Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Colombo or Negombo to the historic city of Kandy, home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This 14-hour excursion promises a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, with a knowledgeable English-speaking chauffeur guiding you every step of the way. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Royal Botanical Gardens, savor a delightful lunch, and witness the intricate architecture of the temple that houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. As you soak in the picturesque landscapes, you’ll uncover the hidden secrets and timeless traditions that make Kandy a true gem in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Good To Know
- This day trip from Colombo or Negombo to Kandy is a 14-hour excursion that costs €67.70 per person, including hotel pickup/drop-off and round-trip transfers.
- The highlights include visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, exploring the Royal Botanical Gardens, and touring a local tea plantation.
- The package includes an English-speaking chauffeur, air-conditioned vehicle, lunch at a recommended restaurant, and complimentary mineral water.
- The tour is suitable for adults, children, and infants, but not for wheelchair users, and a modest dress code is required.
- While the guide and transportation have positive reviews, there are concerns about issues with food breaks, guide’s friendliness, and accuracy of the tour description.
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Trip Overview and Pricing
The day trip from Colombo or Negombo to Kandy provides travelers with an opportunity to explore the cultural and natural wonders of this historic city.
Priced at €67.70 per person, the 14-hour excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, return transfers, an English-speaking chauffeur, and an air-conditioned vehicle.
Lunch at a recommended restaurant and mineral water are also provided.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
The tour offers a chance to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, and experience a tea plantation.
Itinerary Highlights
Visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the most sacred site in Sri Lanka, provides travelers with a profound cultural experience. After exploring the temple, visitors can stroll through the immense Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, marveling at over 4,000 plant species. The day’s highlights also include:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Tea Plantation Tour | Gain insights into Sri Lanka’s thriving tea industry. |
| Scenic Viewpoints | Admire panoramic vistas of the picturesque city of Kandy. |
| Kandy City Tour | Discover the historic charm and shopping opportunities in the city. |
The carefully curated itinerary ensures an immersive experience, blending cultural, natural, and commercial elements for a well-rounded day trip from Colombo or Negombo.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This day trip includes a comprehensive package to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Participants will receive hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as round-trip transfers from Colombo.
An English-speaking chauffeur will guide the group throughout the journey in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Lunch at a recommended restaurant and complimentary mineral water bottles are also provided.
All government taxes are included in the price. However, personal expenses, entrance fees, and any additional activities not mentioned in the inclusions are excluded from the package.
Travelers are advised to bring their passport or ID and wear comfortable clothing that adheres to the dress code.
Participant Information
Participants for this Kandy day trip can be adults aged 12 to 99, children aged 6 to 11, and infants 5 and younger. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Recommended items include a passport or ID and comfortable shoes. Modest dress is required – no short skirts or sleeveless shirts.
| Participant Information | |
|---|---|
| Suitable Age Ranges | Adults (12-99) |
| Children (6-11) | |
| Infants (5 and under) | |
| Wheelchair Accessibility | Not suitable |
| Recommended Items | Passport or ID |
| Comfortable shoes | |
| Dress Code | No short skirts |
| No sleeveless shirts |
Customer Reviews and Ratings
According to the provided information, the Kandy day trip has an overall rating of 2.8 out of 5 based on 4 reviews.
The guide and transportation were rated 5 out of 5, and the value for money was rated 4 out of 5.
However, the feedback includes issues with food breaks, the guide’s friendliness, and the accuracy of the tour description.
Notable comments mention the lack of information during the tour and the dining experiences.
While the tour seems to offer valuable sights and activities, the customer reviews suggest there’s room for improvement, particularly in terms of the tour’s execution and the quality of the overall experience.
Getting to the Temple of the Tooth
One of the highlights of the Kandy day trip is a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the most sacred site in Sri Lanka. Visitors are ushered through a series of intricately decorated gates and courtyards, each revealing stunning architectural and artistic elements. The temple houses the relic of the Buddha’s tooth, which is paraded through the streets during the famous Esala Perahera festival.
| Temple Facts | Description |
|---|---|
| Architecture | Ornate and intricate, with a blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences. |
| Significance | Considered the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka, housing the sacred tooth of the Buddha. |
| Schedule | Open daily, with specific times for worship and viewing the relic. |
| Photography | Permitted in certain areas, but restrictions apply inside the main shrine. |
Exploring the Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya offer visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling city of Kandy. Sprawling across 147 acres, the gardens boast an impressive collection of over 4,000 plant species, including rare and exotic specimens.
Visitors can stroll through serene pathways, admire the iconic Kandy lake, and marvel at the towering palm trees that line the gardens. The experience is further enhanced by:
- Discovering vibrant orchid houses filled with delicate blooms.
- Exploring the enchanting spice garden and learning about the local flora.
- Witnessing the grand Javan fig tree, one of the oldest and largest in the world.
- Enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Mahaweli River.
- Appreciating the rich history and cultural significance of the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Visiting the Tea Plantation and Factory
During the Kandy day trip, visitors can expect an immersive experience at a local tea plantation and factory. Here, they’ll gain insight into Sri Lanka’s renowned tea industry, from the meticulous process of plucking the leaves to the intricate machinery involved in processing and packaging the final product.
Guests can explore the lush tea gardens, observe the skilled workers in action, and learn about the unique characteristics and flavors of Ceylon tea. This behind-the-scenes look offers a fascinating glimpse into the heart of Sri Lanka’s cherished tea culture, complementing the other highlights of the Kandy tour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
Yes, the tour operator may allow you to customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. They typically offer flexibility to adjust the program based on your interests and requirements within the overall tour duration.
What if I Have Dietary Restrictions or Requirements?
The tour operator is accommodating of dietary restrictions and requirements. Travelers should notify the operator in advance so they can make appropriate arrangements for meals during the tour.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tour?
The tour company offers hotel pickup from either Colombo or Negombo, so travelers don’t need to worry about getting to the starting point. They’ll be transported directly to the beginning of the day trip in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Can I Take Photographs at the Sacred Sites?
Visitors can take photographs at the sacred sites, but must be respectful and follow any rules or restrictions set by the site’s administrators. Some sites may prohibit photography in certain areas or during certain ceremonies.
What Are the Average Group Sizes for This Day Trip?
The average group size for this day trip is not specified. However, it’s likely a small to medium-sized group, allowing for personalized attention from the guide. Group size may vary depending on the number of bookings on a given day.
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The Sum Up
A day trip from Colombo or Negombo to Kandy offers a chance to take in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Visiting the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, strolling through the Royal Botanical Gardens, and exploring a tea plantation provide an unforgettable experience amidst the picturesque landscapes of Kandy. This well-rounded excursion allows travelers to deeply appreciate the country’s unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.