- Nalanda Gedige - Nalanda Gedige is an old Dravidian (Pallava era) structure believed to have been built between the 8th to 10th century. 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. After viewing this structure and discussing it with your tour guide, you will leave for Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens.
- Euphoria Spice and Herbal - Europia Herbal Garden
Arrive at Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens by 11:45 am. 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.
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Aluvihara Rock Cave Temple - A religious complex that is believed to mean ‘light temple’ or ‘cave with light’ based on two different beliefs. Aluvihara is most famous as the place of creation of the Buddhist religious script ‘Triptaka’. 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.
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Sembuwaththa Lake - You can return to Kandy at this time, or opt for a sunset visit to 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. You will be spending a relaxing hour here, allowing you to take some spectacular photos with the setting sun.
- Service of an English speaking chauffeur guide.
- Transport in a private air conditioned vehicle.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Habarana.
- Cooking demo with traditional lunch.
- Entrance tickets to the visiting sites.
- Food and beverages.
- Expenses of personal nature.
- Gratuities.
(Item Number: LK60321400) Engage in a journey that takes you around three less visited yet spectacular places in the Matale vicinity. Your adventure begins with the ancient and enigmatic Nalanda Gedige. Followed by an exciting excursion to the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens in Matale where you get an in-depth understanding of various spices and witness a traditional cooking demonstration that effectively uses these spices. This culminates to a visit to the mysterious and historical rock temple, Aluvihara. Your journey concludes with a visit to the breathtaking Sembuwatta Lake during the sunset, offering stunning views.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
