Kandy: the Last Kingdom Private Day Tour From Colombo Harbor

The "Kandy: the Last Kingdom Private Day Tour From Colombo Harbor" invites visitors to explore the rich cultural tapestry of Sri Lanka’s former capital. This 10-hour excursion takes travelers on a journey through the aromatic Mawanella Spice Garden, the historic Giragama Tea Factory, and the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, all while enjoying a scenic drive around the serene Kandy Lake. With personalized roundtrip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees included, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those eager to uncover the essence of Kandy’s enduring legacy as the last kingdom of Sri Lanka.

Good To Know

1. This private day tour from Colombo harbor to historic Kandy showcases the rich history and cultural landmarks of the former capital of Sri Lanka’s last kingdom.

2. The tour includes visits to a spice garden, tea factory, and the Temple of the Tooth Relic, providing an immersive experience in Sri Lankan heritage and traditions.

3. Travelers will enjoy a scenic drive, a guided tour with an English-speaking chauffeur, and a complimentary lunch, with all transportation and entrance fees included in the $120 per person price.

4. The tour’s flexible and personalized format allows for customization based on individual interests, with the freedom to ask questions and engage with the guide throughout the day.

5. Highlights of the tour include exploring the Mawanella Spice Garden, learning about tea production at the Giragama Tea Factory, and enjoying the tranquil beauty of Kandy Lake.

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private day tour from Colombo harbor allows visitors to explore the historic city of Kandy, the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings.

Priced from $120 per person, the 10-hour tour includes roundtrip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission to key sites.

Highlights include a spice garden, tea factory, and the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic.

Lunch and a bottle of water are provided. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour departs from select hotels in Colombo, Mount Lavinia, or Negombo, and children 4 and under travel free with a paying adult.

With flexibility to adjust the itinerary, this private tour offers an immersive Kandy experience.

Itinerary Highlights

Commencing with a scenic tour of Kandy city, visitors will be captivated by its rich history and cultural landmarks.

They’ll then venture to the Mawanella Spice Garden, where they can sample an array of aromatic spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom.

Next, the group will visit the Giragama Tea Factory, established in 1824, to learn about Sri Lanka’s renowned tea cultivation.

After a delectable lunch at Oakray Restaurant, they’ll explore a gem lapidary and wood carving center before marveling at the impressive Bahirawakanda Buddha statue.

The tour culminates at the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a significant Buddhist site, and a scenic drive around Kandy Lake.

Inclusions

The tour’s inclusions ensure a comprehensive and comfortable experience for visitors. Pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle from Colombo harbor provides seamless transportation.

The English-speaking chauffeur guide leads sightseeing tours, sharing insights into the destinations. Lunch at the Oakray Restaurant, with a refreshing chilled beer, offers a chance to recharge.

Entrance fees to all sites are covered, and a complimentary bottle of water is provided during the tour. The inclusions also encompass all government taxes and gratuities, eliminating any hidden costs.

This attention to detail allows guests to fully enjoy the tour’s highlights without logistical concerns.

Important Information

Travelers must be ready at the passenger pier in Colombo harbor 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

Roundtrip transportation from Colombo harbor is provided. While gratuity isn’t included, it’s left to the individual’s discretion.

Modest attire is required, covering shoulders and knees, for entry into sacred sites. A valid passport is necessary for site access.

Children 4 and under can join the tour for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

The itinerary is subject to change, so travelers should check availability for start times.

This private group experience features an English-speaking live tour guide, offering flexibility throughout the day.

Experience and Flexibility

This private group experience offers travelers a flexible and personalized tour. The English-speaking chauffeur guide leads the way, allowing guests to customize the itinerary based on their interests. For instance, they may linger longer at the Bahirawakanda Buddha statue or explore the Gem Lapidary center in greater depth.

Additionally:

• The tour’s start time can be adjusted to accommodate guest preferences and schedules.
• Visitors have the freedom to ask questions and engage with the guide throughout the day.
• The itinerary remains subject to change, ensuring adaptability to unexpected opportunities or events.
• This intimate tour format provides a more immersive and enriching experience than larger group excursions.

Spice Garden Visit

A vibrant Mawanella Spice Garden awaits visitors, where they can enjoy the captivating aromas and flavors of Sri Lanka’s renowned spices.

Guests stroll through rows of fragrant plants, where they’ll discover the origins of cinnamon, ginger, pepper, vanilla, and cardamom. An expert guide enlightens them on the cultivation and uses of these precious spices, allowing them to sample and savor the unique tastes.

This interactive experience offers a delightful sensory journey, transporting visitors to the heart of Sri Lanka’s spice-rich heritage. Guests depart with a newfound appreciation for the country’s rich culinary traditions and the chance to bring home a taste of these flavorful treasures.

Tea Factory Tour

Traversing the lush, verdant landscapes, the tour makes its way to the Giragama Tea Factory, a celebrated institution that has been cultivating Sri Lanka’s renowned teas since 1824.

Visitors are whisked through the factory’s inner workings, learning the meticulous process of tea production:

• Witnessing the skilled workers expertly hand-pluck the delicate tea leaves
• Observing the leaves’ transformation through oxidation, rolling, and sorting
• Exploring the distinct aromas and flavors of different tea varietals
• Enjoying a freshly brewed cup of the region’s signature black tea

This immersive experience offers a captivating glimpse into the rich heritage and craftsmanship that has made Sri Lankan tea a global treasure.

Lakeside Exploration

After exploring the tea factory’s inner workings, the tour continues its journey, winding through the picturesque countryside towards the serene Kandy Lake.

Nestled amidst lush greenery, the lake’s tranquil waters provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city. Visitors can stroll along the upper lake drive, taking in the scenic views of the surrounding hills and the historic Bahirawakanda Buddha statue that overlooks the lake.

The tour guide shares insights about the lake’s origins, explaining how it was constructed in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe.

As the group takes in the serene ambiance, they gain a deeper appreciation for Kandy’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour’s itinerary can be customized to fit the traveler’s preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing clients to adjust the schedule and activities to match their interests and needs.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Entrance Fees or Activities?

The tour includes entrance fees to all the sites on the itinerary, so there are no additional costs for visitors. The price covers comprehensive sightseeing with a knowledgeable guide, transportation, lunch, and more, providing excellent value for the experience.

Is It Possible to Add More Stops or Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour’s flexibility allows travelers to customize their experience. They can add more stops or extend the duration by communicating with the tour operator, who’ll adapt the itinerary to their preferences for an additional cost.

How Experienced Are the Tour Guides, and What Languages Do They Speak?

The tour guides on this private day tour are experienced and knowledgeable, providing insightful commentary in English. They’re well-versed in the local culture, history, and attractions, ensuring a enriching experience for guests.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Amount of Luggage I Can Bring?

The tour doesn’t have any specific restrictions on the amount of luggage participants can bring. Guests are free to carry their personal belongings during the day trip, as long as they’re able to comfortably manage them.

The Sum Up

The Kandy: the Last Kingdom Private Day Tour From Colombo Harbor offers an exceptional opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. From the aromatic Mawanella Spice Garden to the historic Giragama Tea Factory, the tour provides a captivating blend of experiences that culminate in a visit to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of Kandy Lake. This comprehensive journey promises an unforgettable exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural heart.