Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Nestled along the banks of the Maha Oya River, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for orphaned and injured elephants. Established in 1975, the facility provides visitors with a rare chance to observe these gentle giants up close, from bottle-feeding baby elephants to watching them bathe and play in the river. It’s an educational and heartwarming experience that showcases Sri Lanka’s deep cultural connection to elephants and efforts in wildlife conservation.
Kandy City Tour and Temple of the Tooth Relic
Explore the last royal capital of Sri Lanka on a scenic city tour of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highlight is the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), where a revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha is enshrined. This beautiful temple, adorned with intricate carvings and golden roofs, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Buddhist world. The city tour also covers the serene Kandy Lake, colonial-era buildings, and lively local markets filled with traditional crafts and spices.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Located in Peradeniya, just outside Kandy, the Royal Botanical Gardens is a lush paradise spread across 147 acres. Once reserved for Kandyan royalty, the gardens now house over 4,000 species of plants, including orchids, palms, medicinal plants, and giant bamboo. Stroll along shaded paths, marvel at the towering Javan fig tree, or relax amidst vibrant floral displays. The gardens are a haven for nature lovers, botanists, and photographers alike.
Kandy Viewpoint
This panoramic spot, perched above the city, offers breathtaking views of Kandy and the surrounding hills. It’s a perfect place to pause and take in the tranquil beauty of the region, with the shimmering Kandy Lake, golden-roofed Temple of the Tooth, and misty highlands in the distance. Ideal for both day and dusk visits, the viewpoint is a must-stop for capturing unforgettable photos and reflecting on the charm of this hill capital.
Gem Shop / Wood Carving and Batik Shop
Sri Lanka is world-renowned for its high-quality gems, skilled artisans, and traditional crafts. A visit to a gem museum and showroom offers insight into the mining, cutting, and polishing processes of precious stones like sapphires and rubies. The wood carving and batik workshops showcase intricate craftsmanship, where visitors can witness artists create beautiful hand-carved items and vibrant batik fabrics using ancient techniques passed down through generations.
Geragama Tea Factory
Visit one of Sri Lanka’s oldest functioning tea factories, the Geragama Tea Estate, nestled in the cool hills near Kandy. Established during the British colonial period, this factory still uses traditional methods to produce Ceylon’s world-famous tea. A guided tour offers an inside look at the leaf plucking, withering, rolling, and drying process. You’ll also enjoy a tea tasting session while soaking in the scenic views of emerald-green plantations—perfect for tea enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.