Kandy: Tuk Tuk Adventure With Pinnawala & Ambuluwawa Tower

Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, offers an exhilarating tuk-tuk adventure that showcases the region’s natural wonders and rich heritage. Visitors can witness the gentle giants of Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, marvel at the panoramic views from Ambuluwawa Tower, and enjoy the verdant splendor of the Royal Botanical Gardens. This captivating journey promises an unforgettable exploration of Kandy’s timeless allure.

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Key Points

The Kandy Tuk Tuk Adventure tour lasts 8 hours and includes visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Ambuluwawa Tower, and other cultural and spiritual sites in Kandy.
The tour is priced at $36.00 per person with hotel pickup, and the group size is limited to 10 participants.
The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is home to the largest herd of captive elephants, offering activities like elephant feeding, bathing, and rides.
The Ambuluwawa Tower provides panoramic 360-degree views of the Kandy region and is a highlight of the tour.
The tour also includes visits to the Royal Botanical Gardens, Bahirawakanda Temple, Kandy Cultural Dance Show, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Kandy: Tuk Tuk Adventure with Pinnawala & Ambuluwawa Tower tour offers an 8-hour experience exploring the highlights of Kandy.

Priced at $36.00 per person, the tour includes pickup from any hotel in Kandy. The group size is limited to 10 participants. Guests can cancel the tour for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary covers the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Ambuluwawa Tower, Royal Botanical Gardens, Bahirawakanda Temple, Kandy Cultural Dance Show, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, allowing travelers to enjoy the city’s natural wonders, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance.

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

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is home to the largest herd of captive elephants, boasting 71 elephants (30 males, 41 females) as of 2023. Visitors can witness the daily routine of the pachyderms, including bathing in the nearby river and feeding time. The orphanage provides a sanctuary for elephants injured or abandoned, aiming to rehabilitate and reintegrate them into the wild when possible. Guests can observe the elephants up close, learning about their behaviors and conservation efforts.

| Activity | Time | Cost |

| — | — | — |

| Elephant Feeding | 10 AM & 2 PM | $10 |

| Elephant Bathing | 10 AM & 2 PM | $15 |

| Elephant Parade | 12 PM | $5 |

| Elephant Ride | 11 AM & 3 PM | $20 |

| Souvenir Shopping | – | – |

Ambuluwawa Tower

Perched atop the Ambuluwawa mountain, the Ambuluwawa Tower offers visitors panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Reaching an impressive height of 1,145 meters, the tower provides a breathtaking 360-degree view. Guests can observe the lush greenery, rolling hills, and distant peaks that characterize the Kandy region.

Perched atop the Ambuluwawa mountain, the tower offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the lush greenery and rolling hills of the Kandy region.

The tower’s modern design and observation deck allow for an immersive experience, where travelers can fully appreciate the natural beauty.

With 3 hours allocated for sightseeing and shopping, visitors have ample time to explore the tower and its environs, making it a highlight of the Tuk Tuk Adventure tour.

Royal Botanical Gardens

Spanning over 147 acres, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kandy offer visitors a serene and picturesque escape. Home to over 4,000 plant species, the gardens boast an impressive collection of orchids, spices, and medicinal herbs. Guests can stroll through themed areas, including the Fernery, Palm Garden, and Lotus Pond. The gardens also house a renowned Herbarium, featuring one of the largest collections of dried plant specimens in South Asia.

| Highlights | Duration | Cost |

| — | — | — |

| Orchid House | 1 hour | $5 |

| Spice Garden | 1 hour | $4 |

| Japanese Garden | 30 mins | $3 |

| Upper Lake | 1 hour | $4 |

| Victoria Regia Pond | 30 mins | $3 |

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Bahirawakanda Temple

Bahirawakanda Temple stands as a prominent landmark on the outskirts of Kandy, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s rich spiritual heritage.

The temple’s serene ambiance and ornate architecture provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city. During the tour, guests can spend an hour exploring the temple grounds, admiring the intricate carvings, and absorbing the peaceful atmosphere.

Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs by dressing appropriately and removing their shoes before entering the sacred spaces. This spiritual stop allows travelers to connect with Kandy’s cultural and religious traditions.

There's plenty more to explore in Kandy

Kandy Cultural Dance Show

The Kandy Cultural Dance Show captivates visitors with its vibrant display of traditional Sri Lankan dance forms.

Travelers are treated to an energetic performance featuring a variety of dances, including the Kandyan dance, Ves dance, and fire dance. Accompanied by pulsing drums and melodic music, the dancers showcase their agility and grace, moving with synchronized precision.

This cultural experience provides a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, leaving attendees with a deeper appreciation for the country’s artistic traditions.

The show is a highlight of the Tuk Tuk Adventure, complementing the other historical and natural attractions.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of Kandy.

Housing the sacred relic of the Buddha’s tooth, the temple is a revered pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide.

Visitors can explore the temple’s intricate architecture, adorned with detailed carvings and paintings.

The evening "pooja" ceremony, where the relic is venerated, is a captivating ritual to witness.

The evening "pooja" ceremony, where the relic is venerated, is a captivating ritual to witness.

The temple complex also includes a museum showcasing religious artifacts and cultural exhibits.

A visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is an essential part of any Kandy itinerary.

Additional Highlights

Beyond the primary sites, the tour also includes visits to several additional highlights that provide insights into Kandy’s rich cultural heritage.

Guests can explore the National Gem and Geological Museum to learn about Sri Lanka’s gem industry.

The Cinnamon Herbal and Spice Garden offers a chance to discover the country’s aromatic spices.

At the Wood Carving Factory, visitors can witness the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans.

Finally, the Kandy View Point offers panoramic vistas of the city and its surrounding hills, providing a scenic conclusion to the day’s activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Tuk-Tuk Driver?

While tour operators may accommodate specific driver requests if available, it’s generally not possible to guarantee a particular tuk-tuk driver. The tour company assigns drivers based on availability and logistics to ensure a smooth experience for all participants.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour doesn’t offer customizable itineraries. It follows a set schedule, which includes must-see sights like the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Ambuluwawa Tower. Travelers can’t request specific tuk-tuk drivers, as the tour uses a shared transportation service.

What Is the Maximum Group Size During the Tour?

The maximum group size for the tour is limited to 10 participants. The tour overview clearly states that the "Group Size: Limited to 10 participants", ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Can I Purchase Entrance Tickets on the Day of the Tour?

Entrance tickets are not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately on the day of the tour. The tour does not handle ticket sales directly.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

There are no specific discounts mentioned for children or seniors on this tour. The price is listed as a per person rate, without any age-based pricing variations.

The Sum Up

The Kandy Tuk Tuk Adventure offers an unforgettable exploration of Kandy’s rich heritage. Visitors can engage in elephant feeding and bathing at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, admire the breathtaking 360-degree views from the Ambuluwawa Tower, and enjoy the cultural experiences of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Bahirawakanda Temple, and Kandy Cultural Dance Show. This 8-hour journey is priced at $36 per person, providing a unique and captivating way to discover the natural beauty and cultural wonders of Kandy.