From Colombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Orphanage Short Excursions

Discovering Kandy and Pinnawala from Colombo: A Practical, Authentic Day Trip

A full-day trip from Colombo to Kandy and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers a fantastic way to experience some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning. For around $60 per person, you get transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a chance to see the sacred Temple of the Tooth, watch elephants bathe in the river, and walk through lush botanical gardens.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines cultural and natural highlights so seamlessly. The visit to the Temple of the Tooth gives you a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s spiritual heart, while the Royal Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful escape into vibrant plant life. Plus, the spice garden walk provides a fragrant, tactile experience that many find memorable.

One thing to consider is that some reviews mention the entrance fees aren’t included in the listed price, so be ready for additional costs. Also, the guide’s level of commentary varies – some travelers appreciated Dhanuka’s enthusiasm, while others found the explanations somewhat lacking.

This tour suits travelers looking for a practical, value-packed day that hits key highlights, especially if you prefer a guided experience that covers a lot in one go. It’s perfect for those interested in Sri Lanka’s religious sites, elephants, and lush gardens but don’t want to spend hours figuring out logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Convenient logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off in Colombo.
• Cultural insights at the Temple of the Tooth and local craft demonstrations.
• Wildlife encounters at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage with elephants bathing and feeding.
• Beautiful gardens at Peradeniya, showcasing thousands of plant species.
• Additional expenses like entrance fees and lunch are separate from the tour price.
• Variable guide experience – some travelers report limited commentary, others praise guide enthusiasm.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect on This Day Trip

When you sign up for the From Colombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Orphanage Short Excursions, you’re in for a well-rounded taste of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural treasures. You’ll start with hotel pickup early in the morning, making the journey to Kandy in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. This part of the trip is a blessing—relaxing and cool, especially if you’re coming from the humid capital.

Visiting the Temple of the Tooth

As you arrive in Kandy, the highlight is undoubtedly the Temple of the Tooth. This revered site houses what is believed to be a sacred relic of Buddha’s tooth, and it’s a symbol of power for the Sri Lankan monarchy for centuries. The temple’s architecture is impressively ornate, with gold figurines and intricate woodwork—definitely a place to marvel at both for its spiritual importance and craftsmanship.

The temple visit can be a moving experience, but it’s also a busy, active site—so expect plenty of visitors and some noise. As you walk around, you’ll observe locals and pilgrims alike, often dressed in their best, paying homage. Be sure to respect local customs—cover shoulders and knees, and keep noise to a respectful level.

Exploring Kandy’s Crafts and Markets

After the temple, some tours include a stroll through artisan workshops where local crafts like gems, wood carving, and batik are demonstrated. This is a chance to witness traditional skills in action and perhaps pick up a handcrafted souvenir. Several reviews mention craft demonstrations as a highlight, offering genuine insight into Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage.

This part of the trip offers a more relaxed pace, allowing you to absorb the local craft scene and enjoy browsing for souvenirs. It’s also a good chance to see some of the authentic artisan work that’s been handed down through generations.

Lunch and Botanical Gardens

Next comes a lunch break at a local restaurant—your cost, so you can choose what suits your appetite and budget. Many travelers enjoy the local flavors, and some appreciate the opportunity to try Sri Lankan cuisine in a casual setting.

Following lunch, you’ll visit the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, a lush, expansive space covering 147 acres. Here, you’ll walk among over 4,000 plant species, including famous orchids, spices, and medicinal herbs. The gardens are especially notable for their towering cannonball trees, giant fig trees, and the towering Burma bamboo.

Many reviewers comment on how peaceful and photogenic the gardens are, making them a highlight of the day. We loved the chance to breathe in fresh air and see such a diverse collection of plants—perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a break from the bustling city.

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Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

The final major stop is Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where the stars are the elephants. Watching them bathe in the river and feedings is a quintessential Sri Lankan experience. The elephants are adorable and seem well cared for, but some reviews raise questions about the treatment of elephants in captivity, particularly regarding chains and handling.

You may also have the chance to feed the elephants—a short, 5-minute activity that many find delightful, though some note it can feel somewhat commercialized. Be aware that entrance fees for the orphanage (and the temple) are not included in the tour price, so expect to pay those on-site.

Final thoughts on the tour logistics

The journey home is usually straightforward, with the driver dropping you back at your hotel in Colombo. The total day typically lasts around 10-12 hours, so be prepared for a full but rewarding day.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re eager to see Kandy’s spiritual sites, elephants in their natural habitat, and beautiful gardens, this tour offers great value and a chance to tick multiple boxes in one day. The mix of cultural and natural sights makes it ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time.

However, if you prefer a more in-depth experience or detailed guide commentary, be aware that some reviews mention limited explanations and variable guide enthusiasm. Also, if you’re sensitive to walking or stairs, the temple visit might require some effort, and the guide’s commentary might leave a bit to be desired.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is a practical, budget-friendly way to experience some of Sri Lanka’s most cherished sights without the stress of planning. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a guided day with transport included, allowing them to relax and focus on enjoying the scenery and sites.

While some travelers have noted that entrance fees and additional costs are not included, most agree that the overall value for money is good considering the variety of experiences covered. The spice garden walk, botanical gardens, and elephant bathing are genuine highlights, making this a well-rounded day trip.

If you’re interested in Sri Lankan culture, wildlife, and garden beauty, and don’t mind a busy schedule with some optional extra costs, this tour will serve you well. It offers a balanced mix of highlights, authentic moments, and practical logistics for a memorable day out of Colombo.

FAQ

Are transportation and hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Colombo, making it very convenient for travelers staying in the city.

How much are the entrance fees?
Entry tickets for the Temple of the Tooth, Elephant Orphanage, and other sites are not included in the tour price. You will need to pay these on-site.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch at a local restaurant is at your own expense. You can choose from a variety of Sri Lankan dishes depending on your preference.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and dress modestly for religious sites—cover shoulders and knees.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Reviews show mixed experiences. Some travelers praise guides like Dhanuka for enthusiasm and helpfulness, while others found the commentary limited or the guide less communicative.

How long does the tour last?
Expect a full day, roughly 10-12 hours, including travel time, site visits, and breaks.

Can this tour accommodate wheelchair users or those with back problems?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers with back issues should consider the full-day nature of the trip.

In all, this tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into Sri Lanka’s sacred and natural beauty, making it a solid choice for those who want to see the highlights with guided ease. Just be prepared for some additional costs and variable guide commentary—and you’ll find yourself with a memorable day exploring this fascinating country.

You can check availability for your dates here: