Set out on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s vibrant cultural landscape with the Private Kandy Pinnawala Day Tour from Hikkaduwa. This comprehensive 10-hour adventure promises an immersive experience, allowing you to witness the daily rituals of elephants at the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Explore the lush greenery of the Royal Botanic Gardens, explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, and savor the breathtaking vistas from Kandy View Point. But the day’s discoveries don’t end there, as you’ll also visit the Geragama Tea Factory to indulge in the unique flavors of Sri Lankan tea. Prepare to be enchanted by the country’s rich heritage and natural wonders.
Key Points
- This private day tour from Hikkaduwa includes visits to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Royal Botanic Gardens, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy Viewpoint, and Geragama Tea Factory.
- The tour duration is 10 hours, and the price per person is LKR 2,776 with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
- Highlights of the tour include observing elephants, exploring the UNESCO-listed sites, and learning about Sri Lanka’s tea and spice heritage.
- Entrance fees for the Tooth Temple and Botanical Garden are included, while other activities may incur additional costs.
- The tour includes pickup from Hikkaduwa, with guests waiting in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before departure.
Tour Overview
The Private Kandy Pinnawala Day Tour from Hikkaduwa provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the cultural and natural wonders of the region.
Priced at LKR 2,776 per person, this 10-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pickup is available from Hikkaduwa, with guests waiting in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
The itinerary highlights include visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kandy, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the Kandy Viewpoint, along with a stop at the Geragama Tea Factory.
Entrance fees for the Tooth Temple and Botanical Garden are included, while other activities may incur additional costs.
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Itinerary Highlights
Visitors will explore the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where they can observe the elephants, have breakfast, and enjoy free time to walk around the area (45 minutes), though this comes at an additional fee.
Next, they’ll venture to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kandy, spending free time strolling through the lush greenery for approximately 45 minutes, also subject to an extra charge.
A visit to the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will follow, allowing guests to spend an hour sightseeing and exploring this revered site, with an admission fee required.
The tour also includes:
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A photo stop at the Kandy View Point (10 minutes) for additional fees.
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A visit to the Geragama Tea Factory for shopping (45 minutes).
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Lunch at a local restaurant featuring diverse Sri Lankan cuisine.
Cultural and Scenic Experiences
This private Kandy Pinnawala day tour offers a rich tapestry of cultural and scenic experiences. Guests will explore the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing the sacred relic of Buddha, and stroll around the serene Kandy Lake, surrounded by lush greenery. They’ll also have the opportunity to witness traditional wood carving craftsmanship and gain insights into Sri Lanka’s gemstone heritage at a museum. The tour also features a visit to a local restaurant, where visitors can indulge in diverse culinary offerings, giving them a deeper appreciation for Sri Lankan cuisine.
Cultural Experiences | Scenic Experiences | Immersive Encounters |
---|---|---|
Explore the Temple of the Tooth | Stroll around Kandy Lake | Witness wood carving craftsmanship |
Discover Sri Lankan gemstone heritage | Enjoy the lush greenery | Indulge in diverse Sri Lankan cuisine |
Gain insights into traditional arts | Admire the natural beauty | Explore the island’s vibrant heritage |
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Along With the cultural and scenic highlights, the private Kandy Pinnawala day tour also includes a visit to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where one can witness the remarkable rehabilitation efforts for these gentle giants.
At the orphanage, visitors can:
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Observe the elephants during their daily bathing ritual, as they splash and play in the river.
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Learn about the orphanage’s mission to care for abandoned, injured, or orphaned elephants and prepare them for potential release into the wild.
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Browse the on-site souvenir shop, which offers a range of handcrafted items, proceeds from which help support the orphanage’s operations.
This unique opportunity to interact with these majestic creatures is sure to be a highlight of the Kandy Pinnawala tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kandy
The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kandy, a renowned haven for nature enthusiasts, showcase Sri Lanka’s diverse botanical wonders across its sprawling 147-acre expanse. Established in 1821, the gardens boast an impressive collection of over 4,000 plant species, including rare and endemic flora.
Visitors can stroll along the winding paths, admiring the vibrant floral displays, manicured lawns, and towering trees that provide welcome shade. The enchanting Kandy Lake serves as a picturesque backdrop, complementing the serene ambiance.
Guests can explore the impressive Orchid House, filled with an array of captivating orchid varieties, or visit the Spice Garden to learn about Sri Lanka’s rich spice heritage.
The Royal Botanic Gardens offer a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city, inviting visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Situated within Kandy’s cultural heart, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic stands as a revered UNESCO World Heritage site that houses what’s believed to be the left upper canine tooth of the Buddha.
Visitors can explore the ornate temple complex, which features intricate carvings, paintings, and architectural marvels. The temple’s significance lies in its role as a symbol of Sri Lankan national and Buddhist identity.
Some key highlights of the visit include:
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Observing the daily rituals and ceremonies performed by the temple’s custodians.
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Marveling at the stunning Dalada Maligawa, the temple’s main shrine.
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Learning about the temple’s rich history and legends surrounding the sacred tooth relic.
Kandy View Point
Atop the surrounding hills, the Kandy View Point offers visitors a panoramic perspective of the historic city of Kandy, its verdant landscapes, and the majestic Knuckles Mountain Range in the distance.
This scenic lookout point, accessible during the tour, provides a chance to capture breathtaking photographs and appreciate the natural beauty of the region. Guests can spend about 10 minutes admiring the sweeping vistas and taking in the serene atmosphere before continuing the journey.
While an additional fee may be required, the Kandy View Point is a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to gain a bird’s-eye view of the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.
Geragama Tea Factory
After exploring the scenic Kandy View Point, the tour continues with a visit to the renowned Geragama Tea Factory, where visitors can witness the intricate process of tea production and indulge in the opportunity to purchase high-quality Sri Lankan tea.
The factory tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to learn about the history, cultivation, and processing of Ceylon tea.
Highlights of the visit include:
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Observing the skilled tea pluckers hand-picking the freshest leaves.
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Exploring the factory’s machinery and understanding the various stages of tea production.
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Browsing the factory’s store to purchase a variety of premium tea blends, perfect for bringing home as souvenirs.
The Geragama Tea Factory visit offers a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s celebrated tea heritage and the opportunity to savor the distinct flavors that have made the island’s tea renowned worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though the tour cost doesn’t include these items. The tour organizer provides bottled water, while other meals and snacks are the responsibility of the participant.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration can be extended upon request, subject to availability and additional fees. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about extending the tour to accommodate their needs and interests.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
The tour operator may offer discounts for group bookings, but the specific details are not provided. Customers should inquire about group rates when making their reservation to determine if any discounts are available.
Can I Request a Different Pickup or Drop-Off Location?
Yes, you can request a different pickup or drop-off location. The tour provider may accommodate such requests, but it’s subject to availability and could incur an additional fee. It’s best to inquire about this when making your booking.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities is limited. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with recent surgeries, or people with certain health conditions. Accessibility may vary, so travelers should discuss any special needs with the tour provider.
Recap
This private Kandy Pinnawala day tour from Hikkaduwa offers a captivating blend of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences.
Visitors can observe elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage, explore the serene Royal Botanic Gardens, marvel at the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and enjoy breathtaking views from Kandy View Point.
The tour culminates with a visit to the Geragama Tea Factory, where guests can savor the unique flavors of Sri Lankan tea.
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