Kandy day tour from Colombo

About this tour

A day tour from Colombo to Kandy is a popular excursion for visitors to Sri Lanka. Kandy, known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance, offers a variety of attractions. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a day tour:

Morning

1. Early Departure from Colombo:
   • Leave Colombo around 6:00 AM to avoid traffic and make the most of your day.
2. Travel to Kandy:
   • The journey takes about 3-4 hours by car. You can also take the train for a scenic route.

Mid-Morning

3. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (Optional):
   • On the way to Kandy, you can stop by this sanctuary to see elephants up close.

Late Morning

4. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic:
   • Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, which houses a relic of the tooth of Buddha.
   • Spend about 1-2 hours here.

Noon

5. Kandy Lake:
   • Take a leisurely walk around the picturesque lake.

Lunch

6. Local Cuisine:
   • Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at a local restaurant. Some popular places include the Kandy House or Helga’s Folly.

Afternoon

7. Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya:
   • Explore the beautiful gardens with a wide variety of plants and trees. Plan to spend about 1-2 hours here.
8. Kandy View Point:
   • Head to the viewpoint for a panoramic view of the city.
9. Cultural Show:
   • If time permits, catch a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

Late Afternoon

10. Shopping and Exploring:
    • Visit the Kandy City Center for souvenirs, local crafts, and gemstones.

Evening

11. Return to Colombo:
    • Depart Kandy by 5:00 PM to reach Colombo by late evening.

Additional Tips

• Dress Code: Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting temples.
• Comfortable Shoes: There will be a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast and carry an umbrella or raincoat if necessary.

This itinerary covers the main attractions and provides a good mix of cultural and natural sights. Enjoy your trip!