From Colombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Day Trip With Tea Factory

Exploring the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka is an enriching experience. This day trip from Colombo to Kandy and Pinnawala offers a chance to witness the majestic elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage, immerse in the spiritual ambiance of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and discover the vibrant city of Kandy. But the journey doesn’t end there. Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting world of tea production as you visit a local tea factory.

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Key Points

Experience a day trip from Colombo to the cultural sites of Kandy, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
The tour is priced at €91.95 for up to 4 people and includes pickup, drop-off, and an English-speaking guide.
Observe elephants bathing, feeding, and learn about conservation efforts at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Temple of the Tooth Relic and immerse in the city of Kandy.
Budget an additional $25 USD per person for entrance fees and consider the tour’s suitability for certain individuals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This day trip from Colombo offers visitors a chance to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Kandy and Pinnawala.

Priced at €91.95 for up to 4 people, the 1-day private tour includes pickup and drop-off from three locations, a live English-speaking guide, and free cancellation.

Visitors can witness elephants bathing and feeding at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, discover the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Tooth Relic, and enjoy panoramic views and local markets in Kandy.

With comfortable transportation and optional gem museum visits, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive Sri Lankan experience.

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Highlights of Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

One of the highlights of this day trip is the visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Here, you’ll observe the majestic elephants as they bathe, feed, and interact in their natural habitat. The 1-hour experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about the orphanage’s conservation efforts and the elephants’ daily routines.

Observe the majestic elephants as they bathe, feed, and interact in their natural habitat. The 1-hour experience offers a unique learning opportunity.

Entrance fees are $18 USD. This immersive encounter provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by these gentle giants and the importance of protecting them.

The tour guide will share fascinating details about the elephants’ behaviors and the orphanage’s role in their rehabilitation.

Exploring the Temple of the Tooth Relic

The Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers visitors a captivating 1-hour exploration of its rich architecture and cultural significance.

Visitors can expect to:

Marvel at the temple’s intricate and ornate design, reflecting the region’s unique architectural traditions.
Learn about the temple’s role as a sacred site, housing the revered relic of Buddha’s tooth.
Gain insights into the temple’s deep-rooted spiritual and historical significance for the Buddhist faith.
Immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, with the opportunity to observe religious rituals and ceremonies.

The entrance fee for the Temple of the Tooth Relic is $6 USD.

Sightseeing in Kandy

After exploring the captivating Temple of the Tooth Relic, the tour continues to Kandy, where visitors can enjoy the city’s diverse sights and vibrant atmosphere.

From a panoramic viewpoint, guests can admire the stunning vistas of Kandy’s lush surroundings. Next, they’ll visit the towering Buddha statue, a serene and impressive sight.

In the lively Kandy market, travelers can browse for souvenirs and local products, seeing the bustling energy of the city. An optional visit to a gem museum offers insights into the region’s gemstone industry and local mining practices.

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Transportation and Pickup Options

Three convenient pickup and drop-off options are available for this tour: Negombo, Colombo, and Bandaranaike International Airport. This ensures flexibility and convenience for travellers arriving or departing from different locations.

To ensure an accurate pickup, it’s recommended to confirm the details with the tour guide via WhatsApp prior to the tour.

Private transportation is included throughout the day-long excursion.
Pickup and drop-off service is provided from your chosen location.
Arrive at the first stop, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, with ease and comfort.
Enjoy a seamless experience with door-to-door transportation on the Kandy and Pinnawala tour.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive package of services and experiences. The price covers private transportation, an expert local guide, and visits to top attractions like the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Tooth, and Kandy’s viewpoints and markets.

A local lunch is also provided. However, entrance fees for these sites are excluded from the package price. Travelers will need to budget an additional $25 USD per person for these fees.

Personal expenses, tips, and any food not included in the lunch are also not covered. Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and hydration.

Important Considerations

While the day trip offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the active nature of the itinerary.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Be prepared for a full day of activities, as the itinerary covers multiple attractions and destinations.
Entrance fees for the various sites aren’t included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.

Exploring a Local Tea Factory

One highlight of the day trip is the visit to a local tea factory, where participants can learn about the intricate process of tea production.

Guests tour the factory, observing the withering, rolling, oxidizing, and drying stages that transform the freshly plucked leaves into the fragrant black tea. An expert guide explains the nuances of aroma, color, and flavor that distinguish different tea varieties.

Visitors also have the opportunity to browse the factory’s retail shop, purchasing high-quality teas and tea-infused products as souvenirs.

The tea factory visit offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s celebrated tea industry and its cultural significance.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows guests to bring their own food and drinks. However, a local lunch is already included in the tour price. It’s recommended to bring water to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Is There Any Opportunity to Interact With the Elephants at Pinnawala?

Yes, the tour includes the opportunity to watch elephants bathe, feed, and interact at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Visitors can observe the elephants’ daily activities and learn about conservation efforts at the orphanage.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences. Travelers should communicate their needs to the tour operator in advance, who’ll work to provide suitable lunch options to ensure everyone’s dietary requirements are met during the day trip.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Shopping at the Kandy Market?

The tour allocates around 1 hour for exploring the lively Kandy market, where travelers can browse and shop for souvenirs and local products. The time allows flexibility to discover the market’s offerings at one’s own pace.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

There’s no option to extend the tour or add additional activities. It’s a fixed one-day itinerary focused on visiting the key sites like Pinnawala, Temple of the Tooth, and Kandy market. Flexibility is limited within the provided tour structure.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Colombo to Kandy and Pinnawala offers an enriching exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and natural wonders. Visitors can witness the majesty of elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage, enjoy the spiritual atmosphere of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and enjoy the scenic vistas of Kandy. Capped off with a visit to a local tea factory, this tour provides a well-rounded and memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: