Kandy: Pinnawala Day Tour by Local Car (Local Guide)

The Kandy: Pinnawala Day Tour by Local Car offers travelers an immersive Sri Lankan experience. Priced at just $28 per person, this 8-hour tour showcases the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Guided by a local expert, visitors can explore the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, dive into Ceylon tea production, and discover the artistic craftsmanship of the region. With hotel pickup and drop-off, this comprehensive tour ensures a seamless and enriching journey through Kandy’s vibrant landscapes.

Key Points

• A comprehensive 8-hour tour exploring the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and cultural highlights around Kandy, priced at $28 per person.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, visits to a Ceylon tea factory, Royal Botanical Garden, and artisan workshops with an expert local guide.
• Offers opportunities to observe elephants in their natural habitat, learn about Sri Lanka’s tea production and spice heritage, and engage with local artisans.
• Provides a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option for convenience.
• Covers a range of cultural and natural attractions, such as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Mahaweli River, and Cinnamon Herbal and Spice Garden.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and other cultural highlights around Kandy.

Priced from $28 per person, the 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as visits to a Ceylon tea factory, Royal Botanical Garden, and artisan workshops.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour features an expert local guide to provide insights into the region’s natural and cultural attractions.

Itinerary Highlights

The day tour begins with pickup from the hotel in Kandy, followed by a visit to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage located 39 km away.

Guests will then tour a Ceylon tea factory, exploring the process of tea production and enjoying a tasting.

Afterward, they’ll explore the lush Royal Botanical Garden, the historic Nelligala Temple, and the scenic Mahaweli River.

The tour continues with a spice walk in Kandy, a visit to a gem museum, and a stop at a wood carving factory.

Explore Kandy’s vibrant spice walk, uncover the secrets of gemstones, and marvel at the artistry of wood carving.

Finally, they’ll visit the Bahirawakanda Temple and take in the panoramic Kandy City View before returning to their hotel.

Cultural and Natural Attractions

Although the day tour offers a diverse range of cultural and natural attractions, the highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to observe elephants in their natural habitat at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Visitors can witness the daily feeding and bathing routines of these majestic creatures.

The tour also includes a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses a sacred Buddha tooth relic.

Plus, the Royal Botanical Garden showcases a breathtaking array of exotic flora, while the Cinnamon Herbal and Spice Garden offers insight into Sri Lanka’s rich spice heritage.

Artisan Craftsmanship and Museums

Along With the cultural and natural attractions, the Pinnawala Day Tour also provides visitors with opportunities to explore the region’s rich artisan craftsmanship and museums.

The tour includes visits to a Wood Carving Factory, where guests can observe the intricate process of creating traditional wooden sculptures.

At the Batik Factory, travelers learn about the centuries-old art of creating patterned fabrics using wax and dye.

The National Gem and Geological Museum offers insights into Sri Lanka’s geological history and showcases an impressive collection of precious gemstones.

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Included and Excluded Items

The Pinnawala Day Tour includes several key services, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, a visit to the Bahirawakanda Temple, a guided tour of the Ceylon Tea Factory, and entrance to the Royal Botanical Garden and Cinnamon Herbal and Spice Garden. However, it excludes personal expenses, meals, gratuities, and entrance fees to attractions like the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Kandyan Culture Dance, and Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Travelers should also expect to pay for alcoholic drinks and any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusions.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup and drop-off | Personal expenses |

| Bahirawakanda Temple visit | Meals and beverages |

| Ceylon Tea Factory tour | Gratuities (optional) |

| Royal Botanical Garden entrance | Entrance fees |

Exploring Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

As the centerpiece of the Pinnawala Day Tour, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The orphanage cares for over 80 elephants, many of whom were abandoned or orphaned. Visitors can witness the elephants bathing in the river, feeding, and interacting with their caretakers.

The experience provides insights into the elephants’ behavior and conservation efforts. With guided tours and a chance to get up close with the animals, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a highlight of the day trip from Kandy.

Discovering Ceylon Tea Production

After witnessing the majesty of the elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage, the tour next turns its attention to the renowned Ceylon tea industry.

The group visits a local tea factory, where they learn about the intricate process of tea production:

• Plucking the tender tea leaves by hand

• Withering the leaves to reduce moisture content

• Rolling and shaping the leaves to release their essential oils

• Drying the leaves through oxidation, known as the "fermentation" stage

The tour culminates with a tea tasting session, allowing visitors to savor the unique flavors of this world-famous beverage.

Taking in Kandy’s Cultural Delights

Next, the tour immerses visitors in Kandy’s rich cultural tapestry. Highlights include the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a revered Buddhist site housing a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.

The tour also explores Kandyan cultural dancing, showcasing traditional dances and rituals. At the Gem and Geological Museum, guests can learn about Sri Lanka’s gemstone heritage.

Visits to a Batik factory and Wood Carving factory provide insight into local artisanship. The tour culminates at the Bahirawakanda Temple, offering panoramic views of Kandy’s lush landscape and the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Children?

The tour seems suitable for families with children. It offers a variety of cultural and natural attractions that would likely interest both adults and kids, such as the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Royal Botanical Garden.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities depends on their specific needs. Some sites like the botanical garden may be more accessible, while others like the elephant orphanage may pose challenges. It’s recommended to inquire about accommodations when booking.

Are There Any Dietary Accommodations for the Included Meals?

The tour doesn’t include any meals, so there are no specific dietary accommodations. Travelers with dietary restrictions can arrange their own meals during stops. The focus of the tour is on sightseeing and cultural experiences.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Personal Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit personal interests. Travelers can work with the local guide to modify the itinerary and focus on specific attractions or activities that align with their preferences.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also choose the "Reserve now & pay later" option, providing flexibility with their booking.

The Sum Up

The Kandy: Pinnawala Day Tour by Local Car offers an enriching cultural and natural immersion in Sri Lanka. Priced affordably at $28 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Ceylon tea factory, Royal Botanical Garden, and artisan workshops, all led by an expert local guide. Travelers can discover the vibrant heritage and stunning landscapes of the region while engaging with the country’s unique craftsmanship.

You can check availability for your dates here: