Pinnawala,Kandy Day Tour From Colombo/Negombo

Exploring Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders, the Pinnawala, Kandy day tour from Colombo or Negombo promises an unforgettable experience. From the captivating Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to the storied Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, this comprehensive tour takes visitors on a journey through the island’s rich heritage. Along the way, explore the production of renowned Ceylon tea and uncover the secrets behind Sri Lanka’s exquisite gemstones. With seamless transportation and a wealth of insights, this day-long adventure is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This day tour from Colombo/Negombo visits the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a tea factory, a gem factory, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
• The tour lasts 12 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off, and is priced at $60.00 per person.
• Visitors can witness elephants bathing, participate in tea tasting, observe gemstone processing, and explore the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
• The tour provides an opportunity to learn about Sri Lanka’s elephant conservation efforts, tea industry, gemstone heritage, and Buddhist cultural significance.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 5 reviews, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Pinnawala, Kandy Day Tour from Colombo/Negombo is priced from $60.00 per person and lasts for 12 hours.

It’s offered in English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, typically departing around 6:30 AM.

A comfortable air-conditioned ride with hotel pickup and drop-off, typically departing at 6:30 AM.

Based on 5 reviews, the overall rating is 4.4 out of 5.

While some have mixed experiences with tour guides, the vehicle comfort and supportive guides receive positive comments.

Visitors are encouraged to share their experiences and feedback on the tour.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is home to around 80 elephants, many of which have been rescued or orphaned.

Visitors can witness the elephants bathing in the Maha Oya River, an experience that’s both captivating and educational.

The tour also provides opportunities to feed the elephants and observe the staff’s interactions with the baby elephants, offering a unique glimpse into the care and conservation efforts at the orphanage.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s commitment to protecting these magnificent creatures and providing a safe haven for those in need.

Tea Factory Tour

After visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the tour takes visitors on a short drive to a nearby tea factory, typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.

At the tea factory, guests have the opportunity to:

• Learn about the tea production process, including hand-picking, fermentation, rolling, and drying.

• Participate in a tea tasting session featuring various Ceylon tea types.

• Gain an overview of Sri Lanka’s rich tea cultivation history.

• Explore the inner workings of the tea factory and observe the production in action.

Gem Factory Visit

Following the tour of the tea factory, the next stop on the itinerary is a visit to a gem factory near Kandy.

This short drive provides an opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s renowned gemstone industry, known for producing high-quality sapphires, rubies, and topaz.

At the gem factory, visitors can observe the intricate process of gemstone cutting and polishing.

They’ll also have a chance to browse the on-site showroom and potentially purchase gemstone souvenirs as a reminder of their Sri Lankan adventure.

This stop offers a glimpse into the country’s rich gemstone heritage.

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Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

After visiting the gem factory, the tour proceeds to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist site.

Visitors can explore the temple complex, which features:

• Intricate wood carvings and religious artifacts

• The opportunity to witness a daily puja (prayer ceremony)

• An overview of the temple’s significance as the home of Buddha’s sacred tooth relic

• Insights into the rich history and cultural importance of this revered Buddhist site.

Through this visit, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s profound Buddhist heritage and the country’s most revered religious landmark.

Transportation and Logistics

The Pinnawala, Kandy Day Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing convenient transportation throughout the excursion.

Visitors are whisked away in an air-conditioned vehicle, typically departing around 6:30 AM. The comfortable, climate-controlled ride ensures a relaxing journey to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, tea factory, gem factory, and Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

With all logistics handled, participants can focus on seeing the tour’s highlights without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads.

The transportation services contribute to an effortless, well-organized experience from start to finish.

Customer Reviews

Customers have offered a range of feedback on the Pinnawala, Kandy Day Tour. The overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 5 reviews suggests a generally positive experience.

However, some key points of concern include:

• Mixed experiences with tour guides, with some described as more drivers than guides

• Notable concerns about the herbal garden visit being overpriced and perceived as a tourist trap

• Positive comments about the comfort of the vehicle and supportive guides

Despite a few areas for improvement, the tour seems to provide a well-rounded experience for visitors to explore Pinnawala and Kandy.

Important Notes

Visitors are encouraged to confirm starting times and participant numbers during booking, as tour experiences may vary depending on these factors. Particularly in regards to the size of the group, as a smaller group may allow for more personalized interactions at the various stops. Plus, weather conditions can impact the schedule and activities, so checking forecasts in advance is recommended. To help plan your day, consider the following details:

| Activity | Duration | Notes |

| — | — | — |

| Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage | 1-2 hours | Peak visiting times can be crowded |

| Tea Factory Tour | 30-60 minutes | Timing may depend on factory operations |

| Gem Factory Visit | 30-60 minutes | Beware of potential sales pressure |

| Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic | 1-2 hours | Witness the daily puja ceremony if possible |

Common Questions

Can I Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

Yes, participants can typically stop for lunch during the tour. The itinerary often includes a break for a meal, allowing visitors to enjoy local cuisine at their own expense.

Is Photography Allowed at the Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the sites visited during the tour. Visitors are encouraged to take photos, but should respect any restrictions or requests from the staff or authorities at the different locations.

What Should I Wear on the Tour?

Comfortable, lightweight clothing is recommended for the tour. Wear closed-toe shoes suitable for walking, and bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Dress respectfully when visiting the sacred temple. Layers are advisable as temperatures may vary throughout the day.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there is typically an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can discuss this with the tour operator during booking or make arrangements on the day of the tour, depending on availability and additional costs.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and water. Most tour companies allow and encourage guests to carry personal refreshments to stay hydrated and nourished throughout the day.

The Sum Up

This day tour from Colombo or Negombo offers a memorable experience, allowing visitors to interact with elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, explore Ceylon tea production, and discover Sri Lanka’s exquisite gemstones. The tour culminates with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, immersing guests in the country’s rich cultural heritage. With convenient transportation and informative guides, this tour provides an insightful and enjoyable journey through the highlights of Pinnawala and Kandy.

You can check availability for your dates here: