Kandy and Spice Garden Private Full-Day Tour from Colombo
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
You will be starting your tour at 6:00 am from your hotel in Colombo. If you bring a packed breakfast you will be able to eat along the way.Experience Sri Lanka’s old hill capital of Kandy on a privately guided, full-day trip from Colombo. Explore the Mawanella Spice Garden,Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens to see giant palms, orchids, and exotic flora. After free time for lunch (At your own cost) ,UNESCO-listed Kandy, with visits to the gold-roofed, UNESCO-listed Temple of the Tooth, Kandy market,Finish with a stop for dinner (own expense) on your return journey to Colombo.
Private day trip to Kandy from Colombo with a guide
Explore Spice Garden In Mawanella
Admire the world-famous Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, an oasis of exotic orchids, palms, and flora
Visit the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Sri Lanka's old hill capital Peruse the market, stroll by Kandy Lake
Receive full attention and personalized commentary from a private guide
Available options
01 to 03 Person (Vehicle Only)
Transport by A/C Car which can accommodate a Maximum of Three (3) Adults. Jeep to visit Park,Entry fees & Meals are excluded in this price<br/>Pickup included
7 to 8 Persons (Vehicle Only)
Transport by A/C Van which can accommodate a Maximum of Eight (8) Adults. Jeep to visit,Entry fees & Meals and drinks are <br/>Pickup included
4 to 6 Persons (Vehicle Only)
Transport by A/C Mini Van which can accommodate a Maximum of Six (6) Adults. Jeep to visit,Entry fees & Meals and drinks are excluded in this price<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Mavanella Spice Garden Visit
Private, air conditioned vehicle with English-speaking chauffeur guide
Local taxes, parking and highway charges
Detailed itinerary
1
Enjoy the Sri Lanka’s world renowned spices at their source. Visit a spice garden, where smells of cinnamons, pepper, cardamom, nutmeg and mace overwhelm the senses and the visitors are provided an insight into an age old industry of spice production, which attracted many a European and Asian merchants to the ports of ancient Sri Lanka.
2
Stop 2
The Temple of the Tooth. The Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha has had much importance throughout the history of Sri Lanka. Being able to protect it and enshrine it was not only regarded as a symbol of piousness; but also, a symbol of status that proved the worthiness of the ancient kings of the country. As such the relic was enshrined wherever the capital of the country was during the era of the kings. As the last kings made Kandy their capital, the relic was enshrined in the royal palace; where it remains to this day. You will be able to view the beautiful architecture of the palace and look at the many golden figurines in the shrine. There are many structures in the palace premises that you can visit.
3
At 12:00 am you will be going on technical tours to see the crafts of some of the traditional artisans of Kandy; such as the gem crafters, wood carvers and batik makers. You will get to see the process of how the they do their work, and will be able to purchase some great souvenirs (if you wish) too. You will finish these tours by 1:30 pm and break for lunch at a local restaurant (At your own cost)
4
After an enjoyable meal at your own cost, you will be able to go on to the next leg of your tour at 2:30 pm. You will get to the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya by 3:00 pm. 147-acre premises of the gardens hosts over 4000 species of plants; including an exclusive collection of orchids, spices and medicinal plants. Created early in the 19th century, the gardens have a significant amount of history that you will learn more about during your tour. You will also get to see famed plants such as the Cannonball Tree, the Giant Javan Fig tree, and the 40m tall Burma bamboo. You will complete your tour of the botanical gardens by 5:00 pm, and will then be returning to your hotel in Colombo; completing your tour.
What's not included
The personal spending (Tips, Laundry, Mini Bar, Telephone, Internet, Fax etc)
Lunch
Entrance Fees
Expenses of the excursions and sight seen not mentioned above
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A significant amount of walking is involved
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Each traveller is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable
Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking, however, Infant meals not included
Not recommended for participants with back problems, heart complaints or other serious medical conditions & pregnant women
The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time
About Colombo
Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.
Top Attractions
Galle Face Green
A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free
National Museum of Colombo
Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.
Museum
2-3 hours
LKR 1,000 (foreigners)
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Beira Lake
A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (boat rides may have a small fee)
Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.
Shopping
1-3 hours
Varies by shop
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.
Main Dish
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast/Dinner
Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.
Dinner/Snack
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
Main Dish
Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Water sports
Wildlife safaris
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Yoga
Temple visits
Museum tours
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.
28-32°C
82-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo
By train
Colombo Fort Station
By bus
Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Colombo Fort
Cinnamon Gardens
Galle Face
Pettah
Day trips
Kandy
115 km • Full day
Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.
Galle
120 km • Full day
Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Negombo
35 km • Half day
Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.
Festivals
Vesak • May (full moon day)
Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day)
Christmas • December 25
Pro tips
- Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
- Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
- Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
