Golden Temple Circuit
Full Day Cultural Tour
Explore ancient Buddhist temples and sacred sites in the Cultural Triangle
Duration
Full Day
Start Time
7:00 AM
Group Size
2-15 people
Price
$75
Journey through Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle visiting the most sacred and architecturally stunning Buddhist temples. This full-day tour takes you to Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO World Heritage), Nalanda Gedige, and the magnificent Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
Perfect for culture enthusiasts and spiritual seekers, this tour offers deep insights into Sri Lankan Buddhism, ancient art, and religious traditions spanning over 2,000 years.
7:00 AM - Departure from Hotel
Pickup from your hotel in Sigiriya, Dambulla, or Kandy area. Begin journey to the first temple.
8:00 AM - Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO Site)
Visit the magnificent Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to 1st century BC. Climb to the sacred caves housing:
- • 5 Cave Temples filled with Buddha statues
- • 153 Buddha images in various poses
- • Ancient murals covering 2,100 sq meters
- • Stunning panoramic views of surrounding countryside
Duration: 1.5 hours (includes climb and exploration)
10:00 AM - Nalanda Gedige Temple
Visit this unique temple showcasing the fusion of Hindu and Buddhist architecture (8th-10th century). Features:
- • Built entirely of stone without mortar
- • Tantric Buddhist influences
- • Picturesque location by reservoir
- • Excellent photo opportunities
Duration: 45 minutes
11:30 AM - Traditional Lunch
Enjoy authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry at a local restaurant with cultural ambiance.
1:00 PM - Drive to Kandy
Scenic drive through lush green hills and tea plantations. Photo stops at viewpoints.
3:00 PM - Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
Visit the most sacred Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, housing the relic of Buddha's tooth. Experience:
- • Tooth Relic Chamber (if puja ceremony is ongoing)
- • Ornate golden roof and architecture
- • Temple museum with royal artifacts
- • Traditional drummers and dancers (if lucky)
- • Kandy Lake views from temple premises
Duration: 1.5 hours
5:00 PM - Kandy City Walk (Optional)
Brief walk around Kandy Lake and local market area before return journey.
6:30 PM - Return to Hotel
Drop-off at your hotel with enriched understanding of Sri Lankan Buddhist heritage.
- • Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered (no shorts, sleeveless tops)
- • Footwear: Remove shoes before entering temple premises
- • Photography: Allowed in most areas, but no flash inside cave temples
- • Respectful Behavior: Speak softly, no pointing at Buddha statues
- • Head Position: Never turn your back directly to Buddha images
- • Puja Ceremony: Temple of Tooth puja times: 5:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 6:30 PM
- Hotel pickup & drop-off
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- English-speaking guide
- All temple entrance fees
- Lunch (rice & curry)
- Water bottles
- • Personal expenses
- • Tips for guide & driver
- • Donations at temples (optional)
- • Travel insurance
Experience Sacred Sri Lanka
Book your Golden Temple Circuit tour for an unforgettable cultural journey