From Colombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Tour

Set out on a captivating journey from Colombo to the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures. Witness the majestic elephants of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, then explore the historic city of Kandy, home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth. Indulge in a vibrant cultural show and savor delicious local cuisine. This one-day excursion promises an immersive experience that will leave you intrigued and eager to discover more.

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Key Points

A one-day excursion from Colombo to visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and explore the cultural highlights of Kandy, including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and entry fees, costing $73.69 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
At the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, visitors can observe the elephants during bathing and feeding sessions, as well as interact by feeding them.
In Kandy, the tour features a visit to the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth and a cultural show with traditional Sri Lankan dances.
After Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, guests have free time for lunch to enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at their own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kandy and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Tour is a popular one-day excursion that starts from Colombo. It costs from $73.69 per person and lasts around one day.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and entry fees. Highlights include visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, exploring Kandy’s landmarks like the Temple of the Tooth, and enjoying a cultural show.

Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later. The knowledgeable English-speaking driver ensures a memorable experience.

Looking for more options in Colombo? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour begins with complimentary hotel pickup from the Colombo area. Guests will travel by air-conditioned vehicle to the first stop, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located about 2 hours from Colombo. After the visit, the tour continues to Kandy, where the group will explore the city’s highlights, including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth and the bustling Kandy Market. At the end of the day, the tour returns to Colombo.

| Transportation Details | | |

| — | — | — |

| Pickup Location | Colombo area hotels | |

| Vehicle Type | Air-conditioned | |

| Return Location | Colombo | |

Exploring Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

After the drive from Colombo, visitors arrive at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located about 90 kilometers northeast of the capital city.

The orphanage is home to dozens of elephants, many of which were orphaned or abandoned. Visitors can observe the elephants during their twice-daily bathing and feeding sessions.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is home to dozens of elephants, many of which were orphaned or abandoned. Visitors can observe the animals during their twice-daily bathing and feeding sessions.

They’ll see the animals drinking, bathing, and interacting with their caretakers. Guests can purchase bananas and sugar cane to feed the giants themselves, creating an up-close, interactive experience.

The orphanage’s mission is to provide a safe haven for these majestic creatures and promote conservation efforts.

Discovering Kandy’s Cultural Treasures

Next, the tour moves on to the historic city of Kandy, the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings.

Visitors will explore the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth, a revered Buddhist site housing a relic of the Lord Buddha.

After, they’ll stroll through the bustling Kandy Market, browsing stalls selling local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

The tour culminates with a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dances, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage.

With its blend of history, spirituality, and vibrant local culture, Kandy captivates all who visit.

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Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens

On the way to Kandy, the tour makes a stop at the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. Visitors can explore:

Giant palms towering overhead, creating a serene, lush atmosphere.
An impressive orchid collection showcasing the vibrant colors and intricate blooms native to Sri Lanka.
Exotic flora, including rare and unique plant species found throughout the island’s diverse ecosystems.

The gardens provide a peaceful respite before continuing on to the historic city of Kandy and the cultural highlights that await.

There's plenty more to explore in Colombo

Lunch and Free Time

After exploring the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, the tour provides free time for lunch.

Guests can use this time to find a local restaurant and sample authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. The guide will provide recommendations on popular eateries in the Kandy area.

This frees up the itinerary to allow travelers to dine at their own pace and preference. Whether it’s a rice and curry dish, fresh seafood, or a vegetarian meal, the free time ensures everyone can enjoy a satisfying lunch to recharge before the next stops on the Kandy and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Tour.

The Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Market

The tour then takes guests to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, a UNESCO-listed site that’s sacred to Buddhists.

The tour takes guests to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, a UNESCO-listed site sacred to Buddhists.

Visitors can spend an hour exploring the temple, which houses a relic of the Buddha’s tooth.

The group then strolls through the bustling Kandy Market, browsing stalls selling a variety of local products:

Fresh produce, spices, and herbs
Handcrafted souvenirs and handicrafts
Vibrant fabrics and traditional Sri Lankan textiles

This lively market offers a glimpse into the local culture and the opportunity to interact with friendly vendors and pick up unique keepsakes.

Cultural Show and Return to Colombo

Following the completion of the visit to the Kandy Market, guests then enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dances.

The show presents a vibrant display of the country’s rich cultural heritage, with performers showcasing an array of authentic dances like the Kandyan, Sabaragamuwa, and Low-Country styles.

Visitors are captivated by the graceful movements, colorful costumes, and rhythmic drumbeats that fill the air.

After the cultural experience, the tour returns to Colombo, where guests are dropped off at their hotels, having discovered the highlights of Kandy and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Common Questions

Can I Visit the Orphanage on My Own Without the Tour?

Yes, you can visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage on your own without booking a tour. The orphanage is open to the public and you can purchase tickets at the entrance to explore the facility and observe the elephants.

Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the duration of the tour. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, allowing customers to customize the itinerary and length of the tour based on their preferences. Longer tours may incur additional costs.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Food for Lunch?

The tour does not include lunch, so travelers will need to purchase their own meal during the free time in Kandy. There are various local restaurants and markets available for participants to enjoy a meal at their own expense.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

There are discounts available for seniors (over 65) and children (under 12). Seniors receive a 10% discount, while children are eligible for a 20% discount on the tour price. The discounts can be applied at the time of booking.

What Is the Dress Code for the Cultural Show?

For the cultural show, visitors are expected to wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. This dress code is in line with the respectful attire required for visiting the sacred religious sites on the tour.

The Sum Up

The "From Colombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Tour" is a captivating one-day excursion that immerses visitors in Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders. Travelers can observe rescued elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, explore the historic city of Kandy, and enjoy a cultural show. With complimentary hotel pickup and free time for lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded experience showcasing the highlights of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.