Sri Lanka Private 2-day Tour:Train Trip, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya

Explore the cultural heart of Sri Lanka on this private 2-day tour. You’ll journey from Colombo to the historic city of Kandy, where you’ll visit a spice garden, the renowned Temple of the Tooth Relic, and vibrant local markets. Then, hop aboard a scenic train for a breathtaking ride through lush hills and tea plantations to Nuwara Eliya. Here, you’ll discover the secrets of Ceylon tea production and enjoy the serene beauty of Gregory Lake. This immersive adventure promises to showcase the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of this enchanting island nation.

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Key Points

Explore Sri Lanka’s cultural capital Kandy with visits to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and vibrant local markets.
Set out on a scenic train journey through lush tea plantations to the picturesque town of Nuwara Eliya.
Learn about Ceylon tea production with a visit to a tea factory and sample the renowned local tea.
Discover the natural beauty of Gregory Lake, surrounded by the stunning hills of Nuwara Eliya.
This private 2-day tour offers flexibility with options for 4-star or 3-star hotel accommodations and pickup from Colombo or other locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private 2-day tour in Sri Lanka offers travelers a chance to explore the country’s renowned Hill Country region.

Priced from $275 per person, the tour features a train journey through picturesque valleys and tea plantations, visits to Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth Relic and Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and a stop at a local tea factory.

Travelers can choose between 4-star or 3-star hotel accommodations, with the former including more meals and entrance fees.

Pickup is available from Colombo or other locations, though additional charges may apply.

The tour is conducted in English and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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Highlights of Day 1: Colombo to Kandy

The tour begins in Colombo, where travelers embark on their journey to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.

The journey begins in Colombo, as travelers set out to explore the cultural heart of Sri Lanka – the vibrant city of Kandy.

Along the way, they stop at a spice garden for a walking tour, seeing the aromatic world of spices. Next, they visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred site that houses a tooth of the Buddha.

Explore the vibrant Kandy markets and discover the region’s renowned handicrafts.
Stroll through the expansive Peradeniya Botanical Garden, marveling at its diverse flora.
Attend a captivating Kandyan cultural show, witnessing the mesmerizing drum dancing and fire walking performances.

Travelers then retire for the night in Kandy, anticipating the scenic train journey that awaits them the next day.

Spice Garden Walking Tour

As travelers embark on their journey from Colombo to Kandy, they make a stop at a spice garden for an immersive walking tour.

Guides provide insights into the origins, cultivation, and medicinal uses of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Guests explore the fragrant grounds, learning to identify these plants by sight and smell.

They witness demonstrations on how spices are harvested, dried, and processed. The walking tour offers a hands-on experience, allowing visitors to touch, smell, and even taste the fresh spices.

This stop provides a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich spice-growing heritage.

Temple of Tooth Relic and Kandy Markets

After exploring the aromatic spice garden, the tour proceeds to the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy.

This sacred Buddhist site houses a revered relic – a tooth believed to be from the Buddha himself. Visitors can witness:

The ornate architecture and golden roofs of the temple complex.
Devotees engaging in rituals and making offerings.
The chance to view the tooth relic during scheduled daily ceremonies.

Following the temple visit, the tour explores the vibrant Kandy markets, showcasing local handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce.

Guests can enjoy the bustling energy and cultural tapestry of this historic city.

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Peradeniya Botanical Garden and Kandyan Cultural Show

Following the vibrant markets, the tour explores the sprawling Peradeniya Botanical Garden.

Spanning 60 hectares, it’s home to over 8,000 plant species. Visitors can wander through the lush grounds, viewing the giant Javan fig trees, orchid house, and impressive palm collection.

After the garden, the tour heads to a Kandyan cultural show. Visitors are captivated by the energetic drumming, traditional dances, and thrilling fire-walking performances.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

With the day’s activities complete, the group returns to their Kandy hotel for the night.

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Overnight in Kandy

Guests spend the night in Kandy, a historic city nestled in the hills of central Sri Lanka. This charming city offers a unique opportunity to take in the local culture and traditions.

The evening includes:

A visit to the renowned Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site that houses a tooth of the Buddha.
Attendance at a captivating Kandyan cultural show, featuring traditional drums, dance, and fire-walking performances.
Exploration of the lively Kandy market, where visitors can browse a variety of local handicrafts and sample delicious Sri Lankan cuisine.

Highlights of Day 2: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya to Colombo

On the second day, guests embark on a scenic train journey through the lush, rolling hills of the Sri Lankan countryside. They’ll witness the mesmerizing beauty of valleys and tea plantations as the train winds its way to Nuwara Eliya. At the tea factory, guests can sample the renowned Ceylon tea and learn about its production process. Before returning to Colombo, they’ll also visit Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya, a picturesque spot surrounded by mountains. The tour provides a well-rounded experience, blending cultural elements with the stunning natural landscapes of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country.

| Highlights of Day 2 |

| — | — | — |

| Train Journey | Tea Factory Visit | Gregory Lake |

| Lush countryside views | Learn about Ceylon tea | Picturesque mountain setting |

| Valleys and tea plantations | Sample fresh tea | Relaxing experience |

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour offers two accommodation options – a standard package with 4-star hotel stays, and a budget option with 3-star hotels. Both include the all-inclusive Hill Country Blue Train journey.

The standard package also offers:

Entrance fees for top attractions like the Royal Botanical Garden, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandyan Cultural Show, and tea factory.
1 breakfast and 1 dinner.

The budget option includes a train ticket from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya instead.

Travelers should bring their passport and avoid sleeveless shirts.

Seating on the hill country train can’t be guaranteed.

Common Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Duration Beyond 2 Days?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration beyond 2 days. The tour operator offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your preferences, allowing you to explore Sri Lanka at your own pace.

Is the Train Journey First-Class or Second-Class?

The train journey is offered in both first-class and second-class seating, though specific seat assignments can’t be guaranteed. The tour includes the all-inclusive hill country train ride, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views in comfort.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal Option?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal meal option. The tour provider offers flexible dining accommodations and is happy to cater to dietary requirements with advance notice. Just let them know your preference when booking.

Can I Book the Tour for a Single Traveler?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a single traveler. The tour operator offers the flexibility to accommodate solo travelers without any additional charges. Single travelers can enjoy the same itinerary and services as part of the group.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional activities. The provider offers flexibility to tailor the itinerary based on the traveler’s interests and preferences. Additional activities may incur extra costs.

The Sum Up

This Sri Lanka private 2-day tour offers a captivating journey through the country’s cultural and natural wonders. Guests will enjoy the historic sites of Kandy, explore vibrant local markets, and marvel at the stunning tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya. With a scenic train ride and insightful experiences, this tour provides an unforgettable introduction to the enchanting highlights of Sri Lanka.