Guided Tour of Kandy: Gods, Kings & Men

Walk among emerald hills at Ceylon Tea Trails, where restored tea-planters’ bungalows, bespoke service and rich plantation heritage invite you to slow down, savour exquisite teas and live the timeless rhythm of Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands.

Camellia Hills is a luxurious five-bedroom bungalow nestled in Sri Lanka's tea plantations. It has a dining room, two lounge areas, and a swimming pool. The bungalow boasts breathtaking views across the Castlereagh Reservoir.

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.

Kings Pavilion is based just 15 minutes outside the centre 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.

Originally owned by a Kandyan family, the Stone House was fully refurbished in 2014 by its new owners and is now a five-bedroom boutique villa offering luxurious accommodation, a private setting and a personalised service.

An airport hotel with a difference, this boutique gem is a destination in itself with stylish rooms, mouth watering food and an exquisite atmosphere.

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.

Adigar's Manor 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.

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.

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.

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.

Embark on the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka's first long-distance hike from Hanthana to Nuwara Eliya, guided by a local expert, as you traverse stunning tea plantations, iconic landmarks, and diverse landscapes.

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.

Travel through Kandy's unique landscape of hills and rivers, exploring its colonial history and religious sites, riding a tuk tuk to scenic hills and markets, and concluding with delicious treats and Ceylon tea with breathtaking city views.

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.

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.

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

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.