Colombo/Negombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Orphange Day Tour

The Colombo/Negombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Orphanage Day Tour offers an engaging exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders. Travelers can expect convenient hotel pickups, a scenic drive, and immersive experiences at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Beyond these highlights, the tour promises further enchantment in Kandy, where visitors can discover the city’s serene lake, bustling markets, and the renowned Royal Botanic Gardens. With its captivating itinerary and reasonable pricing, this day tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

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Key Points

Full-day excursion from Colombo or Negombo to Kandy and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, priced from £50.21 per person with complimentary hotel pickup.
Private group transportation, English-speaking driver, and scenic drive through lush countryside, rubber, and tea plantations.
Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to observe elephants being fed and bathed, with no feeding, touching, or riding allowed.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, with 2.5 hours allotted for site exploration.
Enjoy the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kandy and stop at a scenic viewpoint for panoramic vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Colombo/Negombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Orphanage Day Tour offers a full-day excursion from Colombo or Negombo to explore the cultural and natural highlights of Sri Lanka.

The tour is priced from £50.21 per person and lasts one day. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

Pickup is included from all hotels in Colombo and Negombo, and the tour features a private car with an English-speaking driver.

Highlights include the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

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Pickup and Transportation

Pickup locations for the tour include Colombo and Negombo, with hotel pickups available across both cities. The tour provides a private group transportation with an English-speaking driver. Drop-off locations are at Negombo and Colombo. The scenic drive allows guests to enjoy the lush countryside, rubber, and tea plantations.

| Pickup Locations | Transportation | Drop-off Locations |

| ————— | ————- | —————– |

| Colombo | Private car | Negombo |

| Negombo | English driver | Colombo |

| All hotels | Comfortable | |

Itinerary Highlights

First, the tour takes visitors to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where they can observe the elephants feeding and bathing for around 2 hours.

Next, the tour explores Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Visitors will:

Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, offers a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and exploration of the vibrant Kandy Market.

Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing a sacred tooth of Buddha.
Explore Kandy Lake and the vibrant Kandy Market, where they can browse local handicrafts and produce.
Enjoy a stroll through the renowned Royal Botanic Gardens, showcasing a diverse collection of tropical plants.

The tour also includes a stop at a scenic Kandy viewpoint for panoramic vistas.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Visitors to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage can observe the majestic elephants during their daily feeding and bathing routines. The orphanage is home to over 80 elephants, many of whom were abandoned or orphaned. Visitors can witness the elephants being fed milk and fresh produce, as well as watch them bathe in the nearby river. The orphanage also runs a breeding program to help ensure the survival of this endangered species. Visitors are not allowed to feed, touch, or ride the elephants, but they can capture memorable photos and videos of these gentle giants.

| Program | Time | Cost |

| — | — | — |

| Feeding | 8:00 AM | Free |

| Bathing | 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM | Free |

| Nursery Visit | 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM | Free |

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Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

After witnessing the captivating elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage, the tour proceeds to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

The tour proceeds to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy after witnessing the captivating elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage.

This sacred Buddhist temple is believed to house the left upper canine tooth of the Buddha, considered the most sacred relic in the Buddhist world.

Visitors can:

Observe the ornate architecture and intricate carvings that adorn the temple.
Admire the daily rituals and ceremonies performed by the resident monks.
Explore the museum showcasing antique artifacts and learn about the temple’s rich history.

The tour allots 2.5 hours to explore this renowned spiritual site.

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Kandy Lake and Market

After exploring the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the tour continues to the picturesque Kandy Lake.

Situated in the heart of the city, the lake offers a serene respite from the bustling streets. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside promenade, taking in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

The tour then leads to the vibrant Kandy Market, where visitors can browse the stalls filled with spices, teas, handicrafts, and other local specialties.

Haggling with the friendly vendors is all part of the experience, providing a glimpse into the local culture.

Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kandy offer visitors a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. Spanning over 150 acres, the gardens showcase a diverse collection of tropical plants and trees.

Key highlights include:

Impressive array of orchids, including rare and endemic species.
Meandering pathways lined with towering palm trees and tranquil ponds.
Stunning views of Kandy city and the surrounding hills from the upper reaches of the gardens.

Visitors can spend an hour strolling through these lush, well-maintained gardens, providing a refreshing break from the tour’s other activities.

Kandy Viewpoint

From the Kandy Viewpoint, visitors can capture panoramic vistas of the historic city and the surrounding hills.

The viewpoint offers sweeping views of Kandy Lake, the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the lush green hills that cradle the city.

Sweeping views of Kandy Lake, the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the lush green hills that cradle the city.

It’s an ideal spot to photograph Kandy’s picturesque skyline and soak in the serene atmosphere.

The short uphill walk to the viewpoint is well worth the effort, providing a stunning perspective of this cultural heart of Sri Lanka.

Visitors should plan to spend about an hour at the Kandy Viewpoint to fully appreciate the stunning panorama.

Common Questions

Is Travel Insurance Included in the Tour Package?

The tour package does not include travel insurance. Travelers are responsible for arranging their own insurance coverage prior to the tour. Some tour operators may offer optional travel insurance, but it’s not a standard inclusion in this package.

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

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes a water bottle and King Coconut water, but additional snacks or meals are permitted to bring along.

What Are the Rules Regarding Photography on the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed on the tour, but visitors shouldn’t take photos of the animals up close or during sensitive activities. It’s best to respect the rules and ask the guide for guidance on appropriate photo opportunities.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children or Babies?

The tour may not be suitable for young children or babies. It involves visiting an elephant orphanage and temple, which could be overwhelming for small kids. Parents should consider the child’s comfort and maturity level before booking.

Can the Tour Itinerary Be Customized Based on My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized based on the customer’s preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the schedule and activities to suit individual needs within the given timeframe and locations covered.

The Sum Up

The Colombo/Negombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Orphanage Day Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders. Visitors can observe rescued elephants, explore the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and enjoy the beauty of Kandy’s lake, markets, and botanical gardens. This full-day excursion provides a memorable experience for those seeking to discover the highlights of this fascinating destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: