From Colombo: Kandy, Pinnawala and Tea Factory Full-Day Trip

Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture and natural beauty come alive on this comprehensive full-day trip from Colombo. Guests will explore the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, interact with rescued elephants, and visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond these iconic sights, the journey also unveils the island’s rich craftsmanship, from tea factories to other artisanal workshops. With comfortable transportation and multilingual guides, this immersive experience promises to leave a lasting impression. But what else does this day hold in store for intrepid travelers?

Key Points

• This full-day trip from Colombo includes visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, and a tea factory.
• The trip is priced at €72.09 per person and includes hotel pickup, transportation, and entry fees to the attractions.
• The tour offers wheelchair-accessible options and is led by multilingual guides, catering to diverse travelers.
• Visitors can observe the feeding and bathing of elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage and learn about Sri Lankan arts and crafts.
• The trip also provides opportunities to sample and purchase various Sri Lankan teas at a tea factory.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

This full-day trip from Colombo offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and natural wonders, taking travelers on a journey through the historic city of Kandy, the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and a visit to a traditional tea factory.

Priced at €72.09 per person, the 12-hour tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and entry fees to key attractions. Guests can expect free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

With an air-conditioned vehicle and multilingual tour guides, the trip caters to diverse travelers, including those with accessibility needs. This well-rounded experience allows visitors to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich culture and natural wonders.

Itinerary Highlights

The itinerary highlights a visit to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where travelers can witness the majestic creatures during their daily feeding and bathing routines.

Afterward, the tour explores the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, offering insights into Sri Lanka’s last kingdom.

Plus, the trip includes stops at a gem factory, craft factory, and batik factory, providing opportunities to learn about the country’s rich arts and crafts heritage.

The final highlight is a visit to a tea factory, allowing participants to sample and purchase a variety of Sri Lankan teas.

Transportation and Accessibility

Travelers embark on this full-day trip from Colombo in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey throughout the day.

The tour offers wheelchair-accessible options, catering to the needs of all travelers.

The multilingual live guide, fluent in English, Arabic, Chinese, German, French, Italian, and Hindi, provides an enriching and personalized experience, sharing insights and historical anecdotes along the way.

This inclusive approach allows travelers from diverse backgrounds to fully enjoy the cultural exploration of Kandy, Pinnawala, and the tea factory.

With these thoughtful transportation and accessibility features, the tour caters to the varied needs and preferences of its participants, creating a seamless and memorable experience.

Inclusions

Included in the full-day trip from Colombo are hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water and WiFi during the journey, as well as entry fees to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage ($15) and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic ($6).

Lunch at a restaurant with a viewpoint over Kandy, however, is at the travelers’ own expense.

The tour also provides opportunities to:

• Learn about Sri Lankan arts and crafts

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

• Discover the history of Sri Lanka’s last kingdom

For any inquiries, travelers can contact the tour operator at (+94 70 190 8834) or via WhatsApp.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

At the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, visitors can witness the fascinating daily routine of Sri Lanka’s gentle giants. Here, orphaned and abandoned elephants are cared for and rehabilitated, with guided tours allowing travelers to observe them during their regular feeding and bathing sessions.

Visitors can watch as the elephants are led to the nearby river, where they playfully splash and submerge themselves, showcasing their strong social bonds and the care provided by the dedicated mahouts. The orphanage also offers opportunities to see the baby elephants being bottle-fed, providing a heartwarming glimpse into the sanctuary’s efforts to nurture these magnificent creatures.

A visit to Pinnawala is an unforgettable experience, offering a chance to connect with Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife in a responsible and educational setting.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy is the most sacred site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka, housing what’s believed to be a relic of Buddha’s tooth. Visitors can explore the ancient temple complex and witness the daily ritual offerings to the sacred tooth. The temple’s architecture reflects the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka’s last kingdom, transporting visitors back in time.

The sacred tooth relic is said to have been brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD, and has since been an object of veneration and pilgrimage for Buddhists.

The temple complex features ornate buildings, intricate frescoes, and a picturesque lake, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

Attending the daily rituals and witnessing the cultural performances at the temple offer a unique insight into Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.

Kandy’s History and Culture

Kandy, the last capital of the Sri Lankan kingdom, boasts a rich and captivating history that has shaped the city’s distinct cultural identity.

As the seat of power for the Kandyan kings, Kandy was a bastion of independence during the colonial era, resisting both Portuguese and British rule.

Today, the city is home to the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses what’s believed to be a sacred tooth of the Buddha.

Visitors can explore Kandy’s historic landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and the picturesque Kandy Lake, while seeing the vibrant local culture, marked by traditional music, dance, and craftsmanship.

Exploring Sri Lankan Crafts

During the full-day trip from Colombo, visitors can explore Sri Lanka’s rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship, from intricate gem cutting to vibrant batik textiles. The tour includes stops at a gem factory, craft factory, and batik factory, providing an immersive experience in these age-old arts. Visitors can witness the skilled craftsmanship and learn about the cultural significance behind these distinctive Sri Lankan creations:

• Sparkling gemstones like sapphires and rubies, mined from the island’s mineral-rich soil and meticulously shaped by master artisans.

• Intricate batik patterns, where the wax resist dyeing technique is used to create breathtaking designs on vibrant fabrics.

• Handcrafted wooden and clay sculptures, showcasing the country’s long-standing tradition of fine artistry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Trip?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning their trip.

Can the Meeting Point Be Changed to a Different Location?

Yes, the meeting point can be changed to a different location. The tour provides hotel pickup in Colombo or Negombo, offering flexibility for travelers to start the trip from their preferred location.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for This Trip?

No special equipment is required for this trip. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the scenic views are recommended. The tour provider will accommodate any accessibility needs, including wheelchair access.

Will There Be an Opportunity to Take Photos During the Visit?

Yes, there will be ample opportunities to take photos throughout the trip. Visitors can capture images at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the tea factory. Photography is generally allowed during the tour.

Can the Trip Itinerary Be Customized to Suit My Preferences?

The trip itinerary can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator and request adjustments to the planned activities and locations within the allotted time frame. Flexibility is available to cater to personal preferences.

Recap

This full-day trip from Colombo to Kandy, Pinnawala, and a tea factory provides an immersive experience of Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.

Visitors can observe and interact with rescued elephants, explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth, and discover the country’s rich craftsmanship.

With comfortable transportation and multilingual guidance, this tour offers a comprehensive and accessible way to explore the highlights of this captivating destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: