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

Set out on a captivating journey from Colombo to the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. This full-day excursion immerses you in the nation’s rich heritage, from the majestic Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. Explore the art of tea-making and explore vibrant gem and craft factories, uncovering the island’s diverse treasures. With convenient hotel pickups and an expert guide, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. What secrets will you uncover along the way?

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Key Points

A full-day excursion from Colombo to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, and a tea factory, priced at $57.55 per person.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, guide, bottled water, and WiFi, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Visitors can observe elephants during feeding and bathing times at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and explore the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
The itinerary also includes visits to gem and craft factories, providing insights into Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts.
The tour culminates with a visit to a tea plantation, where visitors can learn about the tea-making process and sample a variety of Ceylon teas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The full-day trip from Colombo to Kandy, Pinnawala, and a tea factory is priced from $57.55 per person.

It’s a 12-hour excursion with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, a guide, bottled water, and WiFi.

Entry fees to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage ($15) and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic ($6) are covered, but lunch isn’t included.

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Itinerary Highlights

The full-day trip begins with hotel pickups in Colombo and Negombo, followed by a visit to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where travelers can observe the elephants feeding and bathing for approximately 2.5 hours.

A visit to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where travelers can observe the elephants feeding and bathing for approximately 2.5 hours.

Next, the group explores the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses Buddha’s canine tooth, for about an hour.

After a lunch break, the tour continues to:

Gem and craft factories
A tea factory, where visitors can learn about Sri Lanka’s tea production
The last kingdom of Sri Lanka and its hill stations

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

One of the highlights of the trip is the visit to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Travelers can observe these gentle giants during their feeding and bathing times. The orphanage provides a sanctuary for elephants that have been abandoned or orphaned, caring for over 80 elephants. Visitors can witness the elephants’ daily routine up close, including their famous bathing ritual in the river. This unique experience allows travelers to appreciate the wonders of Sri Lanka’s wildlife and gain a deeper understanding of elephant conservation efforts.

| Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage | |

| — | — |

| Founded | 1975 |

| Elephants Housed | Over 80 |

| Feeding Times | 8:15 AM, 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM |

| Bathing Times | 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM |

| Daily Visitor Capacity | Approximately 3,000 |

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

After exploring the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, visitors continue their journey to the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses a sacred tooth, believed to be that of the Buddha.

Visitors can:

Witness the daily rituals and ceremonies performed by Buddhist monks
Admire the intricate architecture and detailed carvings adorning the temple
Learn about the significance of the tooth relic and its role in Sri Lankan history
Explore the surrounding gardens and structures that make up the sacred complex.

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Lunch Break

Where does the tour group stop for lunch during this day-long excursion?

The tour includes a 1-hour lunch break. Travelers have the opportunity to enjoy a local Sri Lankan cuisine at a restaurant near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

The restaurant offers a variety of authentic dishes, allowing guests to enjoy the country’s culinary traditions. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available to cater to diverse dietary preferences.

After the satisfying meal, the group continues their journey to explore the gem and craft factories, as well as a tea factory, before returning to Colombo.

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Factory Visits

Following the lunch break, the tour group next visits a series of factories to explore Sri Lanka’s artisanal industries.

The first stop is a gem factory, where travelers can learn about the process of mining, cutting, and polishing precious stones.

Next, they visit a craft factory showcasing traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts, such as:

Handloom weavings
Intricate woodcarvings
Batik textiles
Pottery and ceramics

The final factory visit is to a tea plantation, where guests can observe the tea-making process and sample a variety of Ceylon teas.

These factory tours provide a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and thriving artisanal economy.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Travelers have praised the overall quality of this full-day tour, awarding it an impressive 4.2 out of 5 rating based on 71 reviews.

The tour guide received a remarkable 4.4/5 rating, while the transportation earned an exceptional 4.7/5.

Positive experiences highlighted by travelers include the captivating elephant feeding and bathing at Pinnawala, the awe-inspiring visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the exceptional service provided by the driver.

With these glowing reviews, this tour offers an immersive and memorable exploration of Kandy, Pinnawala, and Sri Lanka’s renowned tea factories.

Important Information

Aside from the positive feedback on the tour, there are a few important details travelers should keep in mind.

Travelers should keep a few important details in mind aside from the positive feedback on the tour.

Visitors are required to wear long pants, as shorts and short skirts aren’t allowed in the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Additionally:

Knees must be covered when entering the temple.
Bottled water and WiFi are provided, but lunch isn’t included.
Entry fees of $15 for Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and $6 for the temple are covered in the tour price.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as air-conditioned transportation and a guide, are all part of the package.

Common Questions

Is Pickup and Drop-Off Service Available for Locations Outside Colombo and Negombo?

Based on the information provided, the pickup and drop-off service is only available for hotels in Colombo and Negombo. There’s no indication that the tour offers pickup or drop-off from locations outside these two cities.

Are There Any Additional Charges for the Lunch or Tea Factory Visit?

The tour does not include lunch, so that would be an additional cost. However, the visit to the tea factory is included in the tour price without any extra charges.

Can Children Under a Certain Age Participate in the Elephant Ride?

Children under 12 years old can participate in the elephant ride at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. However, the tour doesn’t include lunch, and there may be additional fees for the tea factory visit.

Are There Any Restrictions on Taking Photographs Inside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, but visitors can’t use flashes or tripods. Respectful behavior and covering knees and shoulders are required when entering the sacred site.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops or Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional stops or activities, though this may incur extra costs. Travelers should consult with the tour operator to discuss their preferences and any modifications to the standard itinerary.

The Sum Up

This full-day excursion from Colombo offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders. Visitors can witness the remarkable Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, pay respects at the sacred Temple of the Tooth, and explore the art of tea-making. With convenient hotel pickups, knowledgeable guides, and a blend of wildlife, culture, and tradition, this trip promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to enjoy the captivating beauty of Sri Lanka.