From West Coast: Kandy, Pinnawala, Botanical & Tea Gardens

Set out on a captivating journey through the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka, from the West Coast to the historic city of Kandy. This tour offers a diverse array of experiences, showcasing the country’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Witness the remarkable Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, explore the enchanting Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and learn about the vibrant tea-growing region. Along the way, you’ll uncover the island’s rich tapestry of traditions and discover why Sri Lanka is a destination that captivates the senses. Prepare to be enthralled as you unveil the hidden gems that make this journey a truly unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• This one-day private group tour from the West Coast visits Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and a spice garden.

• The tour covers key attractions in Kandy, including the culturally significant Kandy Lake and various religious sites like churches and temples.

• Participants can observe baby elephants, learn about the history and culture of Kandy, and explore the diverse flora at the renowned Peradeniya Botanical Garden.

• The tour includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, entrance fees, and tips, but food is not included.

• Guided tours are available in English and German, and the tour can be booked conveniently online with a ‘Reserve Now, Pay Later’ option.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This one-day private group tour to Kandy and the Botanical Gardens is priced from $90.00 per person and offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders.

The tour duration is one day, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guided tours are available in English and German for this private group experience. Guests can secure their spot by reserving now and paying later.

The itinerary highlights include visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and a spice garden.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, and tips are all included, though food is not.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour often begins at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to elephants of various ages that visitors can witness feeding, bathing, and playing. The focus here is on rescued elephants found injured or abandoned, with the opportunity to see baby elephants born in captivity.

Next, the group visits the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, a significant site in local politics that houses the relic of Buddha’s tooth.

The tour also includes a stop at the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, one of the best in Asia and ideal for bird watchers, featuring a diverse collection of trees, plants, and orchids.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is home to a large herd of elephants of various ages, where visitors can witness the pachyderms feeding, bathing, and playing. The orphanage focuses on rescuing and caring for elephants found injured or abandoned in the wild. Visitors have the unique opportunity to observe baby elephants born in captivity, a rare sight that showcases the orphanage’s successful breeding program.

Elephant Activities	Description
Feeding	Watching the elephants consume copious amounts of food, including fruits, vegetables, and grasses
Bathing	Observing the elephants submerge themselves in the river, spraying water over their bodies
Playing	Seeing the younger elephants engage in playful behaviors, such as trunk-wrestling and mud-slinging

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Having explored the captivating Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the tour moves on to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, located in the historic city of Kandy.

This significant religious site plays a crucial role in the region’s politics and culture, housing a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha.

Visitors will have the opportunity to witness the cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan drumming, dancing, and fire walking.

The temple’s ornate architecture and the reverence it commands from devotees create an immersive experience, offering a glimpse into the island nation’s rich heritage.

Exploring this iconic landmark is an integral part of understanding Sri Lanka’s spiritual and cultural tapestry.

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Peradeniya Botanical Garden

After exploring the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the tour proceeds to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, one of the best in Asia and a delight for bird watchers.

Originally a pleasure garden for a Kandyan King in the 16th century, the expansive garden features a diverse collection of trees, plants, and orchids that captivate visitors.

Covering over 147 acres, the garden boasts a vast array of flora, including a stunning collection of orchids and a towering Javan fig tree.

Visitors can stroll through the serene pathways, admiring the vibrant colors and soothing sounds of the garden.

The Peradeniya Botanical Garden is a true oasis, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

Spice Garden Visit

Next, the tour visits a spice garden located in Matale, which showcases the diverse array of spices and herbs fundamental to Sri Lankan cuisine and traditional medicine.

Here, visitors can learn about the historical significance of these ingredients, which attracted early merchants for trade.

The garden features a wide variety of spices, from cinnamon and cardamom to turmeric and black pepper, as well as medicinal plants used in Ayurvedic practices.

Guests can wander through the lush gardens, sample the aromatic spices, and gain a deeper appreciation for the role these ingredients have played in Sri Lanka’s vibrant culinary and cultural heritage.

City Tour of Kandy

The city tour of Kandy takes visitors on a journey through the historical and cultural heart of the city, with stops at a variety of notable sites.

Guests will explore Kandy Lake, a picturesque body of water surrounded by lush greenery. They will also visit several significant churches, Buddhist temples, and Hindu shrines that showcase the city’s diverse religious heritage.

The tour includes shopping opportunities at local spots like the Silk Garden, Hemachandra Jewelry, and Barefoot, allowing travelers to enjoy the vibrant local culture and bring home unique souvenirs.

Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides provide insights into Kandy’s rich history and the significance of the sites visited, creating a well-rounded and educational experience.

Booking Information

Booking the tour is straightforward, allowing visitors to check availability and select the desired participants and date to proceed with the reservation.

Once the selection is made, the website will prompt users to provide their contact information and complete the booking.

Travelers can then pay later to secure their spot, taking advantage of the convenient ‘Reserve Now, Pay Later’ option.

The booking process is designed to be user-friendly, providing clear instructions and guidance throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary or Duration?

Yes, the tour can be customized to meet the traveler’s preferences. Customers can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary or duration to suit their needs and interests.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Group Tours?

The tour’s cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for travelers and ensures they can recover their payment if their plans change unexpectedly.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific dietary restrictions. Participants can enjoy Sri Lankan cuisine during the tour, though food is not included in the tour price. Travelers with dietary needs should inform the tour operator in advance for accommodations.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private group option. Travelers can book a private tour and customize the experience to their preferences. The private group size and pricing may vary from the standard offering.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is a private group, which means the group size is tailored to the specific booking and not an average group size. The tour details indicate it’s a private group experience, allowing for a customized tour.

Recap

This enchanting tour from Sri Lanka’s West Coast to Kandy offers a captivating blend of nature, culture, and wildlife.

Visitors can experience the wonder of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, explore the lush Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and discover the region’s renowned tea production.

With its diverse highlights, this immersive journey promises an unforgettable adventure for all who embark on it.

You can check if your dates are available here: