ceylara

Central Highlands Exploration – Kandy

Tour Overview

Embark on an enriching journey to the cultural and natural heart of Sri Lanka—Kandy. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Kandy offers a unique blend of tradition, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. This tour lets you explore sacred landmarks, interact with majestic elephants, stroll through lush gardens, and immerse yourself in local crafts and spices.

Tour Highlights

  • Sacred Temple of the Tooth – Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, where the sacred relic of the Buddha’s tooth is housed. Discover the significance of this religious site, a cornerstone of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
  • Breathtaking Scenic Views – Enjoy panoramic vistas of Kandy’s picturesque hills, surrounded by lush tea plantations and mist-covered mountains.
  • Royal Botanic Gardens – Wander through the expansive Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, home to a variety of tropical plants, orchids, and medicinal herbs, offering a perfect escape into nature.
  • Spice & Plantation Tour – Visit spice gardens in Matale and Mawanella and learn how Sri Lanka’s rich heritage of spice cultivation contributes to global cuisine and wellness practices.
  • Cultural Craft Experiences – Engage with local artisans at gem-cutting, wood-carving, and batik workshops, observing traditional craftsmanship passed down through generations.

  • Wildlife Encounter at Pinnawala – Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary to learn about elephant conservation efforts and interact with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Itinerary

  • Morning: Pick-up from your hotel in Colombo, beginning your scenic drive to Kandy.
  • Sacred Temple of the Tooth – Explore this revered religious site and understand its deep cultural significance for Buddhists and Sri Lankans.
  • Scenic Overlook of Kandy – Capture stunning panoramic views of Kandy's lush hills and the surrounding valley.
  • Royal Botanic Gardens – Stroll through the vast gardens filled with tropical flora and rare orchids. Learn about the botanical wonders that thrive in this region.
  • Spice Plantation Tour – Visit spice plantations where you’ll discover Sri Lanka’s famous spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper. Hear about their culinary and medicinal uses.
  • Local Craft Workshops – Visit artisan workshops to observe traditional crafts like gem-cutting, wood carving, and batik. Engage with the craftspeople and gain insight into their work.
  • Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary – Spend time at the Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary, where you’ll have the chance to feed, bathe, and learn about the elephants’ care and conservation efforts.
  • Evening: Return to your hotel in Colombo, reflecting on a day of cultural, natural, and spiritual exploration.

Tour Includes

  • Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • English-speaking guide
  • Lunch at a local restaurant
  • Entrance fees to all mentioned attractions and activities
  • Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary visit
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Colombo

Tour Excludes

  • Dinner and snacks
  • Personal expenses and tips
  • Any additional activities or entrance fees not mentioned in the itinerary