Kandy, Pinnawala Private Day Trip From The West Coast Beach

Sri Lanka’s west coast beaches offer a picturesque starting point for an enriching day trip to Kandy and Pinnawala. This private tour provides an opportunity to take in the country’s cultural heritage and natural wonders. From the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, the carefully curated itinerary promises an engaging and enlightening experience. With transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees included, travelers can embark on this journey with ease and discover the true essence of Sri Lanka.

Key Points

• This private day trip offers transportation from west coast beaches to Kandy and Pinnawala, with visits to the Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Tooth, and Botanical Gardens.
• The tour is priced at Kč 4,583 per person and includes a live English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and bottled water.
• The flexible itinerary allows for pickup from various western province beaches and covers the cultural highlights of Kandy and Pinnawala.
• Travelers should bring appropriate attire for temple visits and pack lightly, as large bags are not allowed.
• Reviews indicate mixed responses, with opportunities for improvement in the tour guide service and quality of the included lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This private day trip from the west coast beaches to Kandy and Pinnawala offers visitors an opportunity to explore some of Sri Lanka’s renowned cultural and natural attractions.

Priced at Kč 4,583 per person, the one-day excursion provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Priced at Kč 4,583 per person, the one-day excursion offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.

The flexible itinerary includes visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, and the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Transportation, a live tour guide, and entrance fees are included, though lunch and gratuities are optional.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins with pickup from various western province beaches, such as Bentota or Kalutara, before traveling to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which houses one of the world’s largest herds of elephants.

After an hour-long visit, the tour continues to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, a sacred Buddhist site. This is followed by a guided tour of Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.

The final stop is the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to over 4,000 plant species. Optional visits to a tea factory, arts and crafts, or spice/herbal garden are also available.

Included Services

The tour package includes several services to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as air-conditioned transportation. A live English-speaking guide leads the excursion, providing insights and information along the way. Bottled water is provided for hydration.

Convenient hotel transfers, air-conditioned transport, and an insightful English-speaking guide enhance the overall excursion experience.

The package also covers entrance fees to key attractions, including the Temple of the Tooth, Royal Botanical Garden, and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Lunch and gratuities are optional additions.

With these inclusive services, guests can focus on seeing the cultural and natural wonders of Kandy and Pinnawala.

Important Information

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card for identification purposes.

Appropriate attire is required for the temple visit, which typically means covering shoulders and knees.

The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems due to the extensive walking involved.

Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed on the tour, so travelers should pack lightly.

The organizers recommend leaving valuable items at home to avoid potential issues.

Following these simple guidelines will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience during the Kandy, Pinnawala private day trip from the west coast beach.

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Customer Reviews

According to a review analysis, the private day trip from the west coast beach to Kandy and Pinnawala has received a mixed response from customers.

The overall rating stands at 3.7 out of 5 based on 6 reviews. While customers praised the visits to the elephant orphanage and sacred temple, feedback on the tour guide service and restaurant quality was more mixed.

Some noted issues with the guide’s communication and the quality of the included lunch. The trip seems to offer a compelling itinerary, but there are opportunities to improve the customer experience, especially around the supporting services.

Getting to the West Coast Beach

Reaching the west coast beaches, where the Kandy and Pinnawala day trip begins, is relatively straightforward for most visitors.

The major coastal towns like Bentota, Kalutara, and Negombo are well-connected by public transportation, including buses and trains.

Alternatively, visitors can arrange private transfers or taxis directly from their accommodations.

Depending on the starting point, the drive to the pickup location typically takes 1-2 hours.

Travelers should factor in traffic and weather conditions, as well as time for navigation and parking, when planning their arrival.

Once at the designated meeting spot, the day’s adventure through the island’s cultural heartland can commence.

Elephant Encounters at Pinnawala

As the day trip progresses, the highlight for many visitors is the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

This unique sanctuary is home to one of the world’s largest herds of captive elephants. Visitors can witness these majestic creatures up close as they gather at the river for their daily bathing ritual.

The orphanage’s mission is to provide care and rehabilitation for abandoned, injured, or orphaned elephants. Guests have the opportunity to observe the elephants’ natural behaviors and gain insight into the challenges they face.

This intimate encounter with the elephants is a truly memorable experience for all who visit.

Exploring the Cultural Gem of Kandy

After witnessing the captivating elephant herd at Pinnawala, the day trip takes visitors to explore the cultural heart of Sri Lanka – the city of Kandy.

Visitors to Sri Lanka can explore the cultural heart of the country in the city of Kandy after witnessing the elephant herd at Pinnawala.

The guided tour of Kandy showcases its rich heritage, including:

• The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist temple housing a revered relic of the Buddha’s tooth.

• The Royal Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis home to over 4,000 plant species.

• The bustling local markets, where visitors can browse handcrafted arts and souvenirs.

• The scenic Kandy Lake, surrounded by verdant hills and historical buildings.

Common Questions

What Is the Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Trip?

The trip details do not specify a minimum number of participants required. The trip appears to be a private day trip, so it can likely be booked for a single traveler without requiring a group size minimum.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to fit one’s interests. The tour provider offers optional visits to a tea factory, arts and crafts, and spice/herbal garden, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their preferences.

Are Any COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place During the Tour?

The tour provider has implemented COVID-19 safety measures, such as requiring face masks, providing hand sanitizer, and limiting group sizes. Passengers must follow these protocols during the tour to ensure everyone’s well-being.

Can I Bring Snacks or Meals on the Tour Bus?

According to the tour information, travelers are not allowed to bring large bags or luggage on the tour bus. However, the policy on bringing personal snacks or meals is not explicitly stated. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific guidelines.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour package doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. However, customers could inquire with the tour operator about the possibility of adding extra time or activities for an additional cost. The tour’s set itinerary suggests flexibility may be limited.

The Sum Up

This private day trip from the west coast beaches to Kandy and Pinnawala offers travelers an enriching cultural experience. Visitors can explore the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Tooth, and the Royal Botanical Gardens, while enjoying the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife of the region. With transportation, a live guide, and entrance fees included, this flexible itinerary provides an excellent opportunity to take in the beauty and heritage of Sri Lanka.

You can check availability for your dates here: