From Colombo: Kandy and Tea Plantations Day Trip
Active
7h - 14h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This one-day excursion offers a perfect blend of cultural landmarks and natural beauty.The scenic drive to Kandy takes around 3-4 hours, passing through lush countryside and mountainous terrain. Upon arrival, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful stroll around Kandy Lake, located in the heart of the city, offering serene views of the surrounding hills.
Next, explore the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, a lush paradise filled with exotic plants and stunning greenery. Then, head to a nearby tea plantation and visit a traditional tea factory. Learn about the tea-making process, from plucking leaves to brewing the perfect cup of Ceylon tea. Take a walk through the picturesque tea fields, where rolling hills.
After a full day of exploration, relax as you journey back to Colombo, taking in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s highland scenery.
Available options
From Colombo: Kandy and Tea Plantations Day Trip
Pickup included
What's included
Entry Ticket to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Driver Meals
WiFi on board
Bottled water
King Coconut Juice - Complementary
Entry Ticket to the Royal Botanic Gardens
Entry Ticket to the Ceylon Tea Museum
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses a relic of the Buddha. It is located in the Royal Palace Complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. Explore the temple complex, observe the daily rituals and ceremonies (if possible), and visit the museum inside the temple complex for more insight into its history.
2
The Kandy Tea Museum, located in the old Kandy British Tea Factory. Take a guided tour of the museum to learn about the history of tea and the role of tea plantations in Sri Lanka.
View old tea machinery and artifacts and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan tea-tasting experience. Sample various types of Ceylon tea and learn about the unique characteristics of each one.
3
Kandy Lake, located in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka, is an iconic destination surrounded by historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural significance.
4
For an elevated view of Kandy Lake and the city, head to the Kandy Viewpoint. It's located a short walk from the lake and offers great photo opportunities.
5
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, located about 5.5 kilometers from Kandy, is one of the most famous and beautiful botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. It spans 147 acres and is renowned for its extensive collection of plants, flowers, and trees, as well as its historical significance. Here’s what you can see and do at the Peradeniya Botanical Garden
6
The Kandy Gem Museum and Gem Center is an intriguing place for anyone interested in Sri Lanka's rich history of gem mining and jewelry craftsmanship.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
$167
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
