Kingdoms & Craftsmanship: A Journey Through Dambadeniya’s Legacy

Step back into the 13th century and discover the "Third Kingdom" of Sri Lanka, where ancient royalty meets living artistry.

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Hands On Carpentry:

At Woody's carpentry workshop, you will discover the magic behind Sri Lanka's rich tradition of carpentry, wood carving. Our sessions are led by local artisans from the Giriulla community, who will guide you through the process of creating something beautiful with your own hands.

You will learn how to handle traditional tools and shape wood into a meaningful piece of art that you can take home.

A Guided Journey into a Kingdom

Avoid the crowded tourist hubs and journey to the historic gateway of Giriulla, the scenic border where the Western and North Western provinces meet. This immersive tour takes you deep into the heart of the Dambadeniya Kingdom, a golden era of Sri Lankan history. You won't just see ruins; you will experience the heritage that still breathes in the hands of local artisans today.

Woodcraft & Heritage: Hands-on Carpentry Workshop in Sri Lanka /A Guided Journey into a Kingdom

Artisans' code: WD-OP3-X

Focus: Hands-on Carpentry Workshop in Sri Lanka, A Guided Journey into a Kingdom.

Your journey begins with a scenic ride from the main road, leading you deep into our riverside sanctuary. Step into the world of traditional Sri Lankan craftsmanship at Woody Land Artisans. This immersive workshop invites you to trade your camera for a hammer and paintbrush. Guided by our master carpenters, you will learn the art of fixing, cutting, and painting your own wooden souvenir, and learn basic carpentry techniques and tools.

Under expert guidance, you’ll transition from observer to creator. You will learn to cut, fix, and paint your very own wooden souvenir, ensuring you leave with more than just a memory—you’ll take home a piece of Sri Lankan heritage crafted by your own hands.

Riverside Lookout: Located in a lush green surrounding, a giant swing, experience the wilder side of our carpentry destination. Walk through our vegetable and fruit gardens and feel the rush on our giant river-view swing—perfect for photos—and enjoy a peaceful nature & river lookout through the local waterways.

After ending with Woody Land Artisans, Will take you to the guided journey into the Dambadeniya Kingdom. The Royal Ascent: Maliga Gala (Palace Rock). Your adventure begins with a walk through sacred grounds once guarded by ancient kings to protect the Tooth Relic.

Terms & Conditions

Artisans' code: WD-OP3-X

Focus: Hands-on Carpentry Workshop in Sri Lanka, A Guided Journey into a Kingdom.

1. Booking & Participation

Health & Fitness: By booking, participants confirm they are in good physical health. The ascent of Maliga Gala (Palace Rock) involves ancient stone steps and a moderate climb. This may not be suitable for individuals with heart conditions, severe vertigo, or mobility impairments.
Age Requirements: Children must be supervised by an adult at all times, particularly during the carpentry workshop and the rock hike.
Attire: Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are mandatory for the hike. For temple visits, modest dress (covering shoulders and knees) is required to respect local customs.

2. Workshop Safety (Woody Land Artisans)

Tool Usage: Participants will use sharp tools (saws, planes, hammers) and paints. All activities are performed at the participant's own risk.
Safety Gear: Usage of provided safety equipment (gloves, ear muffs, etc.) is highly recommended. Woody Land Artisans is not liable for minor injuries or stains on clothing resulting from standard workshop activities.
Conduct: Master artisans reserve the right to halt tool usage for any participant who does not follow safety instructions or appears impaired.

3. Transportation & Logistics

Meeting Point: Tours begin at the designated Giriulla Bridge/Gateway landmark unless otherwise arranged.
Inter-site Travel: Transportation between the workshop, museum, and weavers is not included in the base price. Guests must provide their own vehicle (with space for the guide) or opt for the local Tuk-Tuk experience (arranged locally for an additional fee).
Punctuality: Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled start time. Late arrivals may result in a shortened itinerary to maintain the schedule.

4. Liability & Insurance

Personal Belongings: We are not responsible for the loss or damage of personal items (cameras, phones, etc.) during the tour, workshop, or while using the river-view swing.
Nature Hazards: As this is a riverside and outdoor activity, participants may encounter uneven terrain, insects, or weather changes.
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend that all travelers have comprehensive travel and medical insurance.

5. Cancellation & Weather

Weather Policy: Activities take place rain or shine. In the event of extreme weather (heavy storms) that makes the Palace Rock climb unsafe, we will provide an alternative cultural activity or reschedule where possible.
Cancellations: (Standard Viator Policy applies) Full refund for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance. No refund for cancellations within 24 hours.

What to Expect

Artisans' code: WD-OP3-X

Focus: Hands-on Carpentry Workshop in Sri Lanka, A Guided Journey into a Kingdom.

Your adventure begins with a walk through sacred grounds once guarded by ancient kings to protect the Tooth Relic.

The Climb: Follow the ancient, stone-carved steps up Maliga Gala. As you ascend, our guides will share stories of the kings who ruled from this rocky fortress.
The View: Reach the summit for a breathtaking, panoramic vista of the Kurunegala plains—a perfect moment for photography and reflection.

Living Traditions: Handlooms & Woodcarving

After descending from the clouds, we dive into the vibrant culture of the surrounding villages.

The Weaving Communities: Experience the rhythmic clatter of traditional handlooms. Witness how local weavers transform thread into intricate textiles using techniques unchanged for centuries.
Master Woodcarvers: Visit the workshops of master artisans. Watch as they transform raw timber into timeless art, utilizing motifs and patterns passed down from the ancient temple era.

Highlights:

Historical Exploration: Discover the hidden history of the Dambadeniya Kingdom.
Palace Rock Hike: A guided climb with 360-degree views of the island’s lush interior.
Artisan Encounters: Meet local weavers and woodcarvers keeping ancient traditions alive.
Sacred Heritage: Visit the historic temple and museum to see where the Tooth Relic was once housed.

At a Glance:

Duration: 2 – 2.5 Hours
Inclusions: Entry to the Dambadeniya Museum, guided ascent of Palace Rock, visit to the Historic Temple, and a scenic tour of Giriulla’s iconic bridge and city vistas.
Why Book This: It is the perfect blend of archaeology, nature, and community-led tourism for the conscious traveler.

Transportation Note: Moving Through History

To provide you with a seamless and authentic experience, please note the following regarding travel between sites:

Point-to-Point Experience: This tour covers multiple locations, including the Dambadeniya Museum, Palace Rock, and the artisan weaving communities.
Travel Options: * Private Vehicle: If you are traveling with your own driver or a rental car, our guide will join you to navigate the scenic backroads between the ruins and the workshops.
- The Local Experience (Tuk-Tuk): For a more immersive "village feel," we can help arrange a local Tuk-Tuk for the short transfers between sites (additional local fee applies).

Meeting Point: We meet at the Giriulla Bridge/Gateway, a central and easy-to-find landmark. Detailed GPS coordinates will be provided upon booking.

Walking Level: While we use vehicles to move between major zones, the ascent of Maliga Gala (Palace Rock) involves a moderate climb on ancient stone steps. We recommend sturdy walking shoes or sneakers.