Kandy and Pinnawala: Private Day Trip From Colombo Harbor

Set out on a captivating journey that blends the enchanting beauty of Kandy and the fascinating wonders of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This private day trip from Colombo Harbor promises an unforgettable experience, where you’ll witness the gentle giants being fed and bathed, explore Kandy’s UNESCO-listed sites, and indulge in a delightful local lunch. With convenient port pickup, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees included, this tour offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural treasures. Prepare to be captivated as you explore the heart of this remarkable experience.

Good To Know

• This private day trip from Colombo Harbor includes a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the historic city of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The 8-hour tour is priced at K₨3,173 per person and includes complimentary port pickup, an English-speaking guide, and entry fees.
• Highlights include witnessing elephants during feeding time and bathing, a guided tour of Kandy, and a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option, making it convenient for travelers.
• Comfortable clothing is recommended, and children under 5 years can join for free with a paying adult.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private day trip from Colombo Harbor offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural highlights. Priced at just K₨3,173 per person, the 8-hour tour provides unparalleled value.

Guests can look forward to a complimentary port pickup, an English-speaking guide, and entry to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

After observing these majestic creatures, the journey continues to the UNESCO-listed city of Kandy, where a delectable lunch and a captivating city tour await.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option, this private day trip is the perfect way to discover the wonders of Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland.

Itinerary Highlights

The private day trip from Colombo Harbor kicks off at 8:30 AM with a pickup from the port.

First, you’ll visit the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, established in 1975 to care for abandoned and orphaned elephants. Witness the gentle giants during their feeding time and as they bathe in the river – a truly captivating experience.

After this, you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch at the Oak-Ray Restaurant in Kandy.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the historic city of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the Upper Lake Drive, browse the vibrant Market Square, and learn about the local gem lapidary and wood carving crafts.

Included Services

The private day trip from Colombo Harbor includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure an enriching and seamless experience.

Pickup and drop-off at the port are provided, along with an English-speaking guide who’ll lead the way.

Entrance fees to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and other sites are covered, so you won’t have to worry about any additional costs.

A delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Kandy is also included, and bottled water will be available throughout the tour.

With all these services taken care of, you can sit back, relax, and learn about the cultural wonders of Kandy and Pinnawala.

Important Information

Preparing for this private day trip from Colombo Harbor is straightforward. The roundtrip transportation from the port is included, so you don’t have to worry about getting there and back.

While gratuity isn’t covered, it’s left to your own discretion. Wear comfortable clothing, as you’ll be doing some walking during the tour.

Children 4 years and 11 months younger can join for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Just be sure to arrive at the passenger pier 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

With these details taken care of, you can focus on enjoying the highlights of Pinnawala and Kandy on this enriching excursion.

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Pickup and Drop-off

Your private day trip from Colombo Harbor begins with a convenient pickup.

Your English-speaking guide will greet you at the passenger pier 15 minutes before the scheduled 8:30 am departure.

You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to your first stop – the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

After observing the elephants’ feeding time and bathing in the river, you’ll continue on to the historic city of Kandy for a guided tour and lunch.

At the end of your 8-hour adventure, you’ll be dropped off right back at the Colombo Harbor, ready to continue your journey.

With hassle-free transportation and an informative guide, you can sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of Sri Lanka’s cultural heart.

Feeding and Bathing Elephants

Visitors can witness the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage‘s dedicated caretakers preparing a bountiful feast for the gentle giants during the allotted feeding time.

Elephants of all ages eagerly line up, their trunks reaching out to accept the fresh fruits and vegetables lovingly offered.

After the meal, the elephants amble down to the nearby river, where they playfully splash and submerge themselves, spraying water with their trunks.

It’s a captivating sight, as these magnificent creatures seemingly revel in the simple pleasures of their daily routine.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers a rare opportunity to observe the elephants’ natural behaviors in a protected and nurturing environment.

Exploring Kandy’s UNESCO Site

After witnessing the captivating display of elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the day trip now takes visitors on a journey to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kandy.

Nestled among rolling hills, this last stronghold of the Sinhalese kings boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and spirituality. The city tour includes a visit to the iconic Upper Lake Drive, the bustling Market Square, and immersive experiences at the Gem Lapidary and Wood Carving center.

At the heart of Kandy lies the revered Temple of the Tooth, a sacred Buddhist site housing a relic of the Buddha. Visitors are sure to be captivated by the city’s unique blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy.

Additional Considerations

When planning this private day trip from Colombo Harbor, a few additional considerations come into play. For instance, travelers should arrive at the passenger pier 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup to ensure a smooth start to their adventure. Plus, all children must be accompanied by an adult, as their safety is paramount. While gratuity is left to individual discretion, it’s a thoughtful gesture to recognize the guide’s efforts in providing an enriching experience. Finally, comfortable clothing is recommended to fully enjoy the day’s activities, from observing the elephants to exploring the vibrant city of Kandy.

Consideration	Details
Arrival Time	15 minutes before pickup
Children	Accompanied by adult
Gratuity	Discretionary
Clothing	Comfortable

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Entirely Private or Shared With Other Travelers?

The tour is a private day trip, tailored exclusively for the customer. You’ll enjoy a personalized experience without sharing the journey with other travelers, ensuring a more intimate and flexible exploration of the sights.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Stops?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to include additional stops. The tour offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests and preferences. Just discuss your desired changes with the tour provider.

What Currency Is the Tour Price Quoted In?

The tour price is quoted in Sri Lankan rupees (LKR), shown as "K₵3,173 per person". This is a common currency used in Sri Lanka, providing visitors an exciting opportunity to explore the country’s cultural highlights.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration beyond the listed 8 hours. However, the itinerary can be customized, and additional activities may be added, though this would incur an extra cost.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Beverages on the Tour?

Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and beverages on the tour. However, a delicious lunch at a local restaurant is included in the package, offering an authentic taste of the region’s cuisine.

The Sum Up

This private day trip from Colombo Harbor offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can witness the captivating Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, savor a delightful lunch, and explore the UNESCO-listed sights of Kandy, all while embracing the blend of cultural and natural wonders that Sri Lanka has to offer. It’s an enchanting journey that immerses travelers in the enchanting beauty of this remarkable destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: