9 Fantastic 2-Day Tours In Kandy

Kandy is a fantastic base for exploring Sri Lanka’s hill country in just a couple of days. Its mix of sacred sites, lush landscapes, and vibrant local culture makes it an ideal starting point for short getaways. Whether you’re eager to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth or hike through the Knuckles Mountain Range, Kandy offers diverse experiences that can fit into a 2-day itinerary. We especially love tours that blend cultural highlights with scenic adventures, like the Colombo: Private 2-Day Cultural Triangle Tour with Sigiriya, which combines UNESCO World Heritage Sites with ancient cities and spice gardens.

With options ranging from comprehensive cultural trips to scenic nature hikes, our list reflects what makes Kandy such a versatile destination. Some tours focus on visiting historic temples and royal gardens, while others offer scenic train rides and mountain camping. Whatever your interest, you’ll find an experience that fits your schedule and budget.

1. Colombo: Private 2-Day Cultural Triangle Tour with Sigiriya

For those wanting to explore the highlights of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, this private 2-day tour hits the mark. Starting from Colombo, it includes visits to notable historic sites like Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. The trip is organized with a knowledgeable guide, which makes navigating the busy sites easier and more informative.

One of the most remarkable parts of this tour is the chance to climb Sigiriya and see the ancient frescoes and water gardens, which are truly breathtaking. The tour also includes a visit to the Dambulla Golden Temple, home to stunning murals and Buddha statues, and a spice garden in Matale, where you can learn about Sri Lanka’s famed cinnamon, pepper, and cardamom. The tour’s reviews praise guides like Jayaweera for their storytelling and professionalism. With a price of $277 per person, it offers great value for travelers wanting a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture.

Bottom line: This tour is perfect for history buffs and culture lovers who want a guided, well-rounded experience of the Cultural Triangle.

2. 2-Day Scenic Tour from Kandy to Ramboda & Nuwara Eliya

If your idea of a perfect escape involves tea plantations, waterfalls, and mountain lakes, this tour is a solid choice. It combines visits to the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, the Royal Botanical Garden, and scenic stops at Ramboda Waterfall and Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya. The highlight is the drive through lush tea estates and the opportunity to visit a working tea factory, where you see the process from plucking to packaging.

This trip balances sightseeing with relaxing moments, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of hill-country scenery without intense hiking. The tour’s reviews note the comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides, making the experience hassle-free. At $149 per person, it’s a good value for anyone wanting an overview of Sri Lanka’s famous tea-growing region combined with cultural sites.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers interested in scenic landscapes and botanical beauty with a relaxed pace.

3. 2 Day Tour: Kandy, Ambuluwawa and Sigiriya

This tour combines visits to Kandy’s Sacred Tooth Temple, the Ambuluwawa Multi-Religious Tower, and Sigiriya. It offers a nice mix of cultural sites and panoramic views. The highlight is climbing the Ambuluwawa Tower, which provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and a chance to learn about Sri Lanka’s multi-religious heritage.

The tour involves a mix of guided sightseeing and informal tuk-tuk rides, making it suitable for travelers who want flexibility and variety. Since reviews aren’t specified, it’s best for those who like to see a few key sites in a short time and enjoy a mix of cultural and scenic experiences. Prices are low at $44 per person, making it an affordable option for budget travelers.

Bottom line: An active, flexible option for those wanting to combine religious sites with scenic viewpoints.

4. 2 days Sri Lanka: All-inclusive tour to Ella and Yala with 4-star hotel

For travelers seeking comfort and adventure in a short trip, this all-inclusive package is hard to beat. Starting in Kandy, it includes visits to the Nine-Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall, and Temple of the Tooth. It then moves to Yala National Park for a safari, with a relaxing overnight stay at a 4-star hotel in Ramboda.

This tour is ideal for those who want a mix of cultural sights, wildlife safaris, and mountain scenery without the hassle of planning every detail. The package covers tickets, water, and parking, making it excellent value at $347 per person. Guests rave about the private transportation and experienced guide, ensuring a smooth experience. The inclusion of a Yala safari and visits to iconic sites like the Ramboda Falls make this a comprehensive choice.

Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a full, hassle-free experience with comfort and wildlife included.

5. Kandy: 2-Day Tour Kandy ,Ambuluwawa Tower with Accommodation

This tour offers a balanced blend of cultural exploration and scenic mountain views. Starting with a pickup from Sigiriya or Habarana, it includes a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a walk in Peradeniya Gardens, and an evening cultural show. The highlight is climbing the Ambuluwawa Tower, which provides panoramic views of the region. Accommodation is in a 3-star hotel, with breakfast included.

The tour is well-suited for travelers interested in covering Kandyan culture and scenic viewpoints while enjoying comfortable lodging. The guide’s insights help deepen understanding of local traditions. At $191 per person, it offers a good mix of cultural highlights and scenic experiences, especially for those who appreciate overnight stays that include guided walks and cultural shows.

Bottom line: Ideal for cultural enthusiasts who also want a taste of mountain scenery.

6. Kandy & Nuwara Eliya: 2-Day Tour

This brief tour offers highlights of Kandy’s sacred sites and Nuwara Eliya’s lush hills. You’ll see waterfalls, explore tea plantations, and enjoy a boat ride on Gregory Lake. The focus is on hill country scenery and cultural landmarks, making it suitable for travelers with limited time who want a taste of both places.

While details on reviews aren’t provided, the focus on scenery and the inclusion of visits to popular sites makes it a solid option for those interested in scenic beauty and a relaxed itinerary.

Bottom line: Good for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.

7. Private Kandy 2-Day Train Tour with Ella, and Nuwara Eliya

This private tour combines the scenic hill train ride with visits to Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Kandy. It’s perfect for those who want a more personalized experience and to see Sri Lanka’s famous train routes. The journey over the Nine Arches Bridge and through tea country offers some of the most iconic images of hill Sri Lanka.

The trip includes a guided tour of the Botanical Garden and a visit to a tea plantation and factory. With a price of $399 per person, it’s more expensive but offers a highly personalized and scenic experience that is hard to beat for train enthusiasts or lovers of picturesque vistas.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers looking for a private, scenic train experience with cultural stops.

8. Explore Kandy & Nuwara Eliya in 2 days

This tour focuses on hill country sightseeing with visits to Kandy, tea plantations, and waterfalls. It’s designed to give a broad overview of Sri Lanka’s lush highlands in a short time. Details on reviews are limited, but the emphasis on scenic spots makes it good for those who want a quick scenic overview.

Bottom line: Suitable for travelers interested in general hill country highlights without a detailed schedule.

9. Kandy: Knuckles Mountain Range 2-Day Camping Tour

For the adventurous, this 2-day camping trip in the Knuckles Mountain Range offers hiking through the Five Peaks, exploration of the Ash Cave, and waterfalls like Kotaganga. Camping overnight in a pristine wilderness and enjoying local village food makes this a memorable outdoor experience.

Reviews aren’t specified, but the itinerary with hikes and camping appeals to active travelers craving real outdoor adventure. The tour features hikes of several hours, visits to waterfalls, and a night under the stars—something no other tour offers.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want to combine trekking, camping, and exploring remote natural beauty.

How to Choose Your 2-Day Kandy Tour

Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and activity level. If history and culture top your list, the Cultural Triangle offers an in-depth look at Sri Lanka’s ancient cities. For scenic beauty with less walking, the Ramboda and Nuwara Eliya tour balances relaxation with sightseeing.

Travelers seeking comfort and wildlife should consider the all-inclusive tour to Ella and Yala, which combines safari adventures with cultural sites. More active travelers will appreciate the Knuckles Mountain Range camping for its hiking and outdoor experience.

Thinking about scenic train rides? The private train tour offers breathtaking views and a personalized touch. Budget-conscious travelers might find the Ambuluwawa and Sigiriya trip appealing for its affordability and variety.

Kandy’s 2-day tours offer something for every traveler—whether it’s culture, scenic landscapes, outdoor adventure, or comfort and convenience. Planning ahead and choosing an experience that matches your interests will ensure a memorable visit. Be sure to book early, especially for popular tours, and enjoy exploring this beautiful part of Sri Lanka.

Happy travels!