From Kandy: Elephant Orphanage, Ambuluwawa & Tea Museum Tour

Discover the highlights of Kandy on a guided day tour. Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, climb the Ambuluwawa Tower, and visit the Ceylon Tea Museum. Enjoy a tea-tasting session and learn about the history of tea in Sri Lanka.

Begin your adventure with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel in Kandy. Enjoy the scenic drive as you head towards the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located about 1.5 hours from the city. This peaceful village offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness the majesty of Sri Lanka's elephants up close.

Upon arrival, explore the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which started in 1975 with the aim of caring for orphaned and injured elephants. Watch as the elephants bathe and play in the river, and stroll through the sanctuary where you can see these gentle giants up close. Learn about the conservation efforts and the history of the orphanage.

After lunch, continue your journey towards the Ambuluwawa Tower, located about 1 hour away. This is a unique and off-the-beaten-path attraction, famous for its panoramic views and a stunning mix of cultural and natural beauty.

Upon arrival, take a scenic walk through a small forest reserve to the foot of Ambuluwawa Tower, which sits atop a hill at 3,500 feet above sea level. The climb to the tower is a bit challenging but worth every step. The tower is a distinctive structure, combining Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic architecture.

At the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys. On clear days, you can even see as far as the distant towns of Kandy and Gampola.

Next, head towards the Ceylon Tea Museum located in the picturesque town of Hantana, just 30 minutes away from Ambuluwawa. The museum is a wonderful tribute to Sri Lanka's rich tea culture and history.

At the Ceylon Tea Museum, learn about the fascinating history of tea in Sri Lanka, from its introduction in the 19th century to its role in the country's economy today. The museum showcases the process of tea production, from plucking the leaves to packaging the final product. You can also view antique tea-related artifacts, machinery, and displays detailing the legacy of the island's tea industry.

After the museum tour, you'll be treated to a special tea-tasting session to sip on a selection of the finest Ceylon teas.