices and watch a traditional cooking demonstration that showcases their…
This tour takes you to three lesser-known, yet incredible, locations in the Matale area. First, you will explore the beautiful, historic, and enigmatic Nalanda Gedige. Next, enjoy a delightful visit to the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens in Matale, where you will learn about spices and watch a traditional cooking demonstration that showcases their use. Then, delve into the ancient and secretive rock temple, Aluvihara. Finally, end your tour with a visit to the breathtaking Sembuwatta Lake at sunset, offering stunning views.
SKU: LK60061400
- A maximum of 8 people per booking
- Comfortable walking shoes and hats are recommended
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.