Embarking on the Kandy to Nuwara Eliya Drop Tour is an opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s picturesque landscapes up close. Priced affordably, this culture experience takes travelers through iconic landmarks, from serene Buddhist stupas to charming colonial architecture. With a focus on showcasing the island’s rich heritage, the tour promises breathtaking vistas and engaging interactions. Whether seeking a day trip or a deeper dive into Sri Lankan culture, this excursion could be the perfect addition to any itinerary.
Key Points
- The Kandy to Nuwara Eliya drop tour is priced at $27.51 per person and lasts 6-8 hours with hotel pickup from Kandy.
- The tour includes stops at must-see attractions such as Asgiriya Stupa, a local wood carving workshop, and a Ceylon tea factory.
- Nuwara Eliya, known as ‘Little England’, offers a pleasant climate, colonial architecture, and a thriving tea industry.
- The tour operates year-round, with peak season in April featuring events like motor and horse racing, band shows, and vibrant parties.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 46 reviews, highlighting knowledgeable guides and enjoyable stops.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Kandy to Nuwara Eliya Drop Tour offers a convenient and affordable way to explore the scenic highlights between the two cities.
Priced from $27.51 per person, the tour lasts 6-8 hours and includes pickup from your Kandy hotel. You can secure your spot without upfront payment by reserving now and paying later.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Along the journey, you’ll stop at must-see attractions like Asgiriya Stupa, a tea factory, Ramboda Waterfall, and more, before being dropped off at your Nuwara Eliya hotel.
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Tour Highlights and Itinerary
The tour begins at 8:00 AM with pickup from your Kandy hotel. The first stop is the Asgiriya Stupa, followed by a visit to a local wood carving family workshop. Next, you’ll tour a Ceylon tea factory just 20 km from Kandy. Then, it’s off to the Ramboda View Point, 28 km from Kandy, where you can see the stunning Ramboda Waterfall just 0.5 km away. The tour continues to a nearby tea plantation and wraps up with a visit to the Nuwara Eliya Post Office, 15 km from the plantation.
| Stops | Distance from Kandy |
|—|—|
| Asgiriya Stupa | – |
| Wood Carving Family Workshop | – |
| Ceylon Tea Factory | 20 km |
| Ramboda View Point | 28 km |
| Ramboda Waterfall | 0.5 km |
| Tea Plantation | 8 km |
| Nuwara Eliya Post Office | 15 km |
Cultural and Historical Context
Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s highest town, is known as ‘Little England’ for its temperate climate and colonial-era architecture.
The town features the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, a racecourse, Victoria Park, and opportunities for trout fishing.
Nuwara Eliya offers a golf club, racecourse, Victoria Park, and opportunities for trout fishing.
This climate, with a mean annual temperature of 16°C that can drop to 3°C at night, is ideal for the tea industry introduced in the late 19th century.
Tea production, a vital part of Sri Lanka’s economy, involves plucking, drying, crushing, fermenting, and firing the leaves to create the final product.
Seasonal Events and Attractions
Although Nuwara Eliya’s season in April attracts many travelers, accommodation can be scarce during this peak period.
However, there’s plenty to enjoy during this lively time of year. Some highlights include:
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Motor and horse racing events, captivating band shows, and vibrant parties.
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The Mahagastotte and Radella Hill Climbs, Nuwara Eliya Road Race, Governors Cup, and golf tournaments.
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A colorful flower show and opportunities for trout fishing, boating on Lake Gregory, and playing golf on the course.
Customer Feedback and Experience
Customers have rated this Kandy to Nuwara Eliya tour quite highly, with an overall score of 4.7 out of 5 based on 46 reviews. The guide and transportation received excellent ratings of 4.9/5, while value for money scored 4.6/5. Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, flexibility, and enjoyable stops during the journey. To get a better sense of the customer experience, consider this feedback breakdown:
| Metric | Rating |
| ——- | —— |
| Overall | 4.7/5 |
| Guide | 4.9/5 |
| Transport | 4.9/5 |
| Value | 4.6/5 |
Customers emphasize the tour’s practical information, like bringing a passport and understanding the all-weather operation.
Pickup and Cancellation Policy
The tour includes pickup from your Kandy hotel lobby, where you should be waiting 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
The tour offers a few convenient booking and cancellation options:
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You can reserve your spot without upfront payment, paying later to secure your tour.
-
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
-
The tour operates rain or shine, so you can enjoy the scenic journey no matter the weather.
With these flexible policies, you can book the tour with confidence and focus on experiencing the beautiful Nuwara Eliya landscape.
Dress Code and Packing Suggestions
Since the tour covers a range of landscapes and elevations, it’s important to dress in layers and bring appropriate clothing.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet for much of the day. A light jacket or sweater is recommended, as temperatures can drop, especially at the higher elevations.
Don’t forget sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bringing a reusable water bottle is also advisable, as you’ll want to stay hydrated throughout the excursion.
Additional Information and Tips
Along With the essentials covered in the previous section, there are a few other helpful tips to keep in mind for this Kandy to Nuwara Eliya tour.
First, be prepared for the changing weather conditions. Nuwara Eliya’s climate can be quite cool, so bring layers of clothing.
Second, consider packing a small umbrella or rain jacket, as the tour may continue in light rain.
Finally, be mindful of your belongings, as large crowds are common at some of the tour stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Customers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour does not provide any storage or facilities for consuming them during the journey. It’s recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific policies.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the tour duration. However, customers can request additional stops or activities during the tour, which may increase the overall time. The standard itinerary is 6-8 hours.
Do We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t include a scheduled lunch stop, but travelers can have lunch at one of the tea plantations or villages along the way. They’ll have time to purchase a meal during the journey.
Can I Request a Customized Tour Itinerary?
Guests can request a customized tour itinerary. The tour operator is typically willing to accommodate special requests, such as additional stops or adjustments to the schedule, if they’re feasible and align with the tour’s overall duration and focus.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Participants of all ages are welcome to join. The tour operator simply recommends that guests be able to comfortably walk short distances during the included stops.
The Sum Up
The Kandy to Nuwara Eliya Drop Tour offers an immersive experience through Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes. Priced from $27.51 per person, this 6-8 hour tour includes hotel pickup, visits to iconic attractions, and a focus on culture. Travelers can enjoy breathtaking views, explore colonial architecture, and gain a deeper understanding of Sri Lankan heritage, making it a memorable adventure.
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