Explore Kandy & Nuwara Eliya in 2 days

Traveling through Sri Lanka’s hill country offers an enchanting mix of lush landscapes, colonial charm, and vibrant culture. This 2-day tour from Aktivitar promises a well-balanced glimpse into some of the island’s most iconic sights, all in a comfortable, guided package. While it’s a packed itinerary, it’s designed to showcase the best of Sri Lanka’s mountain jewels with minimal fuss.

What we really love about this experience? First, the chance to see stunning waterfalls like St. Clare and Devon, which are absolutely picture-perfect. Second, the opportunity to stroll through beautiful tea plantations, pluck fresh tea leaves, and learn about the island’s famed tea industry. Third, the mix of scenic drives and cultural stops in Kandy, including the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and the historic city center. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the tight schedule, which may leave some travelers wishing for more time at each spot.

This tour suits those craving a rundown of Sri Lanka’s hill country in a short period, especially if you’re keen to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and entry fees yourself.

Key Points

• Ideal for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Sri Lanka’s hill country highlights
• Includes all transportation and entry fees, offering peace of mind
• A balance of nature, culture, and relaxation in a 2-day format
• Comfortable accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Nuwara Eliya
• Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation policies
• Guided by English-speaking chauffeurs, ensuring easy communication and insights

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Colombo to Nuwara Eliya

The adventure kicks off early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Colombo, setting the tone for a day filled with scenic drives and beautiful stops. The drive itself is a highlight — expect winding roads through lush green hills that make for perfect Instagram shots, especially around Talawakele. Along the way, you’ll stop at St. Clare and Devon waterfalls, two of Sri Lanka’s most attractive cascades. These spots tend to impress first-timers with their natural beauty, and reviews mention that they are “definitely worth the stop for photos.”

After reaching Nuwara Eliya around midday, you’ll head straight to enjoy a local lunch. The restaurant choice is typically a local spot, offering traditional Sri Lankan dishes that are hearty and flavorful — a good way to fuel up for the afternoon.

Next on the agenda is a visit to the Pedro tea factory and plantation. Here, you’ll see the entire process of tea production and have the chance to involve in tea plucking with estate workers if you’re feeling hands-on. It’s a unique experience, giving you a real sense of the industry that has shaped much of Sri Lanka’s identity. Several reviews note that the tea factory tour is informative and enjoyable, with visitors appreciating the chance to taste fresh tea and learn about its history.

Later, you’ll return to Nuwara Eliya town for a boating experience on Gregory Lake — a serene way to relax after a day of travel. The lake views are often described as charming, and the city tour includes highlights like the Victoria Park and colonial architecture, which add a touch of old-world elegance.

Dinner is included at a local restaurant, with a complimentary beer adding to the relaxed atmosphere. The hotel in Nuwara Eliya is a 3-star property, offering comfortable, clean rooms and a good base to rest before the next day.

Day 2: From Nuwara Eliya to Kandy

The morning begins with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a drive to Kandy. The route includes a stop at Ramboda waterfall, one of the most scenic cascades in the region — a perfect spot for photos and a quick stretch.

Arriving in Kandy around late morning, you’ll visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. These gardens are famed for their vast collection of tropical plants, orchids, and towering trees, offering a peaceful walk amid vibrant flora. Reviewers mention that the gardens “are a great way to connect with nature” and note the impressive collection of orchids.

After lunch at Oak Ray Restaurant, the tour continues with a city tour. You’ll visit key sights like Upper Lake Drive, the market square, and local gem shops. Kandy itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a fascinating history as the last stronghold of the Sinhalese kings. The Ulpenge bathing pavilion by the lake, and the Kiri Samudraya island used by kings, are highlights that provide a glimpse into the city’s royal past.

The guide’s insights help bring the city’s history alive, and the vibrant market offers a chance to browse local crafts and souvenirs. The tour wraps up around 5 pm, and then it’s back on the road to Colombo, arriving around 8:30 pm.

Value and Practicalities

At $300 per person, this tour packs in a lot of value. All transportation, entry fees, boat charges, and accommodations are included, making it a hassle-free experience. The use of an air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking chauffeur guide ensures comfort and understanding throughout. The inclusion of meals — two lunches, a dinner, and breakfast — helps keep costs predictable, especially for travelers on a tight schedule.

While the tour is quite full, it’s designed for those who want to see a broad spectrum of what the hill country offers without needing to plan every detail themselves. It’s perfect for first-timers, couples, or small groups who enjoy guided experiences and don’t mind a packed itinerary.

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Notable Points from Guest Feedback

• Reviewers love the scenic views and the stops at waterfalls, with many saying “the waterfalls were much more impressive than I expected.”
• The tea plantation visit is praised for its authenticity and the chance to learn about tea production firsthand.
• Some mention that the schedule is tight, but the overall experience makes it worthwhile.
• The hotel stay in Nuwara Eliya is comfortable, offering a cozy retreat after a day of exploration.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for an efficient way to explore Sri Lanka’s hill country, this tour ticks many boxes. It suits travelers who appreciate nature, history, and culture, all wrapped into two days. It’s ideal if you prefer guided trips that handle logistics and access, especially if you have limited time but want an authentic experience.

It’s also a good choice for those new to Sri Lanka, as the itinerary covers diverse highlights without the stress of self-driving or navigating local transport. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace with more time at each site, this might feel a bit rushed.

This 2-day experience from Aktivitar offers a comprehensive taste of Sri Lanka’s hill country, blending scenic beauty, cultural insights, and relaxation. With well-organized transport and knowledgeable guides, it’s a convenient way to tick off major sights like waterfalls, tea plantations, and Kandy city in a short time.

The included visits to St. Clare and Devon waterfalls and the tea factory stand out as must-see highlights, perfect for capturing memorable photos and learning about local industries. The comfortable hotel stay in Nuwara Eliya provides a restful base, and the dinner with a complimentary beer adds a convivial touch to the evenings.

While the schedule can be somewhat tight, the overall value is hard to beat for travelers eager to maximize their time in Sri Lanka without the hassle of organizing every detail. This tour is particularly suited for those seeking a balanced mix of nature, culture, and comfort in a quick trip.

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour provides transportation via an air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

Are meals included?
Yes, two lunches, one dinner, and breakfast are included in the price, providing convenient options to enjoy local cuisine.

Can I participate in tea plucking at the plantation?
Yes, if you wish, you can involve in plucking tea leaves alongside estate workers, offering an authentic and hands-on experience.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in a 3-star hotel in Nuwara Eliya, known for comfortable rooms and a peaceful environment.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4 years and up are welcomed, with discounts for sharing with an adult. Kids under 4 are free when accompanied by a paying adult.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for registration and entry at sites.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the tour date.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, Sri Lanka’s hill country is generally beautiful year-round, but the best weather tends to be during dry seasons — typically from December to April.

This 2-day guided tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Sri Lanka’s enchanting hill country. It combines stunning natural sights with cultural experiences, all within a manageable schedule and budget. Perfect for travelers wanting a hassle-free, authentic taste of this beautiful region, it provides a memorable snapshot of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscape and heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: