From Colombo & Negombo: Elephant Orphange and Kandy day Trip

Uncover the Charm of Kandy on a Private All-Inclusive Day Trip from Colombo or Negombo

If you’re planning a day trip from Colombo or Negombo to explore Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures and scenic beauty, this private tour offers a well-rounded experience. It combines iconic sights like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Royal Botanical Gardens, and the Labookellie Tea Centre, with special moments like observing elephants bathing—an authentic encounter that’s hard to beat.

What makes this tour particularly attractive? First, its all-inclusive nature means you won’t have to worry about extra costs, and all entry tickets are covered. Second, the tour’s private grouping ensures a personalized experience, with flexible timing and attention. Lastly, the combination of nature, culture, and craftsmanship provides a well-balanced glimpse into what makes Kandy and its surroundings so fascinating.

That said, some travelers note that early morning pickups can start as early as 5:30 AM, which might be a challenge if you’re not a morning person. Also, the day is packed, so expect a full schedule with limited downtime.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free exploration of Kandy’s highlights in a single day. Ideal for culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone craving a taste of Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions without the fuss of organizing multiple activities.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Enjoy a personalized, exclusive tour with just your group.
• All-Inclusive Price: No hidden costs; all entry tickets are covered.
• Diverse Highlights: From elephants to temples, gardens, and tea.
• Time-Efficient: A full day packed with meaningful stops.
• Authentic Encounters: Observe elephants bathing and learn about local crafts.
• Early Start: Pickup can be as early as 5:30 AM, so prepare for a long day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Review of the From Colombo & Negombo: Elephant Orphange and Kandy Day Trip

Ease of Booking and Pickup Arrangements

Booking this tour through Nelum Holidays and Tours is straightforward, especially with the flexibility of reserving now and paying later. The tour is designed as a private experience, which means your group won’t be mixed with strangers—perfect for those who prefer tailored itineraries and personalized interactions.

Pickup points are available from a wide range of locations including Colombo, Negombo, and several beach resorts like Bentota, Wadduwa, and Kalutara. Pickup times vary, generally between 5:30 and 6:30 AM, depending on your location. While early starts can be taxing, they are necessary to maximize sightseeing time and avoid the midday crowds.

Visiting Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary

The day begins with a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary, an iconic stop and often a favorite among travelers. The sanctuary is home to orphaned elephants rescued from various regions, giving visitors a chance to see these gentle giants up close. The highlight here is witnessing the elephants bathing in the river, which many reviewers describe as a magical scene.

Expect about an hour and a half at Pinnawala. Guests have noted that the elephants in the river are surprisingly calm and seem happy, which adds an authentic touch to the experience. Some reviews mention that you need to buy your own entry ticket if you want to enter, but the experience of seeing elephants in action makes it worthwhile.

Journey to Kandy and the Sacred Tooth Relic

After Pinnawala, the journey to Kandy takes roughly 1.5 hours by private car, during which you can soak in the changing scenery from lush countryside to more mountainous terrain. Upon arrival, the first major stop is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This revered Buddhist site houses the relic of Buddha’s tooth, drawing pilgrims and travelers alike.

Visitors are required to wear covered clothes—no shorts or tank tops—and the temple’s atmosphere is one of reverence. Guides often point out the intricate architecture and cultural significance, which adds depth to the visit. Expect around 2 hours here, allowing for a guided tour and some time for your own exploration.

A tip from reviewers: the temple’s serene ambiance and ornate design make it a highlight, but be prepared for a busy scene, especially during peak times. The aura of spirituality and history is palpable, and many find this visit profoundly moving.

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Lunch with a View and the Kandy Viewpoint

Post-temple, the tour includes a stop for lunch at a restaurant with panoramic views of Kandy. This is a perfect opportunity to relax, enjoy local cuisine, and take in the sweeping vistas of the city and surrounding hills. Photographers and scenery lovers will appreciate the sights from this vantage point.

Exploring the Royal Botanical Gardens

After lunch, you’ll visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, renowned for their extensive collection of orchids and other exotic plants. The gardens stretch along the Mahaweli River, offering lush, peaceful walking paths. Reviewers love the gardens for their vibrant plant life and the sense of tranquility they provide. Expect to spend around 1.5 hours here, enough to enjoy a leisurely stroll and capture some memorable photos.

Kandy Lake and Cultural Highlights

A brief walk around Kandy Lake offers a chance to see the city’s core and admire its peaceful waters lined with historic buildings. This quick stop lets you soak in the vibe of Kandy before heading to the Ceylon Tea Museum.

Ceylon Tea Factory and Labookellie Tea Garden

No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without sampling its world-famous tea. At the Labookellie Tea Centre and Tea Garden, you’ll learn about the tea-making process, walk through the lush tea plantations, and enjoy a tasting of some of the finest Ceylon teas. Reviewers mention that the experience here is both educational and delicious, with many appreciating the chance to see how their favorite brew is made.

Crafts and Souvenirs at Oak Ray

The tour also includes a visit to Oak Ray Handcrafted Wood Carvings, showcasing exquisite Sri Lankan craftsmanship. It’s an ideal spot for picking up authentic souvenirs and learning about traditional artistry, which many reviewers find enriching and inspiring.

Return and Relaxation

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel, arriving around 7:30 to 8:30 PM. While it’s a long day, the value and variety of experiences packed into this itinerary more than compensate for the early start.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers appreciate the private nature of the tour, which offers a relaxed pace and personalized attention. Many mention that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing interesting insights about each site. The all-inclusive pricing is praised for transparency, removing the need to worry about extra tickets or hidden costs.

Some guests highlight that the elephants bathing in the river was a particularly memorable moment, with one reviewer describing it as “a surprisingly peaceful scene, even amidst the crowds.” Others value the opportunity to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and learn about its importance in Sri Lankan culture.

A few reviewers note that early mornings can be rough, but most agree this is a small price for the extensive touring they experience. The scenic views from the Kandy viewpoint are consistently praised, often described as breathtaking.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activities.
• Remember to bring a long-sleeved shirt and long pants for temple visits and sun protection.
• Entry tickets are included, but bring some cash if you want to buy souvenirs or additional snacks.
• The tour is all-inclusive, which is great for budgeting, but check if there’s an option to customize or skip certain stops if desired.
• Be prepared for early pickup times and a full day out, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This From Colombo & Negombo: Elephant Orphange and Kandy Day Trip offers a rich, well-rounded snapshot of Sri Lanka’s culture, wildlife, and scenery. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive and hassle-free experience without the stress of self-organizing multiple visits.

Those interested in seeing elephants in action, exploring historic religious sites, and wandering through beautiful gardens and tea plantations will find plenty to love here. It’s a solid choice for first-time visitors or anyone eager to soak up Kandy’s essence in a single day.

However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace or deeper immersion into one particular aspect, this may feel a bit rushed. Still, for its value and variety, it remains a standout option for a packed, memorable Sri Lanka adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and walking gardens should find this tour engaging. Just ensure they are comfortable with early mornings and full days.

What should I wear for the temple visit?
Covering shoulders and knees is required. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are recommended to respect the religious site and for sun protection.

Are the elephants in Pinnawala safe to watch?
The elephants are in a rescue sanctuary, and the bathing experience is generally safe and supervised. Many guests find it a touching and authentic encounter.

How long is the drive from Colombo or Negombo?
The drive to Kandy takes roughly 1.5 hours, but early pickups and traffic can extend travel time slightly.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch is included at a restaurant with views of Kandy. Beverages are typically not included, but you can purchase them at stops.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you may discuss with your guide whether some stops can be shortened or skipped.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
Yes, expect to walk around the gardens, temple grounds, and scenic viewpoints, so comfortable shoes are a must.

What’s the best time of year to book this tour?
Sri Lanka’s dry season (December to April) offers the best weather for outdoor visits, but the tour runs year-round with good visibility and manageable crowds.

This tour balances cultural encounters, wildlife observation, and scenic beauty, delivering a well-rounded Sri Lankan experience in a single day. Whether you’re captivated by elephants, enchanted by temples, or love lush gardens, it’s a journey worth taking.

You can check availability for your dates here: