From Colombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Full-Day Trip

From Colombo: Kandy and Pinnawala Full-Day Trip
Location: Mahanuvara, Sri Lanka
Country: Sri Lanka
Rating: 4.6 (115 reviews)
Price: $63 per person
Supplier: Apple Vacations Sri Lanka
Similar Experiences: [See links above]

Quick Overview & What We Love About This Tour

This full-day excursion from Colombo takes you into the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural riches. You’ll visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, walk through Kandy’s famous Temple of the Tooth, explore lush Royal Botanical Gardens, and enjoy stunning panoramic views from various viewpoints. It’s a well-rounded day blending wildlife, history, and scenic beauty for a reasonable price, with many reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences.

Two things stand out: First, the elephant encounter at Pinnawala—watching these gentle giants bathe in the river is a highlight that’s hard to forget. Second, the educational aspect — from learning about Sri Lanka’s gems to the cultural significance of the Tooth Relic — makes this tour more enriching than just ticking off sights.

A possible downside? The long hours and tight schedule mean you’ll need comfortable shoes and a bit of patience, especially if traffic slows down. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, active day and want a taste of Sri Lanka’s highlights rather than a leisurely, unhurried experience.

If you love cultural landmarks, wildlife encounters, and scenic drives, this tour will suit you well. It offers good value by combining several must-see sites with authentic local experiences, all in one day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers elephants, temples, gardens, and scenic viewpoints.
• Authentic experiences: Highlights like elephant bathing and gem shopping add genuine flavor.
• Guided insight: Knowledgeable guides provide rich cultural and historical context.
• Value for money: At $63, it includes transportation, a guide, and multiple stops.
• Time management: It’s a long day—be prepared for a 12-hour adventure.
• Flexibility: Optional bugy rides and food stops enhance the experience, with some extra charges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early with Convenience

The tour begins with hotel pickup around 6:00 am in Colombo, which means you’ll need to rise early, but it pays off with a full day ahead. The ride out to the cultural triangle takes about two hours, and the air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive surprisingly comfortable. The early start also means you avoid the worst of the traffic and get a head start on the day’s activities.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: A Live Wildlife Show

The first major stop is Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Here, the scene is lively and endearing—elephants of all sizes gather by the river for their daily bath. Watching these majestic creatures splash, play, and interact in the water is a genuine highlight. Reviewers often mention how close you can get without disturbing them, making it a memorable photo opportunity.

One reviewer shared, “The elephants topped it all up. It was a good experience.” Another noted, “It’s better to see elephants in the wild, but this is a very authentic place where you can learn about their care.” Expect around 45 minutes here, enough to enjoy the spectacle and snap a few photos.

Scenic Stop at Kadugannawa Viewpoint

Next, the tour makes a quick stop at the Kadugannawa Viewpoint. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of rolling hills and the lush landscape that defines Sri Lanka’s interior. It’s a serene spot for a few minutes of reflection and a great place for photos.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kadugannawa Tunnel: A Touch of History

Driving through the iconic Kadugannawa Tunnel offers a moment to appreciate Sri Lanka’s engineering history. The tunnel has been part of the local landscape for many years and provides a tangible link to the country’s colonial past. It’s a short but interesting stop, giving you a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind the railway.

Botanical Gardens: Nature’s Tranquil Escape

After the tunnel, you arrive at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kandy. Many reviews rave about the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning variety of plants and flowers, especially orchids and spices. You can stroll leisurely or hop on a buggy for an extra charge, which many find worth the small added expense for a more relaxed experience.

Travelers frequently mention how the gardens are perfect for a calming break amidst the busy day. One review states, “The botanical garden was gorgeous and sprawling; I’m not sure I saw everything.” It’s a place that invites slow wandering amid tropical flora, ideal for nature lovers and photography buffs alike.

The Sacred Tooth Temple and Kandy Views

The next stop is Kandy’s famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This UNESCO-listed site is Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist landmark, housing a relic believed to be a tooth of Buddha. Shoes and slippers are removed before entering, so wear comfortable footwear and lightweight clothing. The guide will explain the significance and history, transforming the visit into an educational experience.

Following the temple, you’ll visit the Kandy Viewpoint for stunning vistas of the city and surrounding hills. It’s a quick stop, but you’ll want your camera ready for sweeping panoramic shots.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant & Gem Shopping

Post-visit, the tour includes a lunch break at a local eatery, offering regional dishes that tend to please most palates. Many reviews mention the delicious food, with options that suit various tastes.

After lunch, a visit to the Gem Museum is on the schedule. Sri Lanka is famous for its high-quality gems, and here you can learn about their extraction and value. It’s also an opportunity to shop for authentic souvenirs—many reviewers praise the quality and variety of gems available.

Tour of a Tea Factory: Tasting and Learning

The day concludes with a visit to Geragama Tea Factory, where you can see how Sri Lanka’s famous tea is made. Tour guides often explain the production process, and tasting freshly brewed tea is a highlight. Some travelers find the factory tour to be very informative, and it’s a fitting end to a day that’s both educational and sensory-rich.

Return to Colombo

After the tea factory, the return journey begins, with drop-off times estimated between 7:30 pm and 8:30 pm. Expect a long day, but one filled with diverse sights and experiences.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• The price of $63 includes transportation, a driver, and water bottles, but entry fees to the Botanical Gardens and other extras are additional.
• It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and carry insect repellent, especially since you’ll be walking at religious sites and gardens.
• The tour is suitable for travelers who enjoy a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind a packed schedule. Reviewers note that traffic can cause delays, so punctuality is key.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the walking involved and religious site restrictions.
• The guide’s knowledge gets high praise, with many reviewers especially mentioning their driver/guide as friendly, humorous, and informative.

Authenticity and Value: What Makes This Tour Special?

This trip offers a chance to see Sri Lanka’s highlights in one day—from the wildlife to cultural landmarks—without feeling rushed. The elephants at Pinnawala are a genuine experience, not just a tourist trap, especially if you choose to participate in feeding or bathing them. The Temple of the Tooth provides insight into Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions, which are central to the island’s identity.

Many reviews highlight the guides’ passion and knowledge, making the experience more meaningful. For example, reviewers like Elmira appreciated the additional cultural insights provided by their guide, which helped them truly grasp the essence of Sri Lanka, beyond just the sights.

The value for money is notable, especially considering the included transportation, guide, and multiple stops. While some costs (e.g., entrance fees, optional buggy rides, shopping) are extra, the core experience offers a rundown of the region’s highlights.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded introduction to Kandy and Pinnawala without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets. It suits those eager to learn about Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and enjoy close encounters with wildlife. It’s perfect for travelers comfortable with a long day, some walking, and a busy schedule.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local experiences, scenic vistas, and cultural insights, you’ll love the combination of sights packed into this 12-hour trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Colombo. The operator will reconfirm your pickup time in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended; light, modest clothing suitable for religious sites and outdoor activities.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included in the price but is available at a local restaurant during the trip. Many reviews praise the regional dishes served.

What are the additional costs I should expect?
Entry fees for the Botanical Gardens (~LKR 3,540) and Gem Museum are extra, as are optional activities like buggy rides.

Can I choose to skip certain stops?
Yes, some reviews mention customizing the route; guide flexibility depends on the group and schedule.

How long is the drive?
The drive from Colombo to Kandy takes about two hours, with the return trip scheduled for late evening.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews indicate families enjoyed the trip, especially children who loved the elephants, but remember it’s a long day.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to walking and religious site restrictions.

What if it rains?
In case of heavy rain, some outdoor activities (like the botanical gardens) might be skipped or substituted with indoor options.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

In summary, this Kandy and Pinnawala full-day trip offers a delightful mix of wildlife, culture, and scenic views, all at a budget-friendly price. With knowledgeable guides and authentic stops, it’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Sri Lanka’s essence—ideal for curious travelers ready for a full, engaging day.

You can check availability for your dates here: