From Colombo: Ambuluwawa Tower and Pinnawala Day Trip

Explore the natural wonders and cultural treasures beyond Colombo with this captivating day trip. Venture to the Ambuluwawa Tower, an architectural marvel offering sweeping panoramic views. Then, learn about the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you’ll witness the gentle giants up close. Cap off the experience with a visit to the Giragama Tea Factory, uncovering the secrets behind Sri Lanka’s renowned beverage. This well-rounded adventure promises an unforgettable blend of sights, sounds, and insights into the island’s rich heritage.

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Key Points

A day trip from Colombo that visits Ambuluwawa Tower, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and Giragama Tea Factory, providing panoramic views, elephant interactions, and insights into tea production.
The tour is priced at £81.38 per person and includes an English-speaking driver, hotel pickup/drop-off, bottled water, and all entrance fees.
Visitors can explore the architectural marvel of Ambuluwawa Tower for around 3.5 hours and observe elephant activities at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage for 2.5 hours.
The itinerary also offers an optional visit to a local wood carving studio and opportunities to learn about Sri Lankan culture and natural beauty.
The tour is not suitable for individuals with back problems or those over 95 years old, and a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This day trip from Colombo takes visitors to the Ambuluwawa Tower and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Priced at £81.38 per person, the tour lasts for one day.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The itinerary includes exploring the Ambuluwawa Tower, observing elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage, and learning about tea production.

The tour includes an English-speaking driver, free hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and all entrance fees. However, it’s not suitable for those with back problems or over 95 years old.

Visitors should bring sunglasses and a sun hat.

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Itinerary Highlights

The Ambuluwawa Tower stands as an architectural marvel, offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Guests can explore the tower for around 3.5 hours.

Next, the trip takes visitors to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where they can observe and interact with the elephants, witnessing their daily activities over 2.5 hours.

The itinerary also includes a visit to the Giragama Tea Factory, where guests can learn about the tea production process.

Finally, there’s an optional opportunity to observe skilled wood carvers and consider purchasing unique handcrafted items.

Ambuluwawa Tower

Visitors can explore the Ambuluwawa Tower, an architectural marvel that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

The tower stands tall at 3.5 hours, providing ample time for guests to wander and take in the breathtaking vistas. From the top, one can gaze upon the lush greenery and rolling hills that characterize the region.

The tower’s unique design and strategic location make it a must-visit attraction for those seeking a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

The tower’s unique design and strategic location make it a must-visit attraction for those seeking a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

With free hotel pickup and drop-off, accessing the tower couldn’t be more convenient for travelers.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

After exploring the Ambuluwawa Tower, visitors can observe and interact with elephants at the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

The 2.5-hour visit allows guests to witness the elephants’ daily activities, including bathing and feeding. Visitors can even join the mahouts in leading the elephants to the nearby river.

The orphanage cares for over 80 elephants, many of which were abandoned or orphaned. Guests can learn about the elephants’ rehabilitation and conservation efforts.

The experience offers a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.

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Giragama Tea Factory

Following the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the day trip includes a visit to the Giragama Tea Factory.

Here, visitors can learn about the fascinating tea production process:

Plantation: Observe the lush tea plantations and learn about the various tea cultivars.
Withering: Witness the wilting of freshly plucked tea leaves to reduce their moisture content.
Rolling: Understand the intricate rolling process that shapes the leaves.
Drying and Sorting: See how the rolled leaves are dried and sorted into different grades.

Guests can also purchase high-quality tea directly from the factory.

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Wood Carving (Optional)

The day trip also includes an optional stop at a local wood carving studio, where visitors can observe skilled artisans creating intricate and unique wood carvings.

Guests have the opportunity to browse the artworks and consider purchasing these handcrafted souvenirs as mementos of their Sri Lankan adventure.

The wood carvings on display showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent of the region, ranging from decorative pieces to functional items.

This optional activity provides an authentic cultural experience and allows travelers to support local artisans while expanding their collection of travel keepsakes.

Inclusions

The day trip includes an English-speaking driver, free hotel pickup and drop-off within 10km of Colombo, bottled water or King Coconut Water, parking charges, and all entrance fees.

The inclusions provide:

Hassle-free transportation with an English-speaking guide
Complimentary water to stay hydrated during the excursion
Coverage of all admission fees to the tour destinations
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off within the Colombo area

These inclusions ensure a seamless and well-catered experience, allowing visitors to focus on exploring the highlights of the Ambuluwawa Tower and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage without additional logistical concerns.

Important Information

Individuals with back problems or over 95 years of age may find this day trip unsuitable. Visitors are advised to bring sunglasses and sun hats for protection. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour.

| Requirement | Details |

| — | — |

| Age | Not suitable for individuals over 95 years |

| Physical Condition | Not suitable for those with back problems |

| Permitted Items | Sunglasses, sun hat |

| Prohibited Items | Alcohol, drugs |

| Meeting Point | Colombo City, with free pickup and drop-off within 10km radius |

Common Questions

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour details do not specify a minimum or maximum group size. Typically, these types of day trips accommodate small to medium-sized groups, though the exact group size may vary depending on demand and availability.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?

The tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions or special meal options. Travelers should check with the tour operator if they have any dietary requirements that need to be accommodated.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Sights or Activities?

Yes, you can likely extend the tour to include additional sights or activities, though there may be an extra charge. It’s best to discuss any customizations with the tour provider when booking to ensure availability and pricing.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary Based on Personal Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional sights or activities based on personal interests. Travelers can work with the tour provider to tailor the itinerary to meet their specific needs and preferences.

What Is the Policy for Children or Families Traveling With Children?

The tour is suitable for families with children. There are no special discounts or policies mentioned, but children can participate in the activities. Visitors should ensure their children’s safety and comfort during the tour.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Colombo offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and unforgettable encounters. Visitors can admire the stunning panoramic views from Ambuluwawa Tower, observe and interact with the resident elephants at Pinnawala Orphanage, and gain insights into Sri Lankan tea production. With optional wood carving experiences, this excursion promises a well-rounded exploration of the country’s diverse attractions.