Full-day tours in Kandy cut through the tourist confusion and deliver the city’s greatest hits efficiently. The standout excursions pack major sights like Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Temple of the Tooth into well-organized itineraries. I’m especially fond of tours that combine the Royal Botanical Gardens with the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – they offer excellent value and smart timing to avoid crowds.
The best tours include an experienced English-speaking guide (crucial for understanding the rich Buddhist heritage) and handle all entrance fees and transportation, typically running $13-120 per person. For culture, I particularly recommend tours featuring traditional dance shows and visits to working tea factories.
Let’s explore the top full-day tours that make the most of your time in Kandy.
Key Points
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Temple of the Tooth are must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a full-day Kandy tour.
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Royal Botanical Gardens offer unique insights into Sri Lankan nature and conservation efforts.
- Full-day tours include private transportation, English-speaking guides, and entrance fees for a hassle-free experience.
- Tour prices range from $13 to $120 per person, with discounts and flexible itinerary options available.
- Kandy tours provide opportunities for cultural experiences, such as tea factory visits and traditional dance performances.
Private Full Day Tour Sigiriya and Dambulla From Kandy
Enjoy the ancient wonders of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle on this private full-day tour from Kandy.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, the tour offers a seamless experience with hotel pickup, an English-speaking chauffeur guide, and private air-conditioned transportation.
Visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Golden Temple of Dambulla, and the Sri Muthumariamman Temple, enjoying included entrance fees.
With a moderate fitness level required, this comprehensive tour provides a hassle-free way to explore these must-see destinations.
Confirm pickup details with the local provider in advance and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour Sigiriya and Dambulla From Kandy Review
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From Colombo : Kandy Privet Full Day Tour With Pinnawala
Set out on a captivating private full-day tour that showcases the cultural and natural wonders of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill capital.
Starting from Colombo, this tour provides a comprehensive experience, including a visit to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the serene Kandy Lake.
Explore the iconic Temple of the Tooth, a sacred Buddhist site, and learn about the vibrant Royal Botanic Gardens.
For an optional extra fee, enjoy a traditional dance performance that celebrates Sri Lanka’s rich artistic heritage.
With hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and flexibility to accommodate client preferences, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Kandy’s top attractions.
Read our full review: From Colombo : Kandy Privet Full Day Tour With Pinnawala Review
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Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour Full Day
This Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour offers a full-day experience that allows visitors to explore the vibrant city of Kandy from the unique vantage point of a traditional three-wheeled tuk tuk.
Operated by Lanka Safe Tours, the tour includes private transportation, a driver, and bottled water.
With 6 positive reviews and a 5-star rating, the tour is highly regarded for its flexible and knowledgeable guides, who tailor the experience to meet travelers’ preferences.
Highlights include assistance with train ticket exchange and engaging cultural experiences, such as dance shows.
The tour starts at 8 AM with pickup from any location in Kandy or the railway station, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour Full Day Review
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Kandy Full Day Tour From Negombo (Private Day Tour)
Visitors to Kandy seeking a comprehensive full-day tour can consider the Kandy Full Day Tour from Negombo. This private tour offers a great value at $52.65 per person, saving up to 16% on the regular price.
The 14-hour itinerary includes key attractions like the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Tea Factory, Royal Botanical Garden, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and more. Transportation is provided in a private air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
While entrance fees for select sites are covered, guests should budget around Rs40,000 for additional fees. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a hassle-free way to explore Kandy’s cultural highlights.
Read our full review: Kandy Full Day Tour From Negombo (Private Day Tour) Review
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Private Full Day Tour to Nuwara Eliya From Kandy
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of the picturesque town of Nuwara Eliya from Kandy, the Private Full Day Tour provides an excellent opportunity.
Priced at $80 per group (up to 3), the tour includes private transportation, a visit to a tea factory, and entrance to Gregory Park.
The tour operates daily from 7 AM to 6 PM, with pickup from any hotel or location in Kandy.
Travelers can expect a scenic journey, knowledgeable tea production insights, and a delightful lunch in Nuwara Eliya.
The tour’s 5.0-star rating from 4 reviews highlights its diverse activities, stunning landscapes, and the excellent service provided by the driver, Harsha.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour to Nuwara Eliya From Kandy Review
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Kandy Full Day Tour From Colombo (Private Day Tour)
Setting out on a private day tour from Colombo, travelers can enjoy the cultural richness and natural beauty of Kandy. Priced at $52.94 per person, this 14-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience, including visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, tea factory, and the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can enjoy the flexibility to adjust their plans. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and entrance fees to key attractions.
Suitable clothing and proper etiquette are recommended when visiting religious sites. This full-day tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore Kandy’s captivating sights and uncover the region’s unique cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Kandy Full Day Tour From Colombo (Private Day Tour) Review
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Pinnawala & Tea Factory & Kandy Full Day Tour From Negombo
Travelers departing from Negombo can enjoy a comprehensive full-day tour that showcases the cultural and natural wonders of Kandy.
The tour includes visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a tea factory and estate, the Royal Botanical Garden, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and a cultural dance show.
The package includes private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
Guests can explore the diverse attractions at their own pace, learn about local traditions, and enjoy the beauty of the region.
The tour offers a convenient and cost-effective way to experience the highlights of Kandy in a single day.
Read our full review: Pinnawala & Tea Factory & Kandy Full Day Tour From Negombo Review
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Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour From Bentota and Kalutara
This full-day tour from Bentota and Kalutara offers travelers a chance to enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of Kandy and Pinnawala.
The tour includes visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and a spice garden.
Travelers will also have the opportunity to explore Kandy’s city center, with its lake, historical churches, and shopping opportunities.
The tour is priced from $120 per person, with pickup and drop-off from hotels on the west coast, and includes entrance fees and guided walking tours.
Participants should wear suitable attire for temple visits.
Read our full review: Kandy Pinnawala Full Day Tour From Bentota and Kalutara Review
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From Colombo/Negombo: Full Day Tour to Kandy & Pinnawala
Departing from Colombo or Negombo, this full-day tour offers visitors a chance to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Kandy and Pinnawala.
Priced from $80 per person, the 10-hour excursion includes visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Witness elephant feeding and bathing sessions, stroll through the diverse flora of the gardens, and experience the UNESCO-listed Buddhist site.
Private transportation, entrance fees, and lunch are included, while pickups and drop-offs are available at multiple locations.
Travelers should note the dress code and refrain from using flash photography when visiting sacred sites.
Read our full review: From Colombo/Negombo: Full Day Tour to Kandy & Pinnawala Review
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Kandy City: Full Day Tour (Private Tour With Lunch)
Explore Kandy’s cultural and natural treasures on this comprehensive full-day private tour, priced from an affordable $13 per person.
Highlights include the stunning Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, the iconic Bahirawakanda Temple, and tea factory experiences.
Learn about Ceylon tea production and enjoy cultural performances like the Kandy Cultural Dance Show.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, a live English-speaking guide, and flexible customization, this tour offers an immersive look at Kandy’s top attractions.
Easily explore the city’s historic sites, shop for unique souvenirs, and savor the local flavors – all within a single convenient package.
Read our full review: Kandy City: Full Day Tour (Private Tour With Lunch) Review
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Sum Up
Kandy offers a range of full-day tours that let visitors explore the city’s key attractions. These tours take travellers to sites like Sigiriya, Dambulla, Pinnawala, and tea factories. With options departing from various locations, including Colombo and Negombo, travellers can choose the tour that best suits their needs and interests. The tours provide a convenient and comprehensive way to discover the highlights of Kandy in a single day.