From Colombo: Kandy, Pinnawala and Tea Factory Full-Day Trip

Explore Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders on this full-day trip from Colombo. Witness the majestic elephants at Pinnawala, visit the iconic Tooth Relic Temple in Kandy, and learn about the rich tea heritage. With comfortable transportation, local cuisine, and expert guidance, this excursion offers an opportunity to discover the diverse landscape and traditions of this captivating island nation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience.

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Key Points

Explore Pinnawala Elephant Village, Kandy Tooth Relic Temple, and a local tea factory on a full-day trip from Colombo.
Pricing starts at $49.68 per person, including pickup, air-conditioned vehicle, and complimentary snacks and drinks.
Highlights include a stop for local breakfast, spice garden visit, and scenic lunch overlooking Kandy Lake.
Not recommended for those with mobility issues or over 95 years old; entrance fees and meals not included.
Mixed customer feedback, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 4 reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day trip from Colombo takes visitors to Kandy, Pinnawala, and a tea factory, priced from $49.68 per person.

The 1-day tour includes pickup from select locations, an air-conditioned vehicle, and complimentary snacks and drinks. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.

The itinerary covers highlights like the Tooth Relic Temple in Kandy, a spice garden, a gem factory, and a tea factory tour with tasting.

Entrance fees and meals aren’t included, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or over 95 years old.

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Itinerary Highlights

After pickup at 6:30 AM, travelers embark on a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle.

They stop for a local breakfast in Ambepussa before visiting Pinnawala Elephant Village for hands-on experiences with the animals.

Next, they explore Mawanella for a free lesson on local spices.

The tour then visits the UNESCO-listed Tooth Relic Temple in Kandy, allowing time for shopping and sightseeing.

Lunch is at a scenic viewpoint overlooking Kandy Lake.

The itinerary also includes a visit to a gem factory, a tea factory for tasting, and a demonstration of the wood carving process.

Included Services

The full-day trip from Colombo includes pickup and drop-off from the traveler’s accommodation.

The air-conditioned vehicle provides a comfortable ride, and travelers receive a bottle of water, local peanut or cassava chips, and a King Coconut.

The tour also includes a visit to a spice garden for a free lesson on local spices, a tour of a gem factory to learn about Sri Lankan gem culture, and a visit to a tea factory for a tasting experience.

Plus, a wood carving process demonstration is provided.

Entrance fees for the Elephant Village and Temple of Kandy aren’t included.

Important Information and Recommendations

Although not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those over 95 years, the full-day trip from Colombo offers several recommendations for travelers.

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and clothing that covers up to the knee for the Tooth Relic Temple. Bringing water and a camera is also advised.

Smoking and consuming food and drinks are restricted in certain areas, so travelers should be mindful of local customs.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

The full-day trip from Colombo has received mixed feedback from customers.

Based on 4 reviews, the trip has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5. Some customers enjoyed the experience and praised the friendliness of the driver as well as the quality of the local cuisine.

However, others raised concerns about animal welfare at the Pinnawala Elephant Village and the driving safety.

Notable comments highlight the trip’s strengths, such as the scenic views and culture, but also point to areas for improvement, particularly regarding ethical practices and transportation.

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Exploring Pinnawala Elephant Village

As part of the full-day trip from Colombo, visitors have the opportunity to explore the Pinnawala Elephant Village.

This unique experience allows travelers to witness the daily activities of the elephant herd and even interact with the gentle giants.

The visit includes:

Observing the elephants’ bathing and feeding times at the river.
Learning about the conservation efforts and the daily routine of caring for the elephants.
Gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by these majestic creatures and the importance of responsible tourism.

Discovering Kandy’s Cultural Gems

After exploring the captivating Pinnawala Elephant Village, the tour moves on to uncover the cultural gems of Kandy.

The first stop is the UNESCO-listed Tooth Relic Temple, where visitors can admire the ornate architecture and learn about its historical significance.

Then, they’ll enjoy free time for shopping and sightseeing around Kandy’s bustling streets.

Explore Kandy’s vibrant streets, indulge in shopping, and learn about the city’s bustling atmosphere.

Lunch is served at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the serene Kandy Lake.

The tour also includes a visit to Bahiravakanda village to see the impressive 88-foot Buddha statue.

Finally, travelers will learn about Sri Lankan gem culture at a local gem factory.

Taking in Sri Lankan Tea Culture

One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to a tea factory in Pilimathalawa, where travelers can enjoy Sri Lanka’s renowned tea culture.

The tea factory tour offers a unique opportunity to:

Learn about the intricate tea production process, from plucking the leaves to drying, fermenting, and packaging.
Participate in a hands-on tea tasting, where you can sample different varieties and discover the nuances of Sri Lankan tea.
Gain insights into the history and importance of tea in the country’s economy and cultural heritage.

This immersive tea experience provides a deeper appreciation for one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic exports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Discount for Booking With a Group?

Yes, there is a group discount available. Booking with 3 or more people can get a 10% discount on the per-person price. This helps make the tour more affordable for larger groups.

Can I Choose My Pickup Location From the Listed Options?

Yes, you can choose your pickup location from the three listed options – Katunayake, Colombo, or Negombo. The tour provides a convenient pickup service to accommodate your preferred starting point for the day trip.

Will There Be a Professional Guide During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a professional guide who will accompany the group throughout the day, providing information and coordinating the various activities and visits. The guide ensures a smooth and informative experience for all participants.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meals?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the included meals. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour provider about any special dietary needs before booking, as they may be able to accommodate them.

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Travelers can work with the tour operator to modify the itinerary based on their preferences, such as spending more time at certain attractions or adding additional sites to visit.

The Sum Up

This full-day trip from Colombo offers a comprehensive cultural and natural experience. Travelers can witness the majestic elephants at Pinnawala, explore the UNESCO-listed Tooth Relic Temple in Kandy, and explore Sri Lanka’s renowned tea culture. With comfortable transportation, local meals, and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the diverse wonders of Sri Lanka.