Kandy to Pinnawala Day Tour By Local Tuk Tuk Expedition

The Kandy to Pinnawala Day Tour by Local Tuk Tuk Expedition offers travelers an immersive journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural highlights. This affordable full-day excursion takes guests to iconic sites like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, while also showcasing the Royal Botanical Garden and opportunities to experience artisan craftsmanship. With flexible itineraries and knowledgeable guides, participants can enjoy stunning landscapes, cultural performances, and a chance to uncover the unique charms that make this tour a must-consider for any Sri Lankan adventure. What sets this expedition apart, however, is the opportunity to explore these wonders by the unique mode of transportation – the local tuk tuk.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours In Pinnawala.

Contents hide

1 Tour Overview and Highlights

2 Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

3 Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

4 Royal Botanical Garden

5 Artisan Craftsmanship Experiences

6 Scenic Viewpoints and Attractions

7 Inclusions, Exclusions, and Pricing

8 Customer Feedback and Experiences

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

This full-day tour covers iconic sites in Kandy and Pinnawala, including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Royal Botanical Garden, and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
Visitors can experience Kandyan cultural performances, explore artisan craftsmanship, and enjoy scenic viewpoints along the way, covering approximately 39 km.
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with additional entrance fees for select attractions not covered in the base price.
Flexible itinerary and convenient pickups from multiple locations in Kandy make this tour accessible to a range of travelers.
While the tour has received positive reviews, there are some concerns raised about the treatment of elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Kandy to Pinnawala Day Tour by Local Tuk Tuk Expedition offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural highlights, with prices starting from £13.12 per person for a full-day excursion.

Travelers can expect to visit iconic sites like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Royal Botanical Garden, and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. They will also have the opportunity to experience Kandyan cultural performances and observe artisan craftsmanship at local workshops.

The tour covers a total distance of approximately 39 km to Pinnawala, with various additional stops along the way, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s diverse attractions.

The flexible itinerary and convenient pickups from multiple locations in Kandy make this tour an accessible and enriching way to discover the best of the area.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Pinnawala.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Situated within the lush landscape of Pinnawala, the Elephant Orphanage stands as a sanctuary dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of abandoned, injured, or orphaned elephants. Visitors can witness the elephants during their daily bathing ritual in the nearby river, as well as observe the caretakers feeding and interacting with the gentle giants. The orphanage’s mission extends beyond conservation, with a focus on educating the public about elephants and their importance in Sri Lankan culture. While the attraction has received some criticism over the years, the orphanage continues to play a crucial role in preserving the wellbeing of these magnificent creatures.

Key Information
Location	Pinnawala, Sri Lanka
Establishment	1975
Purpose	Elephant Rehabilitation and Conservation
Attractions	Daily Bathing, Feeding, Interaction	Educational Exhibits

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Why is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic considered one of Sri Lanka’s most important and sacred sites? This revered Buddhist temple in the historic city of Kandy houses a renowned relic – a tooth believed to have belonged to the Buddha himself.

The temple’s significance stems from several factors:

It’s a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists, as the tooth relic is viewed as the symbol of the ruling dynasty.
The temple’s magnificent architecture, which blends local and South Indian styles, is a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
The daily rituals and ceremonial processions held at the temple offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s vibrant Buddhist traditions.
The temple’s location within the royal palace complex adds to its historical and cultural significance.

Royal Botanical Garden

Nestled just a short distance from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy is a lush oasis renowned for its diverse collection of exotic flora.

Spanning over 147 acres, the garden boasts an impressive array of plant life, including towering trees, vibrant flowers, and rare medicinal herbs.

Visitors can stroll through well-manicured pathways, admiring the serene ponds and the stunning Mahaweli River that flows through the property.

The garden also features several historic structures, such as the Queen Victoria Memorial Jubilee Clock Tower, adding to the charm and cultural significance of this enchanting green space.

With free admission, the Royal Botanical Garden offers a delightful respite from the bustling city.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Artisan Craftsmanship Experiences

Artisan craftsmanship takes center stage on this immersive day tour, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the skilled hands that produce Sri Lanka’s renowned cultural artifacts.

The tour includes stops at:

A wood carving factory, where you’ll witness the intricate process of crafting ornate masks, figurines, and other decorative pieces that epitomize Kandyan traditions.
A batik factory, where you’ll learn about the ancient art of wax-resist dyeing and observe the meticulous application of vibrant patterns onto fabrics.
A gem museum, showcasing the country’s rich gemstone heritage and the exceptional craftsmanship of Sri Lankan jewelers.
A Kandyan cultural dance performance, highlighting the expressive movements and vibrant costumes that have been passed down through generations.

Scenic Viewpoints and Attractions

Alongside the captivating artisanal experiences, the tour immerses visitors in Sri Lanka’s natural splendor, showcasing breathtaking viewpoints and renowned botanical gardens.

The Kandy View Point offers panoramic vistas of the lush landscapes surrounding the historic city, while the Mahaweli River provides tranquil scenes of the country’s longest waterway.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Royal Botanical Garden, a sprawling oasis renowned for its diverse flora and serene atmosphere. Visitors can wander through the well-manicured grounds, admiring the vibrant flowers, towering trees, and picturesque ponds.

This immersion in Sri Lanka’s natural beauty complements the cultural and artistic encounters, creating a truly holistic exploration of the island’s treasures.

Inclusions, Exclusions, and Pricing

The tour package comes with a range of inclusions, but there are also several exclusions that visitors should be aware of when budgeting for the experience.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, free entrance to several sites like the Ceylon Tea Factory and Botanical Garden, and a complimentary bottle of water.

However, entrance fees for the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage ($15), Royal Botanical Garden ($9), Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic ($6), and Kandyan Culture Dance ($6) aren’t included.

Plus, visitors will need to cover the cost of alcoholic drinks, lunch, gratuities, and any other unspecified expenses.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

Travelers have generally provided positive feedback about the Kandy to Pinnawala Day Tour, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and the flexibility in adjusting the itinerary to suit their preferences.

The tour has received an impressive 5/5 rating based on 5 reviews.

While some travelers expressed concerns about the treatment of elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the overall cultural and natural experiences on the tour were highly praised.

The tour caters to a diverse range of travelers, including couples, families, solo adventurers, and groups of friends.

With convenient pickup options and the opportunity to explore a variety of sites, the Kandy to Pinnawala Day Tour has proven to be a popular choice among visitors to the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many People Can Fit in a Typical Tuk-Tuk?

Typically, a tuk-tuk can accommodate 3 passengers comfortably, though some models may fit up to 4 adults. The capacity depends on the specific vehicle size and local regulations. Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transport in many Asian countries.

Is the Tuk-Tuk Comfortable for Tall or Large Travelers?

Tuk-tuks can be a tight fit for taller or larger travelers, as they’re designed for compact seating. However, many models offer reasonably comfortable legroom and accommodations, though extremely tall or broad individuals may find the space somewhat constrained.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

The tour can be customized to include additional stops, as the itinerary is flexible. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who’ll accommodate changes within the day’s duration and geographical range.

Are There Any Safety Concerns With Traveling by Tuk-Tuk?

Tuk-tuks can pose some safety risks, as they’re open-air vehicles with less protection than cars. However, reputable tuk-tuk tours use well-maintained vehicles and experienced drivers to mitigate these concerns. Proper safety precautions should be taken when traveling by tuk-tuk.

Can the Tour Be Combined With Other Activities in the Area?

The tour can likely be combined with other activities in the area, such as visiting ancient temples, hiking scenic trails, or exploring local markets. Travelers should inquire about customizing the itinerary to include additional experiences that interest them.