Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella Day Trip

Set out on a captivating day trip from Kandy to the lush hill country of Nuwara Eliya and Ella. This guided excursion promises to immerse you in stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the serene ambiance of Sri Lanka’s highlands. Marvel at the cascading Ramboda Falls, stroll through the vibrant Hakgala Botanical Gardens, and explore the time-honored tea-making traditions at the historic Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Factory. As you savor a delightful lunch in the charming colonial town of Nuwara Eliya, prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking sunset views at Shanthipura. With an all-inclusive price tag, this day trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to uncover the hidden gems that make this region a true gem.

Good To Know

• A comprehensive 9-hour day trip from Kandy exploring the scenic highlights of Nuwara Eliya and Ella, including Ramboda Falls, Hakgala Botanical Gardens, and a tea factory tour.
• Competitively priced at LKR 2,251 per person, covering hotel pickup, bottled water, fees, and an experienced English-speaking driver/guide.
• Discover the natural beauty of Ramboda Falls, the second-largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka, and learn about the tea production process at Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Factory.
• Enjoy a guided tour of the colonial-era town of Nuwara Eliya and savor local delicacies during the lunch break.
• Flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring convenience for travelers.

Tour Overview

This day trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s picturesque Hill Country.

Priced at LKR 2,251 per person, the 9-hour tour includes hotel pickup in Kandy and a small group of no more than 5 participants.

Highlights include visiting Ramboda Falls, Hakgala Botanical Gardens, and a tea factory tour.

Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the colonial town of Nuwara Eliya and capture stunning sunset views from Shanthipura.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this day trip provides a hassle-free way to discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this remarkable region.

Pricing Details

The Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella day trip is priced at LKR 2,251 per person. This all-inclusive package covers a 9-hour journey, with hotel pickup in Kandy and a small group limited to 5 participants.

The price includes:

• Bottled water, fees, and taxes
• An experienced English-speaking driver/guide
• Hotel pickup/drop-off and parking fees
• Entrance to the Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Factory

Plus, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible and convenient option for travelers.

With a focus on natural wonders, cultural experiences, and stunning scenery, this day trip offers great value for the price.

Itinerary Highlights

Although the Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella day trip covers a significant distance, the itinerary is carefully curated to showcase some of Sri Lanka’s most captivating natural and cultural highlights.

First, you’ll visit the 109-meter-tall Ramboda Falls, the 11th highest in the country. Next, you’ll explore the expansive Hakgala Botanical Gardens, renowned for its diverse orchids and roses.

The tour then takes you to the Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Factory, where you’ll get a 1.5-hour guided tour on the intricate tea production process.

In Nuwara Eliya, you’ll enjoy lunch on your own before touring the town, a former British hill station.

The day culminates with a visit to Shanthipura, the highest village in the northeast, offering stunning sunset photography opportunities.

Ramboda Falls

At 109 meters high, the Ramboda Falls is the 11th tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka.

Located just an hour into the tour, visitors can spend around 60 minutes exploring the cascading waters and surrounding lush greenery.

The waterfall is a popular spot for photographers, offering stunning views and picturesque backdrops.

Some key highlights include:

• The sheer power and volume of the falling water, creating a mesmerizing sight and sound
• The opportunity to hike up to the viewing platform for a bird’s-eye view of the falls
• The chance to spot local wildlife, such as monkeys and vibrant butterflies, in the surrounding forests

Hakgala Botanical Gardens

After departing Ramboda Falls, the tour continues to the second largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka – the Hakgala Botanical Gardens.

Nestled in the misty hills of Nuwara Eliya, this lush garden boasts an impressive collection of over 10,000 plant species.

Visitors can wander through the meticulously maintained gardens, admiring the vibrant displays of orchids, roses, and rhododendrons.

The garden’s cool, temperate climate provides the perfect environment for these diverse flora.

During the 1-hour visit, guests can explore the well-marked trails, soak in the serene atmosphere, and learn about the botanical marvels that make this garden a must-see destination on the day trip.

Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Factory

From Hakgala Botanical Gardens, the tour proceeds to the Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Factory.

This 1.5-hour guided tour provides an in-depth look into the tea production process. Visitors will learn:

• The history and significance of the Mackwoods brand, which has been producing Ceylon tea since the 1870s.
• The intricate steps involved in plucking, withering, rolling, fermentation, drying, and sorting the tea leaves.
• The unique flavor profiles and quality control measures that ensure Mackwoods tea meets the highest standards.

The factory tour offers a hands-on experience, allowing guests to witness the transformation of fresh tea leaves into the final packaged product.

This stop provides a deep appreciation for the artistry and expertise required to create the perfect cup of Ceylon tea.

Nuwara Eliya Exploration

The tour then ventures into Nuwara Eliya, a charming town that has long captivated visitors with its colonial-era architecture and picturesque landscapes.

Travelers will enjoy a lunch at their own expense, savoring local delicacies and taking in the quaint atmosphere.

Afterward, a guided tour of the town reveals its rich history as a beloved British resort, showcasing grand Victorian-style buildings, lush green spaces, and a tranquil lake.

Nuwara Eliya’s temperate climate and scenic beauty make it a popular getaway, offering a refreshing respite from the tropical heat.

Visitors can explore the town’s unique character, seeing its colonial heritage and natural wonders.

Customer Testimonial

Though the day trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella was packed with a diverse array of experiences, one traveler, Bethany from Ireland, found the tour to be thoroughly enjoyable.

According to Bethany’s review, the tour was tailored to her preferences, and everything was "very well organized."

She particularly appreciated:

• The knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide who made the journey seamless.
• The opportunity to capture stunning sunset views at Shanthipura, the highest village in the northeast.
• The guided tour at the Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Factory, providing insights into the tea production process.

Bethany’s glowing review reflects the attention to detail and focus on customer satisfaction that define this day trip experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. So if you need to cancel or reschedule, you can do so without any penalties as long as it’s done a day before the tour.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

This day trip has a small group size limited to 5 participants, allowing for a more personalized and intimate experience. The small group ensures travelers receive individual attention from the knowledgeable guide throughout the tour.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t seem to have any specific dietary restrictions or special requirements. However, customers are responsible for their own meals and drinks, so they’ll need to plan accordingly based on their individual needs and preferences.

Can I Arrange a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group Tour?

Yes, you can arrange a private tour instead of the small group tour. The private tour offers more flexibility and personalized attention to meet your specific needs and preferences during the day trip.

What Is the Refund Policy if I Need to Cancel the Tour?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customers who cancel within 24 hours of the tour start time won’t receive a refund, but they can reschedule the tour at no additional cost.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella offers a remarkable opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s captivating natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the enchanting Ramboda Falls to the vibrant Hakgala Botanical Gardens, and the historic Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Factory, each experience promises to leave a lasting impression. Topped off with a delightful lunch in the charming town of Nuwara Eliya and breathtaking sunset views, this tour is an all-inclusive adventure not to be missed.