From Colombo: Kandy & Pinnawala Orphanage Short Excursions

The "From Colombo: Kandy & Pinnawala Orphanage Short Excursions" offers a captivating full-day adventure through Sri Lanka’s wildlife and cultural heritage. Visitors can observe over 100 elephants at the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and stroll through the picturesque Royal Botanical Gardens. With optional tea, herbal, and spice attractions, this excursion provides a memorable glimpse into the country’s unique offerings. But what else can this tour uncover about Sri Lanka’s rich tapestry?

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Key Points

This full-day excursion from Colombo offers visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
The tour includes transportation, with pickup and drop-off in Colombo, and explores the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
Visitors can observe elephants during bathing and feeding times, and learn about the history and architecture of the Temple of the Tooth.
Optional activities include visits to tea factories, plantations, herbal gardens, and spice gardens, as well as encounters with traditional artisans.
The excursion is priced at $63.00 per person and offers a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

This full-day trip from Colombo to Kandy and Pinnawala offers an opportunity to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka.

Priced at $63.00 per person, the excursion includes pickup and drop-off in Colombo and lasts approximately 1 day.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Highlights include visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, along with optional stops at tea factories, plantations, and spice gardens.

Looking for more options in Kandy? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The excursion begins with a 2.5-hour drive from Colombo to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where visitors can observe the daily routine of these gentle giants.

The excursion begins with a 2.5-hour drive from Colombo to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where visitors can observe the daily routine of these gentle giants.

Next, the tour heads to Kandy, where guests explore the Temple of the Tooth, housing a sacred Buddhist relic.

After, they visit the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, spanning 147 acres and boasting over 4,000 plant species.

Travelers may also opt to visit a tea factory, plantation, herbal garden, or spice garden.

Lunch at a local restaurant is at one’s own expense.

Visiting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Visitors arrive at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a renowned sanctuary located approximately 1.5 hours from Kandy. The orphanage cares for over 100 elephants, including babies, juveniles, and adults.

Guests can witness the elephants during their bathing and feeding times, as well as observe the caretakers’ interactions with the gentle giants. The opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close is a highlight of the excursion.

Visitors may also explore the onsite souvenir shops and sample fresh coconut products. The Pinnawala visit provides an immersive experience with Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife and local culture.

Exploring the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy

After exploring the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the excursion continues to the historic city of Kandy, home to the renowned Temple of the Tooth. This sacred Buddhist site houses a relic believed to be the left canine tooth of the Buddha.

Visitors can:

Admire the temple’s intricate architecture, featuring ornate roofs and golden statues.
Witness the daily rituals and ceremonial offerings to the sacred tooth relic.
Explore the adjoining royal palace and learn about Kandy’s rich history as the last capital of the Sinhalese kings.
Browse the local arts and crafts, including gems, woodcarvings, and batik.
Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and Kandy Lake.

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Strolling Through the Royal Botanical Gardens

Following the visit to the Temple of the Tooth, the excursion continues on to the expansive Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya.

Spanning 147 acres, the gardens showcase over 4,000 plant species. Visitors can stroll along winding paths, admiring towering trees, vibrant flowers, and ornamental ponds.

The Gardens are a highlight for many, offering a tranquil respite from the bustling city. Travelers can explore the diverse flora, from fragrant spice gardens to the iconic Cannonball Tree.

The gardens provide an immersive experience, connecting visitors with Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage.

There's plenty more to explore in Kandy

Optional Experiences: Tea, Herbal, and Spice Attractions

What else can travelers explore on this excursion? Along With the main sights, the tour offers several optional stops that allow visitors to delve deeper into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

These include:

A visit to a renowned tea factory to learn about the island’s celebrated tea production process
Strolling through a picturesque tea plantation to witness the cultivation of this beloved crop
Exploring an herbal garden to discover the medicinal and culinary uses of local plants
Browsing a spice garden to see the sources of Sri Lanka’s fragrant spices
Observing traditional artisans at work, crafting gems, wood carvings, and batik.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have praised the excursion for its well-organized itinerary and the professionalism of the driver, Champika.

Reviews highlight his punctuality, attentiveness, and flexibility in accommodating requests. Participants enjoyed the memorable experiences with elephants and immersion in local culture.

However, some noted language barriers, as the driver’s English proficiency wasn’t always sufficient.

The excursion has earned a solid 4.1/5 rating based on 12 reviews.

Visitors appreciated the seamless pickup and drop-off service, as well as the opportunity to explore Kandy’s iconic sites and the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Important Considerations

Although the excursion isn’t suitable for individuals with back problems or those using wheelchairs, the organizers provide helpful recommendations to ensure a comfortable experience.

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat and sunscreen, and respect local customs. Additionally:

No smoking or alcoholic drinks are allowed in the vehicle.
The terrain may be challenging, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.
Visitors should be prepared for warm, humid weather and occasional rain.
Modest attire is encouraged when visiting religious sites.
Advance research on cultural etiquette can enhance the overall experience.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

The customer is allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the trip. However, smoking and alcoholic drinks are not permitted in the vehicle. Lunch at a local restaurant is available at the customer’s own expense.

Is There an Option to Visit Additional Attractions for an Extra Fee?

Yes, the tour offers optional visits to a tea factory, tea plantation, herbal garden, and spice garden for an additional fee. Travelers can customize their experience and explore extra attractions beyond the core Kandy and Pinnawala Orphanage stops.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Excursion?

No, a visa is not required to participate in this excursion. As it’s a day trip from Colombo, travelers can join the tour with their existing Sri Lankan visa or travel documents. The tour operator handles all necessary arrangements.

What Should I Do if I Lose My Personal Belongings During the Trip?

If personal belongings are lost during the trip, travelers should immediately notify the tour guide or driver. The tour company has procedures in place to assist with locating and recovering lost items.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for This Excursion?

There’s no minimum group size requirement for this excursion. The trip can be booked and enjoyed by solo travelers, couples, or small groups alike, with pickup and drop-off services provided from Colombo.

The Sum Up

This full-day excursion from Colombo offers a unique opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s wildlife and cultural heritage. Visitors can observe and interact with the majestic elephants at Pinnawala Orphanage, explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and stroll through the picturesque Royal Botanical Gardens. With an array of optional experiences, this tour provides a captivating and well-rounded introduction to Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: