Peradeniya Garden, Ambuluwawa and Pinnawala Day Tour from Kandy

Kandy , Sri Lanka

Peradeniya Garden, Ambuluwawa and Pinnawala Day Tour from Kandy

Active

5h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

I’ll pick you up from your hotel in Kandy or anywhere you're staying and take you to our first stop: the stunning Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, marvel at exotic plants, and capture picture-perfect memories amidst towering palms and colorful orchids.

Next, we’ll make our way to the iconic Ambuluwawa Tower. Prepare for a thrilling climb to the top of this unique spiral tower, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views stretching across lush landscapes, misty mountains, and the vibrant surroundings below.

Our final stop is Pinnawala Ape Gama, an authentic village experience where you’ll step back in time and witness Sri Lanka’s traditional way of life. Discover local crafts, interact with artisans, and even sample delicious Sri Lankan cuisine cooked the old-fashioned way.

After a day filled with amazing sights and unforgettable moments, I'll ensure a comfortable drive back to your hotel in Kandy.

Available options

By airconditioned Van

Pickup included

By air conditioned bus

Air Conditioned Bus<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

English Speaking Driver

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Main botanical garden of the country, Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. Fruit bats suspension bridge orchid house plants and trees beautiful garden giant bamboo

A must-visit destination for travelers seeking breathtaking views, unique architecture, and a spiritual experience in Sri Lanka. Located atop the Ambuluwawa Mountain in Gampola, this iconic multi-religious center offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the surrounding hills, tea plantations, rivers, and the town of Gampola itself.

The highlight of Ambuluwawa is its slender, spiraling tower, which is known for its dizzying ascent and dramatic perspectives. Standing at 48 meters, the tower’s winding staircase leads to an observation platform, providing an exhilarating experience with unmatched scenic views. The climb might seem challenging, especially as the spiral narrows near the top, but the reward is a spectacular view that feels like standing above the clouds.

Ambuluwawa is a symbol of harmony among different religions, featuring a stupa, a church, a Hindu kovil, and a mosque around the base, representing Sri Lanka’s diverse religious heritage.

innawala Ape Gama, or “Village of Pinnawala,” is a cultural theme park in Sri Lanka that gives visitors a unique glimpse into traditional village life and Sri Lankan heritage. Located near the famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Ape Gama is designed to resemble a typical Sri Lankan rural village, providing a blend of history, culture, and nature.

The village showcases traditional houses, paddy fields, and open cooking areas, where visitors can see artisans and villagers practicing age-old crafts and skills. You can witness pottery making, wood carving, and weaving, which are all done in the traditional ways. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the artisans, giving a hands-on feel for Sri Lanka’s rich cultural practices.

What's not included

Food and Snacks

Entrance Tickets for the attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Kandy

Kandy, the last royal capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Nestled in the hills, it offers a cooler climate and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

This temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. It's a major attraction for both locals and tourists.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake)

A picturesque lake in the heart of Kandy, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic sites.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

One of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia, featuring a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers. It's a great place for nature lovers and photographers.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

A forest reserve adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth, offering a peaceful retreat with walking trails, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (small fee for guided tours)

Kandy Esala Perahera

A grand festival held annually in August, featuring a vibrant procession of dancers, drummers, and elegantly decorated elephants. It's one of the most famous cultural events in Sri Lanka.

Cultural Multiple days Free (special seating may have a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.

Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Hoppers (Appa)

A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

String Hoppers (Idiyappa)

A traditional dish made from rice flour and coconut milk, steamed to form a bowl-like shape, often served with coconut sambal.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking Elephant watching Tea plantation tours Boat rides on Kandy Lake Tea tasting Spas and wellness centers Visiting temples and historic sites Attending cultural performances

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The Esala Perahera festival in August is a major highlight.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kandy is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Bandaranayake International Airport • 100 km

By train

Kandy Railway Station

By bus

Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Kandy. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable for long journeys.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Kandy Peradeniya Daluwala

Day trips

Nuwara Eliya

65 km • Full day

Known as 'Little England' for its colonial architecture and cool climate, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque town surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.

Sigiriya

100 km • Full day

Home to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The climb to the top offers stunning views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history.

Dambulla

80 km • Full day

Home to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five beautifully decorated caves with numerous Buddha statues and murals.

Festivals

Esala Perahera • August Vesak • May (date varies) Kandy Perehera • August (following the Esala Perahera)

Pro tips

Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Take the scenic train journey from Colombo to Kandy for a memorable experience.
Try local street food like kottu roti and wood apple juice for an authentic culinary experience.
Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of Kandy's history and culture.
Attend a cultural dance show to experience the rich traditions and heritage of the region.