From Bentota/Kalutara: Magical Journey to Kandy & Pinnawala

Set out on a captivating journey from Bentota or Kalutara to the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Witness the world’s largest captive elephant herd at the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, explore the stunning Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth. This 10-hour tour offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and activities, providing an immersive Sri Lankan experience. At just $110 per person, it’s an opportunity not to be missed.

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Key Points

Explore the world’s largest captive elephant herd at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, with opportunities for bottle-feeding and elephant bathing.
Discover the rich botanical diversity at Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, renowned for its orchid collection and iconic Cannonball Tree.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic to experience the cultural and historical significance of this sacred site.
Enjoy a comprehensive 10-hour tour with pickup service from major hotels in Bentota, Kosgoda, and Beruwala, including lunch and refreshments.
Benefit from flexible booking options, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a magical journey from Bentota/Kalutara to the charming city of Kandy and the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Priced from $110 per person, the 10-hour tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.

For just $110 per person, this 10-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Pickup service is available from major hotels in Bentota, Kosgoda, and Beruwala, with 8 convenient locations. The tour includes entrance fees, lunch, refreshments, and all government taxes.

Visitors should bring their passport or ID and dress modestly when visiting sacred sites. Transfers may vary due to traffic, so travelers should plan accordingly.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour offers visitors a chance to explore several captivating highlights.

At the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, guests can observe the world’s largest captive elephant herd, including newborns and adults. Key activities include bottle-feeding and elephant bathing.

Afterward, the tour visits the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, renowned for its orchid collection and diverse plant species.

Finally, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the rich history and significance of this important Buddhist site once home to ancient Sri Lankan rulers.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

One of the highlights of the tour is the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to the world’s largest captive elephant herd.

Visitors can observe newborns and adults at various scheduled activities throughout the day. Key activities include bottle-feeding at 9:15 am, 1:15 pm, and 5:00 pm, and elephant bathing from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

The orphanage provides a unique opportunity to witness the daily lives and behaviors of these majestic creatures up close, offering an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.

Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

Established in 1371 and located 5.5 km west of Kandy, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens is renowned for its collection of orchids and diverse plant species.

The sprawling 147-acre gardens showcase over 4,000 plant species from around the world. Visitors can stroll through themed gardens, including the Palm Garden, the Spice Garden, and the Orchid House.

The iconic Cannonball Tree and the impressive Double Coconut Palm are must-see highlights. With well-maintained pathways and informative signage, the gardens offer a peaceful oasis for nature enthusiasts to explore Sri Lanka’s rich botanical heritage.

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Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic holds significant cultural and religious importance in Sri Lanka.

Home to a sacred relic – a tooth of the Buddha – the temple has a rich history and was once the capital of ancient Sri Lankan rulers.

Visitors can explore the ornate architecture, intricate carvings, and learn about the temple’s significance in Buddhist beliefs.

Visitors can enjoy the temple’s ornate architecture, intricate carvings, and significance within Buddhist beliefs.

Dress modestly, avoid flash photography, and follow the guidelines to have a meaningful experience at this revered site during the Magical Journey to Kandy.

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Transportation and Pickup

The tour offers pickup service from all hotels in Bentota, Kosgoda, and Beruwala.

There are 8 designated pickup and drop-off locations, including Kalutara North, Waskaduwa, Kalutara, Beruwala, Bentota, Kalutara South, and Kosgoda.

Transportation is provided via private vehicle, and the cost includes fuel surcharge and driver charges. This ensures a comfortable and convenient journey for guests, allowing them to focus on the sights and experiences of the tour without the hassle of logistics.

The schedule may vary slightly based on traffic conditions, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour package includes entrance fees to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (US$ 12), Kandy Tooth Relic Temple (US$ 10), and Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens (US$ 10).

Lunch at local restaurants is also included.

Complimentary refreshments and water are provided during the tour.

All government taxes are covered in the cost.

The package offers great value, allowing visitors to explore these iconic attractions without the hassle of arranging separate tickets and transportation.

Entrance fees to key attractions included
Lunch at local restaurants provided
Complimentary refreshments and water
All government taxes covered

Important Information and Guidelines

Visitors are advised to bring their passport or ID card for the tour.

Visitors are advised to bring their passport or ID card for the tour.

When visiting sacred places, travelers should cover their shoulders and knees to respect local customs. Flash photography and sleeveless shirts aren’t allowed.

Visitors should plan for potential delays in transfers due to traffic conditions.

The tour includes entrance fees for Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Kandy Tooth Relic Temple, and Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens. Complimentary refreshments and water are provided. All government taxes are included in the tour cost.

Adherence to these guidelines will ensure a smooth and memorable journey to Kandy and Pinnawala.

Common Questions

Is English Widely Spoken During the Tour?

English is widely spoken throughout the tour. The tour guides and staff are fluent in English, ensuring smooth communication and an enjoyable experience for English-speaking travelers.

Can I Take Pictures Inside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic?

Taking photos inside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is not allowed. Visitors must avoid using flash photography and are required to cover their shoulders and knees when visiting this sacred Buddhist site.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens?

The best time to visit Peradeniya Botanical Gardens is during the dry season from December to April when the weather’s pleasant and the gardens are in full bloom. Visitors can enjoy the diverse plant collections and lush landscapes.

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

No, the tour does not allow bringing your own food and drinks. The package includes complimentary refreshments and water, as well as a provided lunch at local restaurants. Outside food and beverages are not permitted on the tour.

Is the Tour Guide Available to Answer Additional Questions During the Tour?

Yes, the tour guide is available to answer additional questions during the tour. They can provide further information and clarification to ensure a pleasant and informative experience for the travelers.

The Sum Up

This enchanting tour from Bentota or Kalutara to Kandy and Pinnawala offers a captivating blend of nature and culture. Witness the majestic elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage, explore the lush Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and visit the revered Temple of the Tooth, all while enjoying a delectable Sri Lankan lunch. With its affordable price and comprehensive inclusions, this 10-hour journey provides an unforgettable experience for nature and culture enthusiasts.