Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour From Bentota and Kalutara

The Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour from Bentota and Kalutara offers visitors a chance to enjoy Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders. From witnessing the gentle giants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to exploring the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, this comprehensive tour promises an enriching experience. But there’s more in store – a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden and a tea factory will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the island’s diverse treasures.

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Key Points

The Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour is a 12-14 hour excursion from Bentota and Kalutara, priced at $120 per person.
The tour includes visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and a tea factory.
Visitors can witness elephants being fed and bathed, explore the sacred temple, and learn about Sri Lanka’s tea production.
Transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and tips are included in the tour package.
The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour is a comprehensive sightseeing experience that takes visitors from Bentota and Kalutara on a journey to explore the cultural and natural wonders of central Sri Lanka.

Priced at $120 per person, the tour lasts 12 to 14 hours and includes visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and a tea factory.

Transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and tips are all included. Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

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Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

One of the highlights of the Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour is the visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

This unique sanctuary is home to over 100 elephants of all ages, rescued from the wild or abandoned. Visitors can witness the elephants being fed and bathed in the nearby river, offering a rare chance to observe these gentle giants up close.

The 1-hour visit provides fascinating insights into the orphanage’s conservation efforts and the opportunity to learn about elephant behavior and care. Guests leave with a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

After visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the tour proceeds to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.

Highlights of the visit include:

A 1-hour duration to explore the temple’s sacred spaces.
Viewing the relic of Buddha’s tooth, which is central to Sri Lankan governance.
Witnessing a cultural show featuring traditional drumming, dancing, and fire walking.
Understanding the temple’s historical and religious significance as a place of worship.

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic offers a profound cultural experience, providing insight into Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.

Peradeniya Botanical Garden

Following the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the tour moves on to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, a historic garden established in the 16th century.

Spanning over 147 acres, it’s known for its stunning beauty and vast diversity of plant species. Visitors can explore the garden’s many pathways, admiring the towering palm trees, vibrant flowers, and serene ponds.

The tour includes a 1-hour visit, allowing ample time to appreciate the garden’s tranquil ambiance and gain insights into Sri Lanka’s rich botanical heritage.

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Tea Factory Visit

The tour then includes a visit to a local tea factory, offering a captivating 30-minute insider’s look into Sri Lanka’s renowned tea production.

Visitors can:

Observe the intricate tea processing methods, from withering and rolling to drying and sorting.
Learn about the distinct varieties of Ceylon tea and their unique flavor profiles.
Gain an appreciation for the skill and craftsmanship involved in producing high-quality black, green, and herbal teas.
Enjoy a tasting session to discern the nuances between different tea types.

The tea factory visit provides a valuable opportunity to deepen one’s understanding of this iconic Sri Lankan industry.

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City Tour and Shopping in Kandy

After the visits to the botanical gardens and tea factory, the tour takes visitors on a city tour of Kandy, allowing them to explore the historic city and indulge in local shopping.

The tour includes a stop at Kandy Lake, a picturesque body of water surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can also visit a historic church and browse local shops for souvenirs, handicrafts, and tea.

The city tour provides a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Kandy, complementing the other experiences on the day-long excursion.

Transportation Details

The tour includes convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off services, allowing visitors to start and end their journey comfortably.

The transportation for the tour is provided in a private vehicle with the following journey times:

Bentota to Pinnawala: 2.5 hours
Pinnawala to Kandy: 20 minutes
Kandy to Botanical Garden: 30 minutes
Return to Bentota: 3 hours

The tour ensures efficient transit between the key attractions, minimizing travel time and maximizing the time spent exploring the sites.

Inclusions

The tour’s inclusions cover a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, guided tours of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Tooth Relic, and spice garden.

Entrance fees for all attractions are covered, and transportation as per the itinerary is provided.

The tour also includes the services of a knowledgeable guide throughout the day.

Tips and gratuities are included, so travelers don’t have to worry about additional expenses.

These inclusions make the tour a hassle-free and value-packed experience.

Common Questions

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

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention bringing your own food and drinks. However, it’s generally allowed to bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for personal consumption during the tour, unless otherwise stated by the tour operator.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Customers can request a longer tour to explore more attractions or spend more time at each location by speaking with the tour operator.

How Flexible Is the Tour Schedule in Case of Delays?

The tour schedule is flexible in case of delays. The day’s itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate any unforeseen delays, ensuring visitors still experience the full range of attractions without feeling rushed.

What Is the Policy for Children or Infants on the Tour?

Children and infants are welcome on the tour. Discounted rates are available for children under 12, while infants under 2 can join for free. Parents should bring any necessary child equipment and prepare for the day’s activities.

Are There Any COVID-19 Protocols or Requirements to Participate?

The tour requires travelers to follow current COVID-19 protocols, which may include mask-wearing and presenting proof of vaccination or a negative test. Guests should check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date requirements before their trip.

The Sum Up

The Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour from Bentota and Kalutara offers an enriching exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural attractions. Visitors can witness the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, experience the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, and stroll through the Peradeniya Botanical Garden. Plus, they’ll learn about Ceylon tea production and enjoy a city tour with shopping opportunities. With transportation, guided tours, and tips included, this tour provides an unforgettable immersion in Sri Lanka’s heritage.