From Bentota/ Kalutara: Magical Journey to Kandy & Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Starting from USD 85

Tour Type
day Tour
Pickup Location
Duration
10-12 Hours

Tour description


Start your day with a convenient pick-up from your hotel and journey to Pinnawala, where you'll experience the heartwarming sight of the world's largest captive elephant herd. Here, you can observe newborns and adult elephants freely roaming as you bottle-feed them and watch them splash and play in the nearby river. Continue your tour to the cultural and religious city of Kandy, where you'll explore the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, the tranquil Kandy Lake, and the unique Bahirawakanda Temple. Conclude your day with visits to a gem lapidary and an art and craft center, capturing cherished memories of Pinnawala and Kandy's rich cultural heritage (Day Tours from Bentota, Beruwala, Kalutara, Waskaduwa or Kosgoda).

Itinerary


  • 07:00 am: Start your day with a convenient hotel pick-up and journey towards the enchanting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
  • 09:00 am: Arrive at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to the world’s largest captive elephant herd. Established in 1975, this sanctuary cares for orphaned and unweaned wild elephants found wandering in Sri Lanka's forests. Witness these majestic creatures roam freely and enjoy unforgettable moments, such as bottle-feeding the elephants at 9:15 am, 1:15 pm, and 5:00 pm. You can also observe them as they bathe in the nearby river from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
  • 11:30 am: Depart from Pinnawala and head to the culturally rich city of Kandy.
  • 12:30 pm: Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Sri Lankan flavors.
  • 01:30 pm: Explore Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious capital. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world. Delve into the rich history of Kandy, once the last stronghold of Sri Lanka's ancient kings, and learn about its significant role in resisting colonial forces. Explore the scenic Kandy Lake, built by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1807, and the unique Bahirawakanda Temple, offering panoramic views of the city.
  • 03:30 pm: Conclude your tour with a visit to a local gem lapidary and an art and craft center, where you can appreciate the country's craftsmanship.
  • 04:30 pm: As your day comes to an end, you will be transferred back to your hotel, carrying with you treasured memories of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the cultural wonders of Kandy.

Includes


  • Transportation from hotel and back by private vehicle.
  • Service of English speaking chuffer guide.
  • The package includes fuel surcharge and driver charges, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable journey. Rest assured, parking fees are also covered, allowing you to focus on enjoying the tour without any additional expenses.
  • Stay refreshed throughout the tour with complimentary refreshments and water provided for your convenience.
  • All government taxes are included in the package, giving you peace of mind and transparency in pricing.

Excludes


  • Entrance Fees to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (US$ 15 per person).
  • Kandy Tooth Relic Temple (US$ 10 per person).
  • Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens (US$ 10 per person).
  • Lunch at a Local Restaurants
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.
  • Gratuities

Conditions


  • Booking and Confirmation: Book in advance and receive a confirmation email or ticket.
  • Minimum Participants: Some tours require a minimum number of participants.
  • Duration: Day tours are completed within a single day.
  • Itinerary: The tour will have a planned itinerary with specified attractions and activities.
  • Transportation: The mode of transportation will be specified.
  • Meeting Point: There will be a designated meeting point to start the tour.
  • Guide: Professional guides accompany the tour, providing information and assistance.
  • Costs and Inclusions: Tour price and what's included should be clearly communicated.
  • Cancellation and Refunds: Check the cancellation policy and consider travel insurance.
  • Health and Safety: Follow provided health and safety guidelines during the tour.

Know before you go


  • Dress code for visiting sacred places: When visiting sacred or holy places, it is necessary to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This dress code is typically followed out of respect for the religious and cultural customs of the place. It is advisable to adhere to these guidelines to show proper etiquette and avoid any inconvenience.
  • Transfers: The duration of transfers can vary depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. Expect potential delays and plan your schedule accordingly.
  • Passport: Make sure you have a current and valid passport on the day of travel, as it may be required for identification purposes, especially for international tours.
  • Gratuity: The tour price usually does not include gratuity for guides, drivers, or other service providers. It is customary to tip these individuals, but the amount is at your discretion. Carry local currency for tipping.
  • Wheelchair Accessibility: The activity is not wheelchair accessible. If you or someone in your group requires wheelchair accessibility, make sure to inquire about alternative options or suitable arrangements in advance.