Short on time but eager to experience the best of Kandy? This ancient Sri Lankan royal city packs several excellent full-day tour options. The most rewarding combine Kandy’s UNESCO-listed Temple of the Tooth with either the rock fortress of Sigiriya or the cave temples at Dambulla. I’m especially fond of tours that include stops at local craft workshops, where you can watch traditional wood carvers and batik artists at work.
The sweet spot for experiencing Kandy is booking a private tour with an English-speaking guide. You’ll get comfortable transportation and the flexibility to linger at sites that interest you most. My favorite combinations include the temple-fortress circuits, which provide the perfect mix of culture and history.
Let’s look at the top full-day tours worth your time and money in Kandy.
Key Points
- Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a range of highly-rated, private full-day tours that provide immersive cultural and historical experiences.
- Popular tour options include Sigiriya & Dambulla, Kandy & Pinnawala, Nuwara Eliya, and customizable city tours, catering to diverse interests.
- Key attractions covered in the tours include the Temple of the Tooth, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and local artisan workshops.
- Tours feature private air-conditioned transportation, English-speaking guides, and flexible itineraries, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience.
- Customer reviews consistently praise the tours for their value, knowledgeable guides, and ability to showcase Kandy’s unique cultural heritage.
Private Full Day Tour Sigiriya and Dambulla From Kandy
This private full-day tour from Kandy takes visitors on an exciting journey to two of Sri Lanka’s most renowned sites – Sigiriya and Dambulla.
Priced at $80 for up to 3 people, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees for Sigiriya, Dambulla, and other optional sites can be purchased separately.
The tour runs daily from 8 AM to 10 AM, except for Wednesdays when the hours are 8 AM to 9:30 AM.
With a moderate fitness level required, this tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Booking can be done with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour Sigiriya and Dambulla From Kandy Review
Book now: Check availability
From Colombo : Kandy Privet Full Day Tour With Pinnawala
A Colombo-based private full-day excursion to Kandy with a stop at the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage provides visitors an immersive experience in the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.
Priced from $64.53 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a flexible itinerary.
Highlights include the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens, and an optional traditional dance performance.
With wheelchair accessibility and a 24-hour cancellation policy, this tour offers convenience and value.
Whether exploring the Kandy Lake or learning about Sri Lankan tea production, this private tour delivers a comprehensive introduction to the cultural riches of the region.
Read our full review: From Colombo : Kandy Privet Full Day Tour With Pinnawala Review
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Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour Full Day
Travelers seeking an immersive and flexible way to explore Kandy can opt for the Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour, a full-day private excursion priced from €9.62 per person.
This tour offers personalized transportation in a tuk tuk, along with a knowledgeable driver/guide and bottled water. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, the tour can be tailored to the group’s preferences, including cultural activities like a dance show.
Reviews highlight the tour’s strengths, such as the guide’s expertise and the ability to adjust the itinerary.
Pickup is available at any location in Kandy or the Kandy Railway Station, with an 8 AM start time.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour Full Day Review
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Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour From Bentota and Kalutara
Embarking on a full-day tour from Bentota and Kalutara, travelers can enjoy the captivating sights and cultural experiences of Kandy.
Priced from $120 per person, the 12-14 hour tour includes visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Highlights include observing elephants in their natural habitat, exploring Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist temple, and discovering diverse flora on a self-guided tour.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour offers flexibility and convenience.
Transportation, guided tours, and entrance fees are included, making it an enriching and hassle-free way to discover the wonders of Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour From Bentota and Kalutara Review
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Private Full Day Tour to Nuwara Eliya From Kandy
Visitors seeking to explore the stunning highlands of Sri Lanka can embark on a private full-day tour from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya.
This tour offers convenient pickup from any location in Kandy, and transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Travelers will enjoy a free visit to a local tea factory, where they can sample the region’s renowned teas.
The tour also includes entrance to Gregory Park and complimentary coffee or tea. With a 5.0 rating from 4 reviews, this private tour is an excellent choice for those looking to discover the picturesque beauty of Nuwara Eliya.
Flexible scheduling and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour a hassle-free addition to any Sri Lankan itinerary.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour to Nuwara Eliya From Kandy Review
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Kandy: Full Day Private Custom City Tour!
This full-day private tour offers an immersive exploration of Kandy’s captivating cultural and natural wonders. Priced at $65 per person, this 9-hour experience allows for a customized itinerary at your own pace.
Highlights include the Bahirawakanda Buddha statue, a tea plantation, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and the iconic Temple of the Tooth. Included are a private air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking driver, and all entrance fees.
Roundtrip hotel transfers and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour convenient and flexible. Appropriate attire is required for sacred sites.
With a complimentary policy for children 4 and under, this tour caters to families as well.
Read our full review: Kandy: Full Day Private Custom City Tour! Review
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Full Day Private Kandy/ Sigiriya Sightseeing Tour
On this full-day private tour, travelers will embark on an immersive journey through the captivating landscapes of Kandy and Sigiriya in Sri Lanka.
Priced from $75.07 per group of up to 8 people, the tour includes private transportation, bottled water, Wi-Fi or a local SIM card, and all transportation-related expenses.
Travelers can enjoy the convenience of unlimited mileage and train tickets to Ella.
The tour is accessible, with infant seats, wheelchair access, and stroller availability.
Participants must be able to participate without serious medical conditions.
With a 5.0 rating from 1 review, this tour offers a personalized and comfortable sightseeing experience in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Kandy/ Sigiriya Sightseeing Tour Review
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Full Day Excursion to Kandy & Pinnawala From Colombo/Negombo
Embarking on a comprehensive day-long exploration, travelers can enjoy the captivating sights and cultural wonders of Kandy and Pinnawala.
Priced at $80 per person, this full-day tour includes pickup from various locations, transportation by private vehicle, and an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to the world’s largest captive elephant herd, and the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Visitors will also explore the renowned Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
Lunch at a local restaurant and all entrance fees are included.
Travelers should bring their passport or ID card and dress modestly when visiting sacred sites.
This tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to discover the natural and cultural wonders of Kandy and Pinnawala.
Read our full review: Full Day Excursion to Kandy & Pinnawala From Colombo/Negombo Review
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Full Day Kandy Walking Tour With TUK Tuk Ride to Peradeniya Gardens
Travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of Kandy can embark on a full-day walking tour that showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
This tour includes a TUK TUK ride to the stunning Peradeniya Gardens, as well as visits to the iconic Temple of the Tooth and the picturesque Kandy Lake.
Along the way, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the significance of these sites with the guidance of a knowledgeable local host.
The tour also features stops at gem shops, handicraft stores, and the vibrant Kandy market, providing a well-rounded experience of the city’s vibrant culture and traditions.
With a moderate physical fitness level required, this tour offers an immersive and enriching way to discover the enchanting city of Kandy.
Read our full review: Full Day Kandy Walking Tour With TUK Tuk Ride to Peradeniya Gardens Review
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Full Day Kandy City Tour From Kandy.
A comprehensive Kandy city tour from the city itself provides visitors with a captivating exploration of the region’s cultural treasures and natural wonders.
Operated by JK Travels Sri Lanka, this private full-day tour offers a tailor-made experience, ensuring you’ll be the only group participating. Priced at €33.68 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance tickets, and bottled water, making it a cost-effective way to discover Kandy.
With pickup at 7:30 am and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour is both convenient and flexible. Rated 5 stars, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive Kandy experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Kandy City Tour From Kandy. Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Kandy offers a diverse range of full-day tours that cater to different interests. From visiting ancient sites like Sigiriya and Dambulla to exploring the city’s cultural landmarks, there’s something for all. Visitors can also enjoy a tuk-tuk tour of Kandy or a day trip to nearby Pinnawala. With so many options, travelers can easily find a full-day tour that suits their preferences and provides a comprehensive experience in and around Kandy.