Kandy: the Last Kingdom Private Day Tour From Colombo Harbor

Tucked away in the lush hills of Sri Lanka’s central region, Kandy once stood as the last stronghold of the island’s storied kingdoms. This private day tour from Colombo Harbor immerses visitors in the region’s rich cultural heritage, offering an engaging journey through aromatic spice gardens, historic tea factories, and sacred temples. From the majestic Bahirawakanda Buddha to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, each stop on this carefully curated itinerary promises to unveil a fascinating layer of Sri Lanka’s captivating past. With air-conditioned transportation and an experienced guide by your side, this tour promises to be a truly enriching experience.

Key Points

• Explore the cultural heritage of Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka, on a private day tour from Colombo Harbor.
• Visit iconic landmarks like the Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
• Gain insights into Sri Lankan tea production and spice cultivation at the Giragama Tea Factory and Mawanella Spice Garden.
• Enjoy a local lunch at Oakray Restaurant and witness the traditional gem and wood carving craftsmanship.
• Convenient pickup options from Colombo, Mount Lavinia, or Negombo, with an English-speaking guide and air-conditioned transportation provided.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This private day tour from Colombo Harbor offers a comprehensive exploration of Kandy’s cultural and scenic highlights, with prices starting from $120.00 per person and a duration of 10 hours.

Guests can choose from a range of pickup locations, including hotels in Colombo, Mount Lavinia, or Negombo.

The tour includes a visit to an aromatic spice garden, a tour of the historic Giragama Tea Factory, and a delectable lunch at the Oakray Restaurant.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to explore a gem lapidary and wood carving center, admire the Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, and visit the sacred Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Transportation and an English-speaking guide are provided throughout the journey.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors embark on an enlightening exploration through Kandy’s cultural tapestry, starting with a visit to the aromatic Mawanella Spice Garden. Here, they enjoy the rich fragrance of cinnamon, cardamom, and other exotic spices, learning about their traditional uses and medicinal properties.

The journey continues with a tour of the historic Giragama Tea Factory, where they witness the meticulous process of tea production and savor the distinct flavors.

The itinerary highlights include:

1. Enjoying a local lunch at the Oakray Restaurant.

2. Marveling at the imposing Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue.

3. Paying respects at the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

4. Experiencing a scenic drive around the picturesque Kandy Lake.

Spice Garden Visit

After exploring the cultural heritage of Kandy, the tour ventures to the aromatic Mawanella Spice Garden, where visitors enjoy the rich fragrances of cinnamon, cardamom, and other exotic spices.

The garden offers a captivating journey through the world of Sri Lankan spices, with knowledgeable guides explaining the history, cultivation, and uses of these flavorful ingredients.

Guests have the opportunity to wander through the lush greenery, touch and smell the vibrant plants, and even purchase fresh spices to take home as souvenirs.

This spice garden visit provides a delightful sensory experience, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich culinary heritage and the importance of these aromatic wonders in Sri Lankan culture.

Tea Factory Tour

Following the exploration of the aromatic Mawanella Spice Garden, the tour proceeds to the historic Giragama Tea Factory, established in 1824, where visitors gain insights into Sri Lanka’s renowned tea industry.

The tour includes:

1. A guided walkthrough of the factory’s tea processing operations, from withering and rolling to drying and sorting.

2. An opportunity to observe the skilled tea pluckers at work, harvesting the finest tea leaves.

3. A visit to the factory’s tea tasting room, where participants can sample a variety of fragrant Ceylon teas.

4. Learning about the unique terroir and cultivation methods that contribute to the exceptional quality of Sri Lankan tea.

The tea factory tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and traditions behind one of the country’s most famous exports.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gem Lapidary Exploration

Having explored the fragrant spice garden in Mawanella, the tour now takes visitors to a gem lapidary and wood carving center, where they can witness the intricate process of gem cutting and polishing. Guests are enthralled as skilled artisans carefully shape and refine raw gemstones, revealing their hidden brilliance. Alongside the gem work, the center also showcases the craftsmanship of local wood carvers, who transform ordinary pieces of wood into intricate, works of art.

Gemstones Offered	Cutting Techniques	Specialty Crafts	Local Expertise
Sapphires	Cabochon Cutting	Wood Carvings	Generations-old
Rubies	Facet Cutting	Jewelry Design	Skilled Artisans
Emeralds	Polishing	Sculpture	Family Tradition
Amethysts	Tumbling	Handicrafts	Artistic Flair

Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue

The towering Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue stands majestically atop a hill, overlooking the picturesque city of Kandy. This sacred site offers visitors a serene and breathtaking experience, as they gaze upon the serene expression of the colossal Buddha figure.

The statue was constructed in the 20th century and stands at an impressive height of 88 feet. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings and details of the statue, the lush, verdant surroundings that create a peaceful ambiance, and the sweeping views of Kandy and the nearby hills.

Plus, the site provides the opportunity to engage in meditation and contemplation. This iconic landmark is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the rich cultural heritage of Kandy.

Temple of Tooth Relic

Nestled in the heart of Kandy, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic stands as a revered symbol of Buddhist faith, housing what’s believed to be a sacred tooth of the Buddha himself.

This magnificent temple, with its intricate architecture and gilded roofs, attracts thousands of devotees and visitors from around the world.

During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the daily rituals and ceremonies that take place within the temple’s hallowed halls, and learn about the rich history and cultural significance of this sacred site.

The temple’s serene atmosphere and the reverence of the worshippers create a truly unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the heart of Sri Lankan Buddhist tradition.

Transportation and Guide

The private day tour from Colombo Harbor provides air-conditioned vehicle pickup and drop-off, along with an English-speaking chauffeur guide to accompany visitors on all sightseeing activities throughout the day. This ensures a comfortable and informative experience, as the guide can provide valuable insights and historical context about the various sites visited.

The transportation and guide services included in the tour offer several key benefits:

1. Convenience: No need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or public transportation.

2. Expertise: The knowledgeable guide can share local insights and cultural information.

3. Flexibility: The itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate personal interests or unexpected opportunities.

4. Seamless Experience: A hassle-free tour with all logistics handled by the provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off Included in the Tour Price?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price. The tour overview states that pickup is provided from hotels in Colombo, Mount Lavinia, or Negombo, and that transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle for the entire sightseeing tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional activities. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider and request modifications to the standard itinerary to better suit their interests and needs.

What Is the Dress Code for the Temple of Tooth Relic?

The dress code for the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy is modest, conservative attire. Visitors should avoid short skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops. Men and women are required to cover their shoulders and knees when entering the sacred site.

Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any specific age or mobility restrictions. Participants of all ages and fitness levels can join, though individuals with limited mobility may require additional assistance during certain activities.

Can the Tour Be Extended to Include a Visit to Nuwara Eliya?

The tour can be extended to include a visit to Nuwara Eliya, the picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations and colonial-era architecture. This would add time and cost to the tour, but would provide a more comprehensive experience.

Recap

The Kandy: The Last Kingdom Private Day Tour from Colombo Harbor offers a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures.

From the aromatic Mawanella Spice Garden to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, this immersive journey showcases the country’s diverse heritage.

With air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, and opportunities to savor local flavors, this tour provides a seamless and enlightening experience for visitors.

You can check if your dates are available here: