Guided Tour of Kandy: Gods, Kings & Men

Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination for families. Remote villages to explore, national parks to visit and leopards to find, tuk tuks to take through ancient temples – the list is endless. Through this itinerary you’ll be able to experience all the highlights with a great combination of wildlife, adventure and culture before finishing up with some relaxing time on the beach, making sure that everyone is kept entertained.

Goatfell is a beautiful and intimate 4 bedroom bungalow retreat located in the heart of the hill country on a working tea estate. Recently opened, this is a hugely exciting addition to the Hill Country and a great base from which to explore.

98 Acres is located on a scenic tea estate in the hillside town of Ella. A eco-friendly retreat, it has been built almost entirely out of recycled materials. With chalets nestled into its lush green surroundings, enjoy views out over the southern plains.

Thotalagala is a former 19th century plantation bungalow which has been lovingly converted into a luxurious boutique hotel in the east of the hill country.

The Kandy House is a restored ancestral home set in the hills on the edge on the historical city. Spend the days sightseeing in and around Kandy, or simply lazing in the tropical gardens by the infinity pool, being truly spoiled by the fantastic staff.

Clinging to a tea covered hill, with beautiful views over the hill country Nine Skies offers an intimate stay in a newly refurbished tea bungalow.

Built in 1926, Roysth Estate is an old colonial planter’s bungalow set on a 62-acre private working tea and rubber estate. This charming property offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of rural Sri Lanka.

Santani is Sri Lanka's first dedicated spa resort which has brought luxury wellness to Sri Lanka. Set in the tranquil hills just over an hour from Kandy, Santani provides a relaxing and rejuvenating environment, and a variety of spa and wellness packages.

Ceylon Tea Trails consists of five old colonial bungalows which have been converted into luxurious accommodation. The scenery is spectacular and guests can walk between the bungalows meeting the locals or simply relax in the beautiful gardens.

Kings Pavilion is based just 15 minutes outside the center of Kandy, a bustling town which is home to the Temple of the Tooth. Situated on a hill side this boutique hotel gives great views down over the valley and town below.

The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, Kandy, is renowned for its wide variety of plant species

and beautiful flowers. Of particular note is the collection of a variety of orchids.

Head a little more off the beaten track to explore some of Sri Lanka's more historically and architecturally interesting temples. Gadaladeniya, Embekke and Lankathilaka are set away from the main tourist trail but are still easily accessible from Kandy.

This is a must for trekking enthusiasts, who will love the striking landscapes and ever-changing fauna on this 4-5 hour trek from Illukkumbura to Riverston. Expect sweeping panoramas and waterfalls in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The 2 hour train journey to Hatton is a glorious way to see the rolling countryside from your observation car, as you climb into the hills and tea plantations.

This evening you will visit The Temple of the Tooth. The stunning 17th-century Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is believed to house the left upper canine tooth of the Lord Buddha himself.

During your stay in the Hill Country, explore the tea plantations where you can see the tea pluckers at work, visit a tea factory, or go for a walk through the rolling green hills.

Explore Ella with your chauffeur guide. Ella is blessed with some of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular views. On this tour you will visit Ella Gap, Ravana Ella Falls, Little Adam’s Peak, Ravana Cave and Bambaragala Park.

Visit the colorful market in Kandy for textiles, as well as a lively atmosphere.