Kandy Day Tour from Colombo
Kandy Day Tour from Colombo: A Journey into the Heart of Sri Lanka
Embark on an unforgettable day trip from the bustling metropolis of Colombo to the serene and culturally rich city of Kandy. This journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal excursion for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Starting from Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, you will travel through a picturesque landscape that transitions from urban sprawl to lush countryside. The route takes you through scenic roads flanked by verdant paddy fields, charming villages, and rolling hills covered with tea plantations, giving you a glimpse of the island’s diverse geography and traditional lifestyle.
Your first stop is at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary for rescued elephants. Here, you can witness the daily routines of these majestic creatures, including feeding sessions and their playful antics during the river bath. This experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts and the life of elephants in Sri Lanka.
Continuing your journey, you will reach Kandy, a city that is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the last royal capital of Sri Lanka. Kandy is renowned for its lush green hills, serene lake, and rich cultural heritage. The highlight of your visit is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites. The temple houses a tooth relic of the Buddha, and its intricate architecture, sacred rituals, and serene atmosphere provide a deep insight into the spiritual significance of this historic site.
After a traditional Sri Lankan lunch, you will explore the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. These gardens are famed for their extensive collection of tropical flora, including a stunning array of orchids, towering palms, and exotic plants. The beautifully manicured gardens offer a tranquil escape and a chance to appreciate the island’s botanical diversity.
A leisurely tour around Kandy Lake and the vibrant city center follows, where you can explore local markets brimming with crafts, gems, and souvenirs. The colonial-era buildings and bustling streets add to the city’s charm, providing a perfect end to your cultural exploration.
As you return to Colombo in the evening, you’ll carry with you the memories of a day filled with diverse experiences, from the natural beauty and wildlife at Pinnawala to the spiritual and cultural richness of Kandy. This day trip offers a comprehensive glimpse into the soul of Sri Lanka, making it a must-do excursion for anyone visiting the island.
Request Quote
Kandy Day Tour from Colombo
1. Early Morning Departure from Colombo
- Time: 6:00 AM
- Description: Begin your adventure with a comfortable and scenic drive from Colombo. Watch as the bustling city gives way to serene countryside landscapes.
2. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
- Time: 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
- Highlights: Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to rescued and rehabilitated elephants. Observe these gentle giants during their morning bath in the river and enjoy feeding sessions.
3. Journey to Kandy
- Time: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
- Description: Continue your journey to Kandy, passing through picturesque villages and rolling hills covered with tea plantations.
4. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
- Highlights: Explore the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world. Learn about its history and significance, and witness the spiritual rituals conducted by monks.
5. Lunch at a Local Restaurant
- Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
- Description: Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at a local restaurant. Savor a variety of local dishes, rich in spices and flavors.
6. Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens
- Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
- Highlights: Wander through the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, renowned for their extensive collection of orchids, towering palm trees, and beautifully landscaped lawns.
7. Kandy Lake and City Tour
- Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
- Highlights: Take a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake, visit the bustling Kandy Market, and explore the colonial architecture of the city. Discover local crafts, gems, and souvenirs.
8. Return to Colombo
- Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
- Description: Relax on the drive back to Colombo, reflecting on a day filled with cultural discoveries and scenic beauty.
- Round-trip transportation from Colombo in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Entrance fees to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens.
- Professional English-speaking guide.
- Traditional Sri Lankan lunch at a local restaurant.
- Bottled water and light refreshments.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
- Camera to capture the beautiful scenery and moments.
- A light jacket or shawl for the cooler morning and evening temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Colombo to Kandy Day Trip
For the day trip, it’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing suitable for a full day of activities. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended due to the tropical climate. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as there will be a fair amount of walking, especially at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. When visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, please ensure your attire is modest (shoulders and knees covered) to respect local customs and religious practices.
Yes, the trip is suitable for travelers of all ages. The itinerary includes a mix of activities that can be enjoyed by children, such as visiting the elephants at Pinnawala, and leisurely activities like strolling through the botanical gardens that are suitable for elderly travelers. However, some locations may require a bit of walking, so it’s important to consider the mobility of elderly travelers. If needed, the itinerary can often be adjusted to accommodate specific needs.
The cost of the trip typically includes round-trip transportation from Colombo in an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance fees to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. Additionally, a professional English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the trip. A traditional Sri Lankan lunch, bottled water, and light refreshments are also included. Always confirm the inclusions with your tour operator as they can vary.
Yes, most tour operators can accommodate dietary restrictions for lunch. Sri Lankan cuisine offers a variety of dishes that can cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs. It’s important to inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so they can make the necessary arrangements.
The best time to take the Colombo to Kandy day trip is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During this period, you can expect pleasant weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, Kandy can be visited year-round, and each season offers its own unique charm. The wet season (May to September) will have more frequent rain showers, but the landscape will be lush and vibrant.
Why Ceylon Taxi
1. Experienced and Knowledgeable Guides
Ceylon Taxi provides experienced and knowledgeable guides who are well-versed in the history, culture, and attractions of Sri Lanka. These guides offer insightful commentary and stories that enrich your tour experience. Whether you’re exploring the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic or wandering through the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, the guides ensure you gain a deep understanding and appreciation of each site.
2. Comfortable and Reliable Transportation
Travel in comfort and style with Ceylon Taxi’s fleet of modern, air-conditioned vehicles. The company prides itself on punctuality and safety, ensuring that your journey from Colombo to Kandy and back is smooth and hassle-free. The vehicles are equipped with amenities such as comfortable seating, bottled water, and Wi-Fi, making your travel experience enjoyable and relaxing.
3. Customized Itineraries
Ceylon Taxi offers flexible and customized itineraries tailored to your preferences and interests. Whether you want to spend more time at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, explore additional sites in Kandy, or take a scenic detour, Ceylon Taxi accommodates your requests. This personalized approach ensures that your day tour is unique and caters specifically to your desires.
4. Exceptional Customer Service
Ceylon Taxi is renowned for its exceptional customer service. From the moment you book your tour to the end of your journey, their team is dedicated to providing a seamless and enjoyable experience. They offer prompt responses to inquiries, clear communication, and assistance with any special requirements. Their commitment to customer satisfaction makes your day trip stress-free and memorable.
