Colombo to Pinnawala and Kandy One Day Tour

Experience a perfect blend of culture, history, and wildlife with our Colombo to Pinnawala and Kandy One Day Tour. This full-day adventure takes you to the famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you’ll witness Sri Lanka’s majestic elephants up close. Continue to the sacred city of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll explore the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, an important religious and cultural landmark. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, history lover, or someone seeking a cultural experience, this tour offers a memorable journey through two of Sri Lanka’s top attractions.

Tour Duration:
Full-day tour (Approximately 10-12 hours)

Departure Time:
We depart from Colombo early in the morning at 6:00 AM to ensure you have ample time to enjoy the attractions without rush.

Departure & Return Location:

• Pickup: From your hotel in Colombo
• Drop-off: Back to your hotel in Colombo by late evening

Tour Highlights

1. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Begin your day with a visit to the world-renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, established to care for orphaned and injured elephants. This incredible sanctuary is home to over 80 elephants, and you’ll have the chance to observe their daily routines, including feeding and bathing in the river. Pinnawala offers a unique opportunity to learn about elephant conservation and get up close to these gentle giants.

• Elephant feeding: Watch the elephants being bottle-fed or hand-fed by the caretakers.
• River bathing: Witness the majestic sight of elephants bathing and playing in the nearby river.
• Learning experience: Learn about the conservation efforts that protect Sri Lanka’s elephants.

2. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy

After visiting Pinnawala, we proceed to the historic city of Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the holiest sites in Buddhism. The temple houses a sacred tooth of Lord Buddha, making it a pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world. Explore the beautiful temple complex, learn about its significance, and witness the rituals performed by devotees.

• Explore the temple complex: Marvel at the stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
• Learn about Buddhist culture: Understand the historical and religious importance of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
• Witness temple rituals: Observe traditional rituals performed by monks and devotees.

3. Kandy City Tour

Kandy is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. After visiting the temple, enjoy a short city tour where you can visit other key attractions like the Kandy Lake, Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, and the Royal Botanical Gardens (optional, depending on time). You’ll also have time to explore local markets, buy souvenirs, or simply enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere.

• Kandy Lake: Take a stroll around the scenic Kandy Lake, situated in the heart of the city.
• Cultural performances: Optional traditional Kandyan dance performances (available in the evening).
• Shopping: Visit local markets and shops for handicrafts, gemstones, and spices.

Tour Itinerary

• 06:00 AM – Depart from your hotel in Colombo
• 08:30 AM – Arrive at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage; enjoy the feeding and river bathing sessions
• 10:30 AM – Depart for Kandy
• 12:00 PM – Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
• 01:30 PM – Lunch at a local restaurant (optional, not included in the package)
• 02:30 PM – Kandy city tour and optional visit to additional attractions (Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, Kandy Lake, or Royal Botanical Gardens)
• 04:00 PM – Depart from Kandy, heading back to Colombo
• 06:30 PM – Arrive at your hotel in Colombo

Please note that timings may vary slightly based on traffic and other factors.

Inclusions

• Private air-conditioned transportation from Colombo to Pinnawala and Kandy, and return
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
• Bottled water throughout the journey
• All government taxes and service charges

Exclusions

• Meals (Lunch can be arranged at a local restaurant but is not included in the package)
• Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)
• Gratuities for guide and driver (optional but appreciated)

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the temple and city
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for sun protection
• Modest clothing for temple visits (shoulders and knees must be covered)
• Camera for capturing memorable moments
• Personal medications if required

Why Choose This Tour?

• Diverse Experience: This tour combines wildlife, cultural exploration, and city sightseeing, offering a comprehensive experience of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.
• Close Encounters with Elephants: Pinnawala is one of the best places to observe elephants up close in a natural environment.
• Cultural Immersion: Learn about Sri Lanka’s deep Buddhist traditions and visit one of the country’s most sacred sites.
• Comfort and Convenience: Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an expert guide, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Family Friendly: This tour is ideal for travelers of all ages, especially families looking for an engaging and educational day trip.

Important Information

• Temple Dress Code: Please dress modestly when visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Elephant Safety: Pinnawala is a conservation center, and visitors are encouraged to respect the animals and follow the guidelines provided by the caretakers.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour. 50% refund for cancellations made within 24-48 hours. No refund for cancellations less than 24 hours before departure.

Book Your Pinnawala and Kandy Tour Today!

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the best of Sri Lanka’s wildlife and culture in a single day. Join us for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with lasting memories.