Why choose this Anuradhapura tour ?
This tour takes you to three lesser knows, but amazing, locations in the area of Matale. You will first view the beautiful, historic and completely mysterious Nalanda Gedige. Then you will have a fun-filled visit in the form of the Euphoria Spice and Herbal Gardens in Matale, where you learn more about spices and watch a traditional cooking demo that puts them to good use. You will then move onto a serious note with the secretive and ancient rock temple Aluvihara. Finally, you will visit the spectacular Sembuwatta Lake at sunset, making for some amazing views.
Make the most of your Anuradhapura adventure
What makes Matale Highlands and Cooking Experience from Habarana a unique experience ?
Habarana, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, is a picturesque town renowned for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene lakes, it serves as a gateway to several iconic attractions including the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the majestic Sigiriya rock fortress. Visitors to Habarana can immerse themselves in the rich history of the region while enjoying adventurous activities such as wildlife safaris in nearby national parks. Its tranquil ambiance and proximity to key landmarks make it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tour Description & Additional Info:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Options To Choose for Your Trip:
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Pickup included
Matale Highlands and Cooking Experience from Habarana Inclusions:
Included with Your Ticket
- 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.
Not Included
- Entrance tickets to the visiting sites.
- Food and beverages.
- Expenses of personal nature.
- Gratuities.
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Special Instructions:
- This Tour is Provided by Lakpura LLC.
- Tour Timezone & Starts at Asia/Colombo.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
- Maximum 8 Travelers is accepted for booking.
