Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour From Bentota and Kalutara

Explore the cultural heart of Sri Lanka with the Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour. Departing from Bentota and Kalutara, this comprehensive excursion takes visitors on a journey through the country’s natural wonders and sacred sites. From the iconic Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to the revered Temple of the Tooth, the tour offers a immersive experience that showcases the island’s diverse heritage. With convenient transportation and inclusive entrance fees, this day trip provides an effortless way to uncover the splendor of Kandy and its surroundings. What awaits beyond the itinerary’s highlights, however, is a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s captivating history and traditions.

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

Key Points

• The Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour from Bentota and Kalutara is a 12-14 hour tour with a price of €109.85 per person, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour covers key attractions like the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and a spice garden in Matale.
• The tour provides insights into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, with visits to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kandy and opportunities to experience traditional cultural shows.
• Comprehensive transportation, guided tours, and entrance fees are included, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for visitors.
• The tour offers opportunities to observe elephants, explore the Botanical Garden, and learn about Sri Lankan tea production, making it a well-rounded exploration of Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Kandy Pinnawala full-day tour from Bentota and Kalutara is priced at €109.85 per person and lasts between 12 to 14 hours.

Guests have the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. They can also choose the reserve now and pay later option.

Pickup is available from Colombo, Bentota, Kalutara, and resorts along the west coast.

The tour includes visits to several key attractions such as the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and Kandy city.

Plus, guests will explore a spice garden in Matale and a tea factory, all while learning about Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Itinerary Highlights

The Kandy Pinnawala full-day tour typically begins with a pickup from Bentota, followed by a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage where guests can observe the elephants bathing, feeding, and playing. The tour then proceeds to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist temple, before exploring the Peradeniya Botanical Garden and its diverse flora. Next, a city tour of Kandy allows visitors to discover historical sites and enjoy shopping. The tour also includes a stop at a spice garden in Matale, where guests can learn about the spices and herbs used in Sri Lankan cuisine, and a visit to a tea factory.

Activity	Duration
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage	1 hour
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic	1 hour
Peradeniya Botanical Garden	1 hour

Cultural Significance

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) holds immense cultural significance, as it houses the relic of Buddha’s tooth, which has played a pivotal role in the local politics and governance of Sri Lanka.

Kandy, the last capital of the Sinhalese kings, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Visitors to the city can also witness a captivating cultural show featuring traditional drumming, dancing, and the awe-inspiring fire walking performance.

These cultural elements, deeply rooted in Sri Lankan history and tradition, add to the enchanting experience of the Kandy Pinnawala full-day tour, providing a glimpse into the country’s vibrant and diverse cultural landscape.

Transportation and Inclusions

Complementing the culture, the tour package includes comprehensive ground transportation and a range of inclusions to ensure a seamless and enriching experience. The tour offers:

• Pickup and drop-off from over 400 hotels along the west coast, providing convenience and flexibility.

• Guided tours of the key attractions, including Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and the spice garden in Matale.

• Entrance fees to all the included sites, eliminating the need for additional expenses and allowing for a stress-free exploration of the region’s highlights.

The comprehensive transportation and inclusions make this Kandy Pinnawala full-day tour from Bentota and Kalutara an all-encompassing and seamless experience for visitors.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Important Information

Adhering to temple etiquette, visitors are required to wear suitable attire when visiting the sacred Temple of the Tooth.

Plus, tour start times may vary subject to availability, so it’s advisable to confirm the schedule prior to the tour.

During the full-day excursion, guests will have the opportunity to observe elephants bathing and feeding at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, explore the serene Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and enjoy a city tour of Kandy, the last capital of the Sinhalese kings.

Participants will also visit a spice garden in Matale and learn about Sri Lankan tea production.

With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience at a flexible and convenient pace.

Elephant Orphanage Experience

Visitors can observe the majestic elephants bathing, feeding, and playing at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary dedicated to caring for these gentle giants.

The orphanage is home to over 100 elephants, many of whom were abandoned or orphaned. Guests can:

1. Witness the daily elephant feeding and bathing routines, which provide a unique insight into the elephants’ behavior and care.

2. Explore the expansive grounds and see the elephants interacting with their caretakers.

3. Learn about the orphanage’s conservation efforts and the challenges of protecting these endangered animals.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers a captivating and educational experience, allowing visitors to connect with these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.

Sacred Tooth Relic Temple

After exploring the elephant orphanage, the tour heads to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist site and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure.

The temple houses the relic of Buddha’s tooth, a revered object that’s been central to local politics and governance for centuries. Visitors can marvel at the temple’s ornate architecture and intricate wood carvings as they learn about its rich cultural significance.

The guided tour provides insights into the relic’s history and its importance in Sri Lankan Buddhism. Guests can also witness a cultural show featuring traditional drumming, dancing, and the mesmerizing fire-walking ritual, offering a glimpse into the country’s vibrant heritage.

Botanical Garden Exploration

Next on the itinerary, the tour explores the renowned Peradeniya Botanical Garden, a sprawling oasis of diverse flora and picturesque landscapes. Guests can stroll through meticulously maintained pathways, marveling at the vibrant array of tropical plants, towering trees, and serene waterways that comprise this botanical paradise.

The garden’s highlights include:

1. The stunning Royal Botanic Gardens, with over 4,000 plant species spread across 147 acres.

2. The enchanting Orchid House, showcasing a vast collection of colorful orchids unique to Sri Lanka.

3. The towering Javan fig tree, one of the largest of its kind in the world.

Visitors can enjoy the tranquil beauty of this horticultural gem, a true highlight of the Kandy Pinnawala tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Interact With the Elephants at the Orphanage?

Visitors can observe the elephants bathing, feeding, and playing at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, but they won’t be able to physically interact with the elephants. The orphanage aims to protect and care for the elephants rather than allow direct contact.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic?

Photography is generally not allowed inside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Visitors must follow the dress code and show respect for this sacred Buddhist site. Photography may be permitted in designated areas outside the main temple buildings.

What Types of Flora Can We Expect to See at the Peradeniya Botanical Garden?

The Peradeniya Botanical Garden features a diverse array of plant life, including lush tropical flowers, towering palm trees, and rare plant species. Visitors can expect to see vibrant orchids, exotic spice plants, and the iconic royal botanical gardens’ giant ficus tree.

Is There an Opportunity to Try Local Cuisine During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a visit to a spice garden in Matale where visitors can discover the spices and herbs used in traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. This provides an opportunity to learn about and potentially sample local culinary specialties.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Specific Interests or Needs?

The tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests or needs. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who may be able to modify the itinerary or include additional activities to cater to individual interests.

Recap

The Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour offers an enriching cultural and natural experience in Sri Lanka’s scenic landscapes.

From the captivating Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to the sacred Temple of the Tooth and the stunning Peradeniya Botanical Garden, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s heritage and beauty.

With convenient transportation and inclusive entrance fees, it’s an ideal way to take in the vibrant wonders of Kandy.

You can check if your dates are available here: