How to Plan Your Private Kandy Day Tour with Pinnawala from Colombo

If you are visiting Colombo, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s cultural and historical capital, Kandy, in a day with a personalized private tour. The Private Kandy Day Tour with Pinnawala from Colombo is the best way to visit the highlights of the town and the charming Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Here’s how to plan your tour to make the most of your day.

Step 1: Plan Your Departure Time

The tour starts at 6:00 AM, so make sure to plan your departure time in advance. The pickup service included in the tour will take you from your Colombo hotel, so make sure you inform the tour company of your location and the exact time of arrival. Don’t forget to bring comfortable clothes and shoes, especially if you plan to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Step 2: Explore the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

As you arrive in Kandy, your driver-guide will take you to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This is one of the most revered places of worship among Buddhists worldwide and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have a chance to admire the intricate temple architecture, explore the exhibits of the museum, and witness the daily rituals of the monks. Make sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple premises.

Step 3: Stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens

The next stop in your tour is the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, one of the most visited tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. This 147-acre garden is home to more than 4000 species of flora and fauna, including giant bamboo, palm trees, orchids, and medicinal plants. In the gardens, you can stroll along the tree-lined paths, admire the colorful blooms, and enjoy a picnic lunch. Your guide will provide multi-language service, giving you insights into the history and significance of the garden’s plant collections.

Step 4: Experience the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

On your way back to Colombo, you will stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located in a picturesque valley beside the Maha Oya River. The orphanage is home to over 70 rescued elephants, from babies to adults, and visitors can witness their daily bath and feeding rituals. You can also interact with the playful calves and learn about the conservation efforts aimed at preserving the majestic Asian elephant species.

Step 5: Book Your Tour

To guarantee your spot in the Private Kandy Day Tour with Pinnawala from Colombo, book your tour in advance. The tour includes pickup and drop-off service by an air-conditioned vehicle, an expert English-speaking driver-guide, entrance fees to all attractions, and a gratuity for the driver and guide. Food and drinks other than specified are not included in the tour. Booking the tour is easy, just click on this link book the tour here and follow the step-by-step instructions. You can also select your preferred pickup point depending on your location in Colombo.

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The Private Kandy Day Tour with Pinnawala from Colombo is an excellent opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage in a day. With a designated driver-guide, you will have the independence to customize your itinerary and the comfort of avoiding public transport. Book your tour today and have an unforgettable experience in Kandy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Colombo City

Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, which is renowned for its tourist attractions, rich history, and cultural diversity. This city has a unique charm that attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. If you are planning to visit Colombo, then you might have certain questions in your mind. Don’t worry! In this blog post, we will answer some of your frequently asked questions about the Colombo city.

1. What is the best time to visit Colombo?

The best time to visit Colombo is from January to March, and from November to December. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the humidity is low. However, if you are looking for cheap flights, then you can plan your visit during the off-season (April to October).

2. How do I get to Colombo from the airport?

Colombo has one international airport, which is known as Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). You can take a taxi, bus, or train to reach the city center. The cheapest option is to take a bus or train, which costs around $1-2 USD. Taxis are also available, but they are relatively expensive.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Colombo?

Colombo has plenty of tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the top attractions are:

• The Galle Face Green
• The Colombo National Museum
• The Gangaramaya Temple
• The Independence Square
• The Viharamahadevi Park
• The Beira Lake
• The Mount Lavinia Beach
• The Pettah Market

4. What is the currency used in Colombo?

The currency used in Colombo is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You can exchange your currency at the airport or any authorized money changer in the city. It is also recommended to carry cash because credit cards are not widely accepted in Sri Lanka.

5. Is it safe to travel to Colombo?

Colombo is a relatively safe city, but just like any other major city, it is advisable to be cautious and take necessary precautions. Avoid carrying too much cash and expensive jewelry, and always keep an eye on your belongings. It is also recommended to avoid traveling alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

6. What should I wear in Colombo?

Colombo is a conservative city with a predominantly Buddhist population. It is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious places. It is also advisable to wear light and comfortable clothes due to the hot and humid weather.

7. What is the local language spoken in Colombo?

The official languages of Colombo are Sinhala and Tamil. However, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.

8. What is the local cuisine of Colombo?

Colombo has a diverse culinary scene, with a range of local and international cuisines. Some of the must-try local dishes are:

• Hoppers – A crispy bowl-shaped pancake served with coconut sambal and chili paste.
• Kottu – A popular street food made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood.
• Rice and Curry – A combination of rice with various curries, served with papadum and chutney.
• String Hoppers – A steamed rice noodle dish, usually served with dal or coconut milk.
• Lamprais – A Dutch-influenced dish made with rice cooked in meat or vegetable stock, baked with meat or seafood, and served with sambal and curry.

9. What is the best way to get around Colombo?

Colombo has various transportation options, including taxis, buses, tuk-tuks, and trains. Taxis are relatively expensive, while tuk-tuks are cheaper and convenient for short distances. Buses are the cheapest mode of transportation, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Train networks are available only to selected destinations.

10. What are the best shopping areas in Colombo?

Colombo is a shopper’s paradise, with a range of shopping options, from traditional markets to modern shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas in Colombo are:

• The Pettah Market – A bustling market with a range of products, from spices to textiles and electronics.
• The Arcade Independence Square – A chic shopping complex with a range of international and local brands.
• The Majestic City – A popular shopping mall with a selection of local and international brands.
• The ODEL – A high-end shopping mall with a range of designer and luxury brands.

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We hope that these FAQs about Colombo City have answered some of your questions and helped you plan your trip to this beautiful city. Don’t forget to try the local cuisines, explore the markets, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Colombo. Happy traveling!

How to spend your time as a tourist in Colombo

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka and serves as the country’s commercial capital. The city is a mix of old-world colonial charm and modern-day vibrancy, and it offers visitors a wide variety of experiences. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Colombo.

1. Visit the National Museum of Colombo

The National Museum of Colombo is the largest museum in Sri Lanka and has a vast collection of artefacts that showcase the country’s history and culture. Opened in 1877, the museum is located in the heart of Colombo’s cultural district and is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in Sri Lankan history.

2. Explore the Galle Face Green

The Galle Face Green is a popular public park that stretches along the coast of Colombo. The park is perfect for a relaxing picnic, an evening stroll, or even a game of cricket. Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of street food sold by local vendors, including kottu, a popular Sri Lankan dish made with shredded roti, vegetables, and meat.

3. Get a taste of Sri Lankan cuisine

Sri Lankan cuisine is a fusion of Indian, Arab, and European influences and is known for its spicy curries and rice dishes. Colombo is home to many excellent restaurants that serve authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Visitors can try dishes like string hoppers, hoppers, and kothu roti at local eateries.

4. Take a stroll in the Old Town

Colombo’s Old Town is a charming neighbourhood that is home to many historical buildings, including the Grand Oriental Hotel, which dates back to the 1800s. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the neighbourhood and explore the area’s colonial architecture.

5. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple

The Gangaramaya Temple is a Buddhist temple that is a cultural and spiritual landmark in Colombo. The temple houses a museum that showcases valuable artefacts from Sri Lanka’s history, including a golden throne that was gifted to the temple in 1885 by Burmese King Thibaw. Visitors can also attend the temple’s daily chanting and musical performances.

6. Shop at the Pettah Market

The Pettah Market is a bustling marketplace in Colombo where visitors can buy everything from fresh produce to clothing and electronics. The market is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is a great place to soak up the colours, smells and sounds of Colombo.

7. Take a tour of the Colombo Fort

The Colombo Fort is a historic site that dates back to the 16th century when the Portuguese first established a presence in Sri Lanka. The fort was later expanded by the Dutch and the British, and today it is a commercial and administrative hub of the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fort to learn about its rich history.

8. Relax at a rooftop bar

Colombo has many rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the city’s skyline. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail or two at one of these bars while taking in the sights and sounds of Colombo.

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Colombo is a vibrant city that offers visitors a wide variety of experiences. From exploring the city’s historic landmarks to indulging in its delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in Colombo. Use this step-by-step guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.