Full Day Excursion to Kandy & Pinnawala From Colombo/Negombo

Exploring the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka can be a truly captivating experience. This full-day excursion from Colombo or Negombo promises to whisk travelers away on a remarkable journey, immersing them in the serene beauty of Kandy and the mesmerizing Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. With a knowledgeable guide, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the world’s largest captive elephant herd, stroll through the lush Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and even catch a glimpse of the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. As the day unfolds, one can only imagine the captivating stories that await to be discovered.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Full-Day Tours In Kandy.

Key Points

• This full-day excursion from Colombo/Negombo covers visits to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Kandy’s UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
• The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, refreshments, and admission fees, offering a comprehensive and value-for-money experience.
• Guests can observe scheduled elephant feeding and bathing sessions at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary for displaced and orphaned elephants.
• The tour also features a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, renowned for its diverse plant life and orchid collection.
• Pickup and drop-off services are available from various locations in Colombo, Mount Lavinia, Negombo, and nearby areas, ensuring a convenient and seamless journey.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day excursion from Colombo/Negombo to Kandy and Pinnawala is priced from $80.00 per person and lasts approximately 10 hours, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes transportation from and to the hotel, an English-speaking chauffeur guide, fuel and driver charges, refreshments and water, as well as all government taxes.

Visitors can reserve their spot without upfront payment, allowing them to book now and pay later.

The excursion offers a comprehensive experience, including guided tours, photo stops, free time for sightseeing, and walking at the key destinations of Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

Itinerary Highlights

The full-day excursion to Kandy and Pinnawala offers travelers a chance to explore the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to the world’s largest captive elephant herd established in 1975.

Visitors can witness the elephants during bottle-feeding sessions at 9:15 am, 1:15 pm, and 5:00 pm, as well as observe their bathing sessions from 10 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm.

The tour also includes a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, renowned for its vast collection of orchids and diverse plant life.

Lastly, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with significant historical and cultural significance.

Transportation and Pickup Details

For this excursion, pickup is available from all hotels in Colombo, Mount Lavinia, Wellawatte, and other nearby locations. Travelers can choose from six pickup options, including Mount Lavinia, Negombo, Colombo, Katunayake, Colombo 06, and Wattala. Similarly, there are six drop-off locations, consisting of Colombo 06, Mount Lavinia, Katunayake, Wattala, Negombo, and Colombo.

Pickup Options	Drop-off Locations
Mount Lavinia	Colombo 06
Negombo	Mount Lavinia
Colombo	Katunayake

The entire transportation is provided by private vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey throughout the day’s activities.

Inclusions

The excursion package includes transportation from the hotel and back by private vehicle, as well as the service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.

The price also covers the fuel surcharge and driver charges, as well as complimentary refreshments and water. All government taxes are included in the cost.

The package also covers the following entrance fees:

1. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: $12 per person
2. Kandy Tooth Relic Temple: $10 per person
3. Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens: $10 per person
4. Lunch at a local restaurant.

With this comprehensive set of inclusions, the Kandy & Pinnawala excursion offers an exceptional value-for-money experience for visitors.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Elephant Orphanage Activities

Visitors to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage can bottle-feed the elephants at three scheduled times throughout the day: 9:15 am, 1:15 pm, and 5:00 pm.

Plus, they can observe the elephants during their bathing sessions, which occur from 10 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm.

These interactive activities provide a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the world’s largest captive elephant herd.

Established in 1975, the orphanage serves as a safe haven for elephants that have been displaced or orphaned.

Visitors can witness the caretakers’ dedication as they tend to the needs of these gentle giants, gaining a deeper appreciation for the conservation efforts at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Botanical Gardens Information

Located 5.5 km west of Kandy, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens is known for its vast collection of orchids and diverse array of plant species. Established in 1371, the gardens were originally part of a palace complex and have since evolved into a premier tourist attraction in Sri Lanka.

Visitors can explore:

1. The magnificent Cannonball Tree, with its unique spherical fruits.

2. The enchanting Orchid House, showcasing a vibrant array of orchids.

3. The Palm Collection, featuring over 200 different species of palm trees.

4. The Japanese Garden, a tranquil oasis of bridges, pagodas, and bonsai trees.

The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich botanical heritage.

Additional Considerations

When planning this excursion, travelers should consider the weather conditions, as the tour may be affected by heavy rain or other inclement weather.

Plus, wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended, as the sites visited often involve extensive walking through gardens and historic landmarks.

Lastly, visitors should bring sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen, to ensure a comfortable experience during the outdoor activities.

It’s also important to note that while the tour includes entrance fees to the major attractions, gratuities for the tour guide and driver aren’t included in the package price.

Guests should be prepared to provide additional tips if they’re satisfied with the service provided during the excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour offers activities suitable for all ages, including bottle-feeding and bathing sessions with elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Entrance fees for children are also included in the package.

What Items Should I Bring for the Excursion?

For this excursion, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle. Guests should also pack any necessary medications and dress appropriately for the warm tropical climate.

Are There Any Age or Physical Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age or physical restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Participants can easily navigate the sites, though some walking is involved. The tour accommodates guests with special needs upon request.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Trip?

The itinerary doesn’t mention if Wi-Fi is available during the trip. As it’s a full-day excursion to multiple locations, it’s unlikely there’ll be consistent Wi-Fi access. Travelers should plan accordingly and ensure they have other means to stay connected if needed.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour operator generally allows customizations to the itinerary based on the customer’s preferences. Travelers can discuss their specific interests and requests with the tour operator to personalize the tour experience.

Recap

This full-day excursion from Colombo or Negombo provides a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to witness the captivating Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Participants will also explore the stunning Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

With transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and an English-speaking guide included, it’s an enriching and memorable way to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka.

You can check if your dates are available here: