This Kandy day tour from Negombo has a great combination of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Start with an early morning drive, you stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage for elephants in their natural habitat. Continue further to Kandy, the place where you will visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most venerated sites by Buddhists around the world. Take a boat ride on Kandy Lake, and walk around busy local markets; drive to Royal Botanical Gardens for a leisurely walk. You can even complete the day with a visit to one of the nearby tea factories and learn something about the manufacturing process of Sri Lanka’s famous tea before heading back to Negombo in the late afternoon.
Kandy Day Tour from Negombo: A Journey into the Heart of Sri Lanka
The full-day tour takes you for a memorable day trip from the busy city of Negombo to the tranquil and culturally endowed city of Kandy. It befits your journey with scenic beauty, historical monuments, and cultural experiences all combined into one ideal excursion for tourists traveling for an experience in the core of Sri Lanka.
From Negombo, onwards, this will be a drive through a picturesque landscape that swiftly changes from an urban sprawl to lush countryside. The scenic route will take you along beautiful, serpentine roads fringed by emerald-green paddy fields, quaint little villages, and rolling hills blanketed with tea plantations, giving you a glimpse into the island’s diverse geography and traditional way of life.
First up is a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where the rescued elephants are housed. You will be able to watch the daily activities of these grand animals, including their feeding sessions and the jolly good time they have during the river bath. This experience will provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the conservation efforts and the life of elephants in Sri Lanka.
Further ahead is Kandy, a city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered the last royal capital of Sri Lanka. The city is also famous for its green hills, picturesque lake, and culture. Of course, the main attraction will be the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred sites of Buddhism. Inside it is a tooth relic of the Buddha, and with its elaborate architecture, its spiritual rituals, and scenic gardens combined, one deeply learns about the spiritual importance of this historical site.
Following a traditional Sri Lankan lunch, you will visit the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya. These botanical gardens are renowned for a wide array of tropical flora, counting among their treasures a dazzling display of orchids, tall palms, and other plants of the tropics. The well-tended gardens provide a peaceful retreat and opportunity to marvel at the island’s botanical secrets.
This is followed by an easygoing city tour around Kandy Lake and the busy city center, where one can’t help but take in local markets filled with handicrafts, gems, and souvenirs. The colonial-era buildings and busy streets add to the charm of the city and help to wrap up your cultural exposure in a delightfully pleasant way.
In the evening, you will drive back to Negombo, but the memories of the day’s events-from the natural beauty and wildlife at Pinnawala through the spiritual and cultural riches of Kandy-will remain with you. This excursion covers a whole day’s exposure to the very soul of Sri Lanka and thus forms an integral part of every Sri Lanka visitor’s tour program.
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Kandy Day Tour from Negombo
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Tour Itinerary
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Key Inclusions
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What to Bring
1. Early Morning Departure from Negombo
- Time: 6:00 AM
- Description: Begin your adventure with a comfortable and scenic drive from Negombo. 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 Negombo
- Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
- Description: Relax on the drive back to Negombo, reflecting on a day filled with cultural discoveries and scenic beauty.
Total 300km's
- Round-trip transportation from Negombo in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Professional English-speaking guide.
- 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.
- Ensure you bring a long dress or pants for the visit to Temples to cover your legs, as this is a religious requirement.
Most Used Day Tours from Negombo
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 Negombo 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. 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.