Kandy Day Tours, Sri Lanka
Kandy to Pinawala
- Duration
- 1 Day
- Highlights
- 5
- Tour type
- Private
If you are looking for an authentic experience in the heart of the hill country, a private day trip to Pinnawala is probably at the top of your list. It’s one of those rare places where you can get up close to the giants of the forest while learning about the conservation efforts that keep them safe. This isn’t just a quick stop; it’s a full-day adventure that connects you with the nature, history, and culture of Sri Lanka. We’ve designed this day tour to be flexible, comfortable, and unforgettable for anyone staying in the city of Kandy.
Why should you visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Sri Lanka?
The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was established way back in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation. Originally, it was meant to provide a home for orphaned elephants found wandering alone in the wild forests without their mothers. Today, it has grown into one of the most famous spots in Sri Lanka, housing the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. It’s a place where these beautiful creatures are nurtured, bred, and cared for in a safe environment.
When you visit Pinnawala elephant residents, you’re seeing the results of decades of conservation work. These are Asian elephants, which are slightly smaller than their African cousins but every bit as majestic. For many travelers, this is the first time they see so many elephants in one place. It’s different from a safari in Yala or Minneriya because here, you are much closer to the animals. You get to see their social bonds and how the younger ones interact with the older members of the herd.
Tour highlights
What you will see
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Witness the world’s largest herd of captive elephants. Observe baby elephants being fed and bathed in the river from 9 AM to 1 PM.
Spice and Herbal Garden
Explore Sri Lanka’s world-renowned spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg while learning about their uses in cooking and medicine.
Ceylon Tea Plantation & Factory Tour
Experience the journey of Sri Lanka’s finest tea, from lush plantations to a perfectly brewed cup.
Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens
Stroll through 147 acres of breathtaking greenery with over 4,000 species of exotic plants and towering palm trees.
Scenic Drive Through Sri Lanka’s Landscape
Enjoy picturesque views of lush countryside, rolling hills, and vibrant local villages along the journey.
Itinerary
Your day, step by step
Kandy
The Kandy to Pinnawala Day Tour starts around 8 am after the guests have their breakfast at the overnight hotel in Kandy. The tour covers a few tourist attractions along the route to Pinnawala.
Pinnawala orphanage.
The tour starts from Kandy and heads directly to the Pinnawala orphanage. Pinnawala is a special place to see elephants in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation
The Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation established the institute in 1975 to take care of the orphaned baby elephants wandering in the wild forests. These beautiful creatures are taken in, nurtured, and bred in captivity. It is located in Pinnawala village, 13 km northeast of Kegalle town. The Pinnawala orphanage is home to the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. The ideal time to visit the orphanage is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hence, this is the time when baby elephants are fed milk and given their daily baths. The guests will get a fabulous opportunity to watch these tamed elephants play and bathe in the nearby river.
Kandy
On the way back to Kandy, the first location we will come across is the Spice Garden. Sri Lanka is world renowned for its rare spices and herbs. When staying in Sri Lanka, a visit to an herb garden is necessary to get a unique insight into the island’s long history of herbs and spices. Turmeric, pepper seeds, carnations, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa beans, aloevera, and other spices can be seen growing in their natural environment at the Spice and Herbal Garden.
Tea plantation and Tea Factory
Then the next destination will be the tea plantation and tea factory. You have not visited Sri Lanka properly if you have not been to a tea plantation. As tea is a unique feature in Sri Lanka, we will take you through the journey of a tea leaf from the plant to the cup.
Mahaweli River
The final beautiful spot on the journey before the end is the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, which is home to over 4,000 species of plants, from flowers to palm trees. It is approximately 5.5 kilometers away from Kandy city. The botanical garden is next to the largest river in Sri Lanka, named the Mahaweli River. It is a massive 147 acres of beauty. Ultimately, the Kandy to Pinnawala Day Tour by Lanka Safe Tours, comes to an end back at the hotel
What’s included
Included
- Bottled water
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Driver/guide
Not included
- Drinks
- Lunch
- Food and drinks
Let’s plan your getaway
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- Private tour, just your group
- Shaped around your dates and pace
- Planned by a local team
