Set out on a captivating journey to the enchanting cities of Kandy and Pinnawala with this private day trip from Colombo Harbor. Priced at a reasonable $140 per person, this 8-hour tour promises an immersive experience, from observing the playful antics of baby elephants at the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to exploring the rich history and cultural heritage of the UNESCO-listed city of Kandy. Savor a delightful lunch at the Oak-Ray Restaurant and indulge in a scenic upper lake drive, all while discovering the unique charm that makes these destinations true gems of Sri Lanka. But the true allure lies in what’s yet to unfold.
Key Points
- Private day trip from Colombo Harbor to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, priced from $140.00 per person.
- Tour includes pickup and drop-off services, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch at a local restaurant in Kandy.
- Visitors can witness baby elephants being bottle-fed and learn about elephant conservation at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
- Kandy tour highlights include the upper lake drive, bustling market square, and gem lapidary, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make the day trip convenient for travelers.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This private day trip from Colombo Harbor typically costs from $140.00 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Pickup and drop-off services are included, with the option to depart from the harbor or local hotels.
The tour features visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In Kandy, you’ll enjoy a city tour, including the upper lake drive, market square, and a gem lapidary.
The price also covers an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to the elephant orphanage, and a lunch at a local restaurant in Kandy.
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Pickup and Itinerary
The tour begins with pickup services available from either Colombo Harbor or local hotels, with an 8:30 AM departure from the harbor.
On the way to Kandy, the group will visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where they’ll have the chance to see baby elephants being bottle-fed and bathing in the river.
After the orphanage visit, the tour continues to Kandy, the hill capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In Kandy, the group will enjoy a city tour, including the upper lake drive, the market square, and a gem lapidary.
The day culminates with a lunch at the Oak-Ray Restaurant in Kandy before the return to Colombo.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
As the tour makes its way from Colombo to Kandy, it stops at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which was established in 1975 with just seven orphaned elephants.
Since then, the orphanage has grown into a successful breeding program, allowing visitors to witness the unique opportunity of seeing baby elephants being bottle-fed and bathing in the river.
The orphanage is home to over 100 elephants, many of whom were rescued after being displaced or orphaned.
Visitors can observe the elephants’ daily routines, including their scheduled feedings and bathing times, providing an up-close look at these magnificent creatures.
The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage has become a crucial sanctuary, not just for the elephants but also for educating the public about the importance of conservation.
Kandy Highlights
Kandy, the hill capital of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as the last stronghold of the Sinhalese Kings before it was ceded to the British in 1815.
The city boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, with key sites such as the Bathing Pavilion, Kiri Samudraya Island, and the center of Buddhism, arts, crafts, and culture.
Visitors can explore the bustling market square, take a scenic upper lake drive, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this picturesque city.
Kandy’s blend of natural beauty, historic significance, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring Sri Lanka’s diverse offerings.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyInclusions and Exclusions
This guided day trip includes port pickup and drop-off in Colombo, an English-speaking guide, entrance fee to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and a local restaurant lunch, along with bottled water for participants.
However, the package excludes entrance fees to any other sites not explicitly mentioned, as well as tips for the guide and restaurant staff, which are expected. Travelers should budget appropriately for these additional expenses.
The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Kandy’s cultural highlights, such as the last stronghold of the Sinhalese kings and the center of Buddhism, arts, and crafts in Sri Lanka.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing travelers to reserve their spot without upfront payment.
This flexible policy gives customers the freedom to book now and pay later, providing peace of mind in case plans change.
To secure a spot, simply complete the online reservation process. Full payment isn’t due until 24 hours before the tour’s departure.
Should unexpected circumstances arise, you can cancel your booking for a full refund as long as you notify the provider at least a day in advance.
This hassle-free booking and cancellation policy makes it easy to plan your Kandy and Pinnawala day trip from Colombo harbor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travelers commonly inquire about the key details of this Kandy and Pinnawala day trip from Colombo harbor.
What time does the tour depart? The tour van picks up guests at 8:30 AM from Colombo harbor or local hotels.
How long does the tour last? The full experience lasts around 8 hours.
Is lunch included? Yes, a delicious lunch at Oak-Ray Restaurant in Kandy is part of the tour.
Can I visit other sites during the tour? While the core itinerary focuses on Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Kandy highlights, the guide is happy to customize the day based on guests’ interests, time permitting.
Are advance payments required? No, travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Itinerary for the Tour?
Yes, the tour can be customized. Travelers can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary based on their interests and preferences. Additional sites or activities can be added or removed to personalize the experience.
Is There a Group Size Limit for the Private Tour?
The private tour doesn’t have a set group size limit. The price is per person, so the total cost depends on the number of people in the group. Travelers can book the tour for themselves or for a small group.
Are There Any Child-Friendly Activities Included in the Tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where kids can see baby elephants being bottle-fed and bathing in the river. The Kandy city tour also offers opportunities for kids to explore the local markets and cultural sites.
Can I Visit Other Attractions Near Kandy or Pinnawala?
Yes, there are additional attractions visitors can explore near Kandy and Pinnawala. The tour itinerary can be customized to include sites like the Temple of the Tooth, the Royal Botanical Gardens, or the Spice Gardens if travelers have more time.
Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Tour?
As this is a private tour in Sri Lanka, participants generally need a valid visa to enter the country. The specific visa requirements depend on the traveler’s nationality, so it’s best to check with the Sri Lankan embassy or a travel agent.
Recap
This private day trip from Colombo Harbor offers an enchanting experience, blending the captivating Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage with the rich cultural heritage of Kandy.
Priced at $140 per person, the 8-hour tour provides an opportunity to observe baby elephants, explore Kandy’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, and savor a delicious lunch.
This makes it an ideal way to discover the highlights of these stunning Sri Lankan destinations.
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