Private drivers in Kandy deliver no-nonsense tours that make exploring central Sri Lanka hassle-free. These drivers know their stuff – expertly navigating between the region’s must-see UNESCO sites like Dambulla and Sigiriya. I’m especially impressed by the flexible day tours around Kandy, where you can mix cultural stops at the elegant Botanical Gardens with visits to working tea plantations.
My favorite options combine practical transportation with genuine cultural experiences – like the cooking class add-ons that let you taste real Sri Lankan home cooking. The best part? These reliable drivers adjust the pace to your interests, and most offer stress-free cancellation policies.
Check out our handpicked list of Kandy’s most trusted private drivers below.
Key Points
- Private day tours from Colombo Harbor offer seamless experiences with knowledgeable guides, including visits to cultural landmarks and opportunities for immersion in Sri Lankan cuisine.
- The Kandy Pinnawala Day Tour provides a comprehensive guided experience, including visits to the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake, and Royal Botanic Gardens, with traditional activities and cuisine.
- The Dambulla and Sigiriya Tours offer high-quality private transportation, knowledgeable English-speaking drivers, and customizable itineraries, with a 98% recommendation rate from 191 reviews.
- The Private Kandy Authentic Cooking Class has received a 5.0 rating with 100% recommendation, providing an immersive culinary experience in a traditional setting.
- For those with mobility considerations, the Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour is wheelchair accessible to Sigiriya, though the rock climb may not be accessible.
Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour From Kandy With Lunch
The Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour from Kandy with Lunch offers travelers an opportunity to explore two of Sri Lanka’s most iconic cultural attractions. Priced at $47.20 per person, the tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable local guide, and an authentic Sri Lankan lunch.
Highlights include the Dambulla Cave Temple and the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. While the tour is wheelchair accessible to Sigiriya, the rock climb itself is not.
Travelers have praised the tour’s organization and the quality of the local cuisine, but some have reported unexpected costs and communication issues. The experience varies based on the guide’s expertise and travelers’ expectations.
Read our full review: Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour From Kandy With Lunch Review
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You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kandy.
From Bentota or Beruwela: Private Day Tour to Kandy
Travelers seeking a comprehensive experience can embark on a private day tour from Bentota or Beruwela to the historic city of Kandy. Priced from $90 per person, this 14-hour excursion allows visitors to customize their itinerary.
Highlights include the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, a tea plantation, and the iconic Kandy Temple. En route, they’ll enjoy stops to see elephants and a spice garden.
The tour includes door-to-door service, air-conditioned transportation, and an English-speaking guide. Visitors can explore the Kandy Market Square and Upper Square Drive at their own pace.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private tour offers flexibility and convenience for a memorable day in Kandy.
Read our full review: From Bentota or Beruwela: Private Day Tour to Kandy Review
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Private Kandy Authentic Cooking Class
Foodies visiting Kandy can enjoy the vibrant culinary culture through a private authentic cooking class. Rated 5.0 based on 46 reviews, this experience offers a 100% recommendation from travelers.
After a warm welcome with a choice of Sri Lankan beverages, you will learn to prepare an 8-dish menu, including rice, salads, curries, vegetables, and proteins. The class culminates in a delectable homemade dessert.
Priced from £19.95 per person, the experience includes private transportation, all fees, and taxes. With its Badge of Excellence, this private cooking class provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover the rich flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine in an intimate setting.
Read our full review: Private Kandy Authentic Cooking Class Review
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6-Day Sri Lanka Budget Tour (Private Tour)
This 6-day Sri Lanka Budget Tour offers travelers an immersive private experience to explore the island’s cultural and natural wonders.
Priced from $324.74 per person, it includes a meet-and-greet at the airport, private transportation, and an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, exploring UNESCO sites like the Temple of the Tooth Relic and Galle Fort, and going on a safari in Yala National Park.
With free cancellation and a flexible booking policy, this tour provides an affordable way to discover Sri Lanka’s top attractions.
However, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or a low fitness level.
Read our full review: 6-Day Sri Lanka Budget Tour (Private Tour) Review
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Kandy City Day Tour and Trip Private Luxury Car and Van
Explore Kandy’s cultural tapestry and natural wonders on this private luxury car and van tour.
You’ll enjoy a 5.0-rated experience with 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a driver/guide, bottled water, free Wi-Fi, and a delectable Sri Lankan and English lunch.
With flexible duration based on group size, the tour is available from 10/29/2023 to 8/31/2026. While not wheelchair accessible, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.
Prices start from SEK 284.66 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation/rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Kandy City Day Tour and Trip Private Luxury Car and Van Review
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Kandy: Private Guided Tour With Local Highlights by Tuk Tuk
Kandy’s captivating essence unfolds on this private guided tour by Tuk Tuk, offering travelers an immersive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and local highlights.
The 4-hour experience whisks visitors to sites like the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, Queens Bathing Pavilion, and a Buddhist temple with panoramic vistas.
Along the Mahawali River, there’s a chance to spot wildlife like monkeys and possibly even a jaguar.
Between visits, the guide recommends a stop at a local restaurant for a taste of the cuisine.
Customization is available, and the tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and scenic stops at a tea plantation.
With a 4.7/5 rating, this Tuk Tuk tour promises an authentic and engaging introduction to Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy: Private Guided Tour With Local Highlights by Tuk Tuk Review
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Private Traditional Sri Lankan Cooking Class in Kandy With Hotel Transfers
Travelers seeking an authentic culinary experience can enjoy the flavors of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine during a private cooking class in Kandy.
The class includes a traditional Sri Lankan lunch with options for dietary preferences, such as vegan/vegetarian or gluten-free. The menu features rice, lentil curry, fish/chicken curry, sweet and sour curries, and sambol.
All necessary kitchen equipment is provided, and transportation via tuk tuk or van is included. With 66 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this experience offers an opportunity to gain cultural insights and enjoy delicious homemade Sri Lankan flavors.
The class lasts a few hours and can be booked for $45 per person with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Private Traditional Sri Lankan Cooking Class in Kandy With Hotel Transfers Review
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Kandy To Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Private Tour
This private tour from Kandy to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the largest herd of captive elephants in the world.
The tour lasts 4 hours and includes hotel pickup, transportation by tuk-tuk, a 2-hour visit to the orphanage, and free time for photos and exploration.
Visitors can save up to 10% on the tour, which costs $16.76 per person.
The orphanage, founded in 1975, is home to 71 elephants and is a notable destination for its recent twin elephant births.
The tour includes entrance fees, and customers have rated it 5/5 based on reviews.
Read our full review: Kandy To Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Private Tour Review
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Full-Day Private Sigiriya and Dambulla From Kandy
Setting out on a full-day private tour, visitors can discover the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sigiriya and Dambulla from the city of Kandy.
This tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and a knowledgeable local guide. Visitors can climb the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress and explore the renowned Dambulla Cave Temple.
While lunch isn’t included, the tour allows for an optional curry lunch at the travelers’ expense. Entrance fees, taxes, and other charges are all covered in the price, which varies based on group size.
With a 5.0 overall rating and 97% recommendation rate, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to these must-see Sri Lankan destinations.
Read our full review: Full-Day Private Sigiriya and Dambulla From Kandy Review
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Private Kandy Pinnawala Day Tour From Hikkaduwa
Visitors seeking to explore the cultural and natural wonders beyond Hikkaduwa can embark on a private day tour to the historic city of Kandy and the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
Priced at €113.54 per person, the 10-hour tour includes pickup, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees to key sites like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Along the way, travelers can enjoy Sri Lankan heritage, participate in a tea tasting, and enjoy a local lunch.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this flexible tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Kandy and Pinnawala’s cultural and scenic highlights.
Read our full review: Private Kandy Pinnawala Day Tour From Hikkaduwa Review
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The 10 Tastings of Kandy With Locals: Private Street Food Tour
Priced from €65.00 per person, the private “10 Tastings of Kandy With Locals” street food tour offers an immersive culinary exploration of the historic city.
With a 4.5-star rating from 70 reviews, the tour includes a local guide, 10 food and drink tastings, and vegetarian options. Guests are picked up and dropped off at the Kandy City Centre.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly. Highlights include trying local fruits, sweets, snacks, and traditional dishes, as well as learning about Kandy’s culture and food from the guide.
Some guests reported enjoying the variety of tastes and relaxed atmosphere, though others noted issues with vegetarian options and the guide’s engagement.
Read our full review: The 10 Tastings of Kandy With Locals: Private Street Food Tour Review
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Private Kandy Pinnawala Day Tour From Bentota
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Kandy and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Private Kandy Pinnawala Day Tour from Bentota offers an immersive experience.
Priced at $125 per person, the 12-hour tour includes a guided visit to the Temple of the Tooth, a stroll around Kandy Lake, and an optional stop at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Participants will also witness traditional wood carving and learn about the island’s gemstone heritage.
Lunch at a local restaurant featuring Sri Lankan cuisine is included, while optional activities at the Geragama Tea Factory incur an additional fee.
With a chauffeur guide, air-conditioned transportation, and flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Kandy’s cultural treasures.
Read our full review: Private Kandy Pinnawala Day Tour From Bentota Review
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Kandy Sigiriya Day Trip With Private Transportation
Setting out on a captivating Kandy Sigiriya day trip, travelers can enjoy the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
The private tour takes visitors to two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple and the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, travelers will explore these remarkable landmarks, encountering playful macaques along the way.
With private transportation, hotel pickup, and admission fees included, the day trip offers a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Whether marveling at Sigiriya’s lion gate and palace or delving into Dambulla’s centuries-old Buddhist artwork, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into Sri Lanka’s captivating past.
Read our full review: Kandy Sigiriya Day Trip With Private Transportation Review
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Kandy: the Last Kingdom Private Day Tour From Colombo Harbor
From the Colombo harbor, travelers can embark on a captivating private day tour to explore the historic city of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last royal kingdom.
This 10-hour tour includes pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking chauffeur guide, visits to a spice garden, tea factory, Bahirawakanda Buddha statue, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Lunch at Oakray Restaurant and all entrance fees are covered. Highlights include experiencing Sri Lanka’s spice and tea heritage, appreciating scenic views, and immersing in the region’s rich culture and history.
With a flexible cancellation policy and reserve now, pay later option, this private tour offers a well-rounded Kandy experience from the Colombo port.
Read our full review: Kandy: the Last Kingdom Private Day Tour From Colombo Harbor Review
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Kandy to Sigiriya Day Tour and Dambulla Cave Temple With Private Vehicle
Travelers seeking to discover the ancient wonders of Sri Lanka can embark on a captivating day tour from Kandy to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple.
This full-day tour, offered by Lanka Safe Tours, has earned a 98% recommendation rate from 191 reviews. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking driver.
Visitors can explore the iconic Sigiriya, the dramatic Dambulla Cave Temple, and a spice garden, all while enjoying bottled water.
Although guided tours at the sites are available for an additional fee, the tour’s flexibility allows guests to customize the itinerary based on their preferences.
With a starting price of $40.71 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides an excellent value for travelers.
Read our full review: Kandy to Sigiriya Day Tour and Dambulla Cave Temple With Private Vehicle Review
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Private Pinnawala & Kandy Day Tour From Negombo
Exploring the captivating sights of Pinnawala and Kandy, this private day tour offers an immersive experience for travelers seeking to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka.
Priced from $75 per person, the 11-hour tour whisks you from Negombo to the iconic Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Royal Botanic Gardens, the revered Temple of the Tooth, and Kandy’s breathtaking lake.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy guided tours, free time for sightseeing, and the option to attend a traditional dance show.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife, history, or tea production, this flexible, cancellable tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the region’s top attractions.
Read our full review: Private Pinnawala & Kandy Day Tour From Negombo Review
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Private Tour to Dambulla and Sigiriya From Kandy in a A/C Car
A captivating private day excursion from Kandy whisks travelers to the famed Dambulla Cave Temple and the majestic Sigiriya rock fortress.
With an impressive 5.0 rating from 66 reviews, this tour is recommended by 98% of travelers and holds a Badge of Excellence.
Highlights include air-conditioned transportation, a breakfast packet, bottled water, and entrance fees to the Sri Muthumariamman Temple, Dambulla Cave Temple, and Sigiriya.
Though not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, flexible itinerary, and local dining experiences, making this an enjoyable and well-organized day trip from Kandy.
Read our full review: Private Tour to Dambulla and Sigiriya From Kandy in a A/C Car Review
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Kandy: Full Day Private Custom City Tour!
Eager to discover the vibrant city of Kandy at your own pace? Consider the full-day private custom city tour, offering a flexible and customizable experience.
This 9-hour tour, priced from $65 per person, provides a live English-speaking guide and private air-conditioned transportation.
Explore iconic attractions like the Bahirawakanda Buddha statue, tea plantations, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and the Temple of the Tooth, all at your leisure.
Pickup and drop-off from your Kandy hotel are included, along with all entrance fees. While food and drinks aren’t provided, gratuities are left to your discretion.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a hassle-free way to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy: Full Day Private Custom City Tour! Review
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Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour From Kandy With Friendly Chauffeur
Travelers seeking to enjoy the cultural richness of Dambulla and Sigiriya can embark on a private tour from Kandy with a friendly chauffeur.
This highly-rated experience, with a 99% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, promises a personalized journey. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle, and both breakfast and lunch.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Knowledgeable guides like Janika and Janaka are praised for their thoughtfulness and flexibility, ensuring a comfortable pace.
Some travelers have expressed concerns about rushed schedules, but overall, the tour is considered a worthwhile investment.
Read our full review: Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour From Kandy With Friendly Chauffeur Review
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Kandy Full Day Tour From Negombo (Private Day Tour)
Visitors seeking to explore the cultural richness of Kandy can embark on a comprehensive full-day tour from Negombo. The tour offers a private air-conditioned vehicle, allowing guests to visit key attractions like the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Tea Factory, Royal Botanical Garden, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and more.
Priced at $52.65 per person, the tour provides excellent value with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup and drop-off are available from various locations, and the tour is highly rated by previous customers for the knowledgeable guide and diverse activities.
With entrance fees included and ample free time, this Kandy tour is an ideal way to discover the region’s history and natural wonders.
Read our full review: Kandy Full Day Tour From Negombo (Private Day Tour) Review
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Sum Up
Private drivers in Kandy offer a wide range of tours and services to meet the diverse needs of visitors. They provide personalized experiences, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guidance to help travelers explore the city’s cultural attractions, historical sites, and natural wonders. Tourists can choose from a variety of private tour options, ensuring a tailored and convenient travel experience in Kandy and its surrounding areas.
More Tour Reviews in Kandy
- Sri Lanka: 6-DayTour of Kandy-Nuwara Eliya-Bentota & Colombo
- From Nuwara Eliya To Kandy Drop Tour
- From Colombo or Negombo: Pinnawala, Kandy & Tea Factory Tour
- From Colombo: Kandy, Pinnawala and Tea Factory Full-Day Trip
- Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk with hotel Pickup and Dropoff
- 6 Days of Sri Lanka with all inclusive Ayurvedha Uplift
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Kandy we have reviewed
- Sri Lanka: 6-DayTour of Kandy-Nuwara Eliya-Bentota & Colombo
- From Nuwara Eliya To Kandy Drop Tour
- From Colombo or Negombo: Pinnawala, Kandy & Tea Factory Tour
- From Colombo: Kandy, Pinnawala and Tea Factory Full-Day Trip
- Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk with hotel Pickup and Dropoff
- 6 Days of Sri Lanka with all inclusive Ayurvedha Uplift
- Kandy Esala Perahera (2025 July-30 – 2025 Aug-09)
- Private Kandy City Tuk-Tuk Tour and Cultural Dance Show
- Kandy: City Tuk-Tuk Day Tours with a Local Guide
- From Kandy: Sigiraya Day Tour
- Kandy City Tour: UNESCO heritage city and temple visit
- Kandy to Ambuluwawa Tower, Pinnawala, Full Day Tour