places to visit in kandy town

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Places to Visit in Kandy

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Tourist Places in Kandy

Here are some of the best tourist places to visit in kandy:.

Perandeniya Botanical Gardens

Peradeniya Gardens is a spacious 147 acre of natural extravaganza consisting of more than 4000 species of plants, and 10,000 varied kinds of trees, incidentally serves as the largest garden of Sri Lanka. The unique and rarest collection in these gardens is the Giant Bamboo of Burma which grows 12 inches each day to a height of 40 meters. Apart from this other amazing collections include Javan fig tree, Cannonball tree, Double Coconut Palm and about 200 other varieties of palm trees and versatile collection of flora.

The Peradeniya Botanical Garden is one prime tourist attraction of hill country and remains quite flooded with tourists every weekend. One can pack some food to enjoy an open air picnic here or can relish the cafeteria inside serving local and western cuisine.

Kandy Lake, created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, is a picturesque and serene spot in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Adjacent to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, the lake offers a tranquil retreat with scenic walking paths, lush surroundings, and historical charm. Go for a tour on the Kandy lake with your friends and family for an incredible experience! 

Top Experiences To Do in Kandy Lake

Udawattekele Sanctuary

The Udawattekele Sanctuary, also known as Royal Park Palace is located at the hilly terrains of the Temple of Tooth Relic. The sanctuary scatters around 257 acres and is deemed as the most important Bio Reserve of the country. The sanctuary, centuries back was a kingdom named Kandyan and jungle area on the far side of the palace was known as the Uda Wasala Watta or the upper palace garden; hence the name.

The forest reserve was made into a sanctuary in 1938. Additionally, the forest’s catchment areas provide fresh water to the lake and the city avail its air purification supplies from this royal forest reserve.

Ceylon Tea Museum

Located at Hantane, the 1925 vintage Ceylon Tea Museum is one of the important attractions of the hill country, Kandy in Sri Lanka. The Tea Museum is a building of four floors where from ground floor to second floor it’s all old machineries, library and auditorium. For purchasing lip smacking variety and flavors of Sri Lankan tea one must visit the third floor which is sales unit. The fourth floor comprises of a magnificent restaurant where one can enjoy a free cup and the captivating and breathtaking surrounding view of the hill country from the top. One can visualize Matale Range and Kunckles Range through a telescope positioned here. From the top it’s an encircling view of green landscape comprising tea plantations of myriad types.

 Location : Hantane Road, Kandy

Best Time : Tuesday – Sunday, 8:30am to 4: 30pm

Price : 1070LKR for adults and 428LKR for child.(approx)

British Garrison Cemetery

This striking European style graveyard has many stories to tell of the young souls who died during the British Colonisation of SriLanka. The most heartfelt part of this beautiful old churchyard is the 163 graves of young men, women, and children that take us back to time immemorial. Most of the tombs have inscriptions written on the lives of these good souls (few brave soldiers, many infants, and land owners).The cemetery was established in 1817 and today is being nurtured by a Caretaker, Charles Carmichael.

National Museum of Kandy

The building that houses the National Museum of Kandy was earlier known as the Palle Vahala and was home to the royals. The building’s architecture is pure Kandian and it stores about 5000 artifacts from the Kandian era including weapons, utensils, jewelry, etc. This is the best place to learn about the history of Kandy, the hidden gems and resources of Sri Lanka. 

Commonwealth War Cemetery

This cemetery is maintained and served by the commonwealth war commission office. This graveyard is a humble reminder of those brave hearts of the country who sacrificed their lives protecting the nation’s honour during the World War II. The cemetery is beautifully kept and has over 190 tombs. Apparently, this place was initially known as Pitakande Military Cemetery and was owned by the Military authorities until it was taken over by the war Commission.

It is also noted that Army Graves from over 10 burial grounds have been transferred to this cemetery till 1958. There are 6 commonwealth war cemeteries in Sri Lanka, but the Kandy War Cemetery is considered the best amongst all because of its stunning landscape and well kept land.

Kandy View Point

The mesmerizing view point is located on the Rajapihilla Mawatha and is ranked 5th out of 105 tourist attractions in Kandy. The place is located near the Kandy Lake and is enclosed in breathtaking landscapes of mountains and meadows. From the city, you have to take the Rajapihilla Mawatha Route, after which a 1 km steep climb will guide you to the view point. You can also hire a tuk-tuk to reach the top.The panoramic view that you would get to see is worth the pain of the ascent. The entire Kandy town lies ahead of your eye, and from the top, you can also spot the Kandy lake and Dalada Maligawa.

Lankatilaka Vihara Temple

The Lankatilaka Temple or Lankatilaka Vihara is one of the most ancient Buddhist temples. It’s unique architecture is known across the world. What makes this temple famous is the fact that it is built on a base of a natural rock called the Panhalgala Rock and stands stable even today.

There are two different sides of the temple- the East and the West- both showcase the intricate designs and delicate Sinhalese sculptures. You will also find some breathtaking paintings and sculptures of the Kandyan era in this temple.

International Buddhist Museum

Located close to the Temple of the Tooth, inside the royal palace complex, The International Buddhist Museum is a complete knowledge base and a showcase of the spread of Buddhism throughout Asia. There are separate rooms dedicated to different countries illustrating Buddhism in that location. There are photographs, models and gigantic statues which portray the spread and influence of Buddhism on people in various places.

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Nestled close to the Udawattakele Sanctuary, The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is one of the most important shrines of Sri Lanka. Also named as Dalada Maligawa, this temple is based in the royal palace of the Kingdom of Kandy.

Housing the legendary Budda tooth, the temple is a World Heritage site though very little are the remnants of the original temple built around 1600. Amazing ornamentation with golden fence and extravagant Canadian architecture makes it a blissful sight for the visitors.

Dedicated monks unanimously chant the prayers of Malwatte and Aegirine, three times every day, during dawn, noontime and evening at the inner temple. Every Wednesday a holy symbolic bath of the Relic is done is fragrant water and that water is distributed among the visitors known to have healing powers.

Location:  Royal Palace, Kandy

Timings:  5:30 AM to 8:00 PM

Horton Plains National Park

Horton Plains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka's central highlands. It features stunning landscapes of montane grasslands and cloud forests. Major attractions include World’s End, a dramatic cliff with panoramic views, and Baker’s Falls. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including the Sri Lankan sambar deer and numerous endemic bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Top Experiences To Do in Horton Plains National Park

Huluganga Falls

Huluganga Falls, located in Sri Lanka, is a captivating natural wonder. Nestled amidst lush greenery, the waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs, creating a picturesque scene. 

Spice Garden

Spice Gardens in regions like Matale and Kandy, in Sri Lanka, offer an immersive experience of the island's rich spice heritage. Visitors can explore lush plantations, learn about the cultivation and uses of spices such as cinnamon and cardamom, and witness traditional Ayurvedic practices. These gardens provide a sensory delight, combining education with the aromatic allure of fresh spices.

Top Experiences To Do in Spice Garden

Royal Palace Of Kandy

Kadugannawa Tea Factory

The Kadugannawa Tea Factory, nestled amidst the picturesque hills of Sri Lanka's central region, stands as a testament to the island nation's rich tea heritage. Perched at an elevation, the factory offers visitors a captivating journey into the art of tea production.

Temple Of The Truth

Nestled close to the Udawattakele Sanctuary, The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is one of the most important shrines of Sri Lanka. Also named as Dalada Maligawa, this temple is based in the royal palace of the Kingdom of Kandy. Housing the legendary Budda tooth, the temple is a World Heritage site though very little are the remnants of the original temple built around 1600. Amazing ornamentation with golden fence and extravagant Canadian architecture makes it a blissful sight for the visitors. Dedicated monks unanimously chant the prayers of Malwatte and Aegirine , three times every day, during dawn, noontime and evening at the inner temple. Every Wednesday a holy symbolic bath of the Relic is done is fragrant water and that water is distributed among the visitors known to have healing powers.

Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

This place showcases a breathtaking view of the entire Kandy town. The 88ft high statue of Buddha is something one should not miss while in Kandy. The white statue can be seen from any part of the Peradeniya city as it is strategically located on top of the Bahirava Kanda (devil’s) hill. You can either climb the steps to reach the viewpoint or else hire a tuk-tuk to do so. The beauty of the statue doubles during the night when it is lit by lamps. Best hour to visit this place is early morning or after sunset.

Millenium Elephant Foundation

MEF is an estate as vast as 15 acres and is dwelling to countless of majestic elephants. The name of the estate, Samragiri has been inherited from the Samarasinghe family who have lived here for many generations. It is the only foundation where visitors are allowed to ride elephants bare back and interact with them with safety measures in the form of a educational tour. The foundation also provides a special Elephant Walk where you would be taken a 30 minute walk along with the animal.

MEF has charity trusts for the welfare of these humble animals.

Highlights: One hour educational walk and a tour of the museum, personally bathing the elephants, exotic walk on the grounds of the estate with an elephant, entry to Maximus Dung Paper factory.

Tea Estate Trails

Waking up early in the morning and being served the finest bed tea by the butler will be a delight in itself. The tea planter will take you through the entire tea making process starting from the fields where the tea was first plucked and then taken to the factory where all the conversions take place. The tea trails will take you to the colonial era time. The afternoon cream tea is something to truly relish. The nearby places are an appropriate place to walk, cycle and biking.

Price: The approximate price ranges from 484 LKR to 1626 LKR.

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23 Best Places To Visit In Kandy, Sri Lanka In 2024

• Last Updated: August 20, 2024
• Asia , Destinations , Sri Lanka

In this post, I’ll be sharing with you my pick of the best places to visit in Kandy. These include some of the obvious main sights, such as the famous Temple of the Tooth, Royal Botanic Gardens, and Kandy Lake.

Table of Contents

But I’ve also included some genuine hidden gems that I only learned about from my local friends, like the Knuckles Forest Reserve and Victoria Reservoir.

Why Visit Kandy?

Kandy is a beautiful and vibrant city in the central highlands of Sri Lanka.

It’s the second-largest city in the country and is known for its rich history, unique culture, majestic temples, scenic mountain views, and serene nature reserves.

Most tourists only spend a night or two here before jumping straight on the famous scenic train to Ella . However, there are so many fun and interesting things to do in Kandy.

I’d definitely recommend sticking around to get to know the city a little better. It’s my favourite city in Sri Lanka, and I’ve been there twice now.

🤩 Short for time? Check out this excellent (and good-value) full-day tour of Kandy’s most famous sights

23 Best Places to Visit in Kandy, Sri Lanka

No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, Kandy has something perfect for you. It’s definitely somewhere that I could see myself living at some point.

Here’s my pick of the best things to do and places to visit in Kandy.

1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Temple of the Tooth, for short) is one of the most important places to visit in Kandy.

It houses a canine tooth of Lord Buddha himself and is an extremely sacred place for Buddhists. Thousands of devotees and tourists visit the Temple of the Tooth every day.

The temple itself is housed inside a wider complex known as the Sacred City of Kandy . This used to be the royal capital of the former Kingdom of Kandy.

The complex is surrounded by a 19th-century white stone parapet and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site that also includes the Royal Palace complex.

The Sinhala people have long believed that possession of the sacred tooth relic is vital to the governing of Sri Lanka. It is said to symbolise spiritual power and authority.

You can witness the daily rituals and ceremonies at the temple, which are mesmerizing. Once a week (on Wednesdays) the relic is also symbolically bathed in water mixed with herbs and flowers.

Inside the temple, you’ll find a large golden shrine, which houses the tooth, surrounded by other shrines filled with offerings.

Visiting the Temple of the Tooth is one of the most iconic things to do in Kandy – don’t miss it.

Price: 2,000 LKR ($6 USD) for foreigners (separate admission fees for foreigners and locals is fairly common in Sri Lanka)

Note: You can pre-book your entrance tickets here to skip the long queue at the entrance. However, this ends up costing more than twice as much, so I’d only recommend it if you’re very pressed for time.

Opening times: 5:30 am–8 pm, Mon–Sun

Location: 7JVR+CG Kandy, Sri Lanka

2. Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya (One of my Favourite Places to Visit in Kandy)

5 kilometres southwest of the centre of Kandy, in the district of Peradeniya, lies the Royal Botanic Gardens . It’s a lush oasis that offers a wonderful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Founded in 1821 and covering 147 acres, it’s one of the largest and best-maintained botanic gardens in all of South Asia.

The Royal Botanic Gardens is home to over 4,000 different species of plants from all over the world. It has an amazing collection of trees, shrubs, flowers, spices, and plants (including an interesting section full of medicinal plants).

The gardens are also a haven for wildlife, including monkeys and many species of birds.

As soon as you step into the gardens, you’re greeted by an impressive array of palm trees. From here, take your pick from a number of tranquil paths that wind through the trees.

I recommend picking up a map from the entrance gate. The gardens are pretty big and there are many different areas to explore.

Guided tours are also available in both Sinhala and English that cover all aspects of the gardens. I didn’t bother with this and just set out by myself with a map.

One must-see section of the gardens is its Orchid House, where you can admire over 300 species of rare and beautiful orchids.

Other highlights include cacti collections, avenue trees planted by British colonists in the 1870s, the Arboretum, the Fernery, and the Spice Garden.

Each section of the garden has its own unique charm. There’s something new and amazing to discover around each corner.

There’s even a suspension bridge across the Mahaweli Ganga River that links the gardens with the Gannoruwa district. It’s narrow and very wobbly, but fun as long as you’re not too afraid of heights!

Allow at least a couple of hours to see the Kandy Royal Botanic Gardens properly. I spent an entire afternoon there and it was fantastic. This is definitely one of my favourite places to visit in Kandy.

Price: 2,000 LKR ($6.50 USD) Tourist price

Opening times: 7:30 am–5 pm, Mon–Sun

Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Colombo – Kandy Rd, Kandy 20400, Sri Lanka

🤩 This is a fun 6-hour tuk-tuk tour of Kandy (includes the Botanic Gardens)

3. Kandy Lake

Kandy Lake is one of Kandy’s most iconic landmarks. It’s serene, peaceful, and known locally as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk.

It was constructed in 1807 by the last king of Sri Lanka, Sri Wickrama Rajasingh to improve the local irrigation system.

Today, Kandy Lake is a scenic and enchanting spot in the heart of the bustling city. It’s also home to a large number of water birds and other wildlife.

You’ll probably notice the small island in the middle of the lake. According to local legend, it once housed the king’s summerhouse and was connected to the palace by a secret underwater tunnel.

Taking a leisurely walk along the banks of the lake is one of the best free things to do in Kandy. There are benches dotted around the shore where you can sit and take in the tranquil views.

The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and many of Kandy’s most important buildings, including the Temple of the Tooth and the former Royal Palace of Kandy.

And as day transitions into night, the lake takes on a magical charm, with the beautifully lit cityscape reflected in its still waters.

Price: Free

Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka

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4. Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a lush forest reserve located right next to the centre of Kandy. It’s basically a slice of jungle in the heart of the city.

Amazingly, the entrance is only 500 metres from the main Kandy Road and a 15-minute walk from Kandy Lake. However, as soon as you step into the jungle, it’s like you’ve been transported to an entirely different place.

This is a great place to visit in Kandy for nature lovers – the sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity. It has a wide variety of plant species, including giant liana vines and tropical shrubs.

It’s also home to many different mammals, snakes, other reptiles, insects, and numerous bird species – including eagles, parrots, parakeets, and kingfishers.

There are several fantastic hiking trails and paths, allowing you to immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of the dense forest.

Keep an eye out for the little Buddhist temples, caves, shrines, and hermitages that are scattered throughout the reserve.

Note: you’re not allowed to take plastic items (including plastic water bottles) inside the sanctuary. There’s a place where you can leave bags at the entrance ticket office.

Also, a warning: leeches can be a problem during rainy periods, so I recommend wearing covered shoes if you plan to visit then. They’re not in any way dangerous. But they are pretty unpleasant and rank among my least favourite creatures.

Price: 900 LKR ($3 USD)

Opening times: 8 am–5 pm, Mon–Sun

Location: Forest Department Office, Sangamitta Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka

🤩 Check out this full-day waterfall swimming & hiking tour from Kandy

5. Royal Palace Park (Wales Park)

Royal Palace Park, also known as Wales Park, is a small but picturesque public park located on a hilltop above Kandy Lake.

Due to its elevation, the park offers great views over Kandy, the lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and the surrounding hills. It’s particularly enchanting at sunset when the city is bathed in a warm, golden glow.

The park itself is an oasis of landscaped gardens, with colourful flowers, plants, and mature trees. It’s a popular spot for picnics and you’ll probably see local families and friends of all ages relaxing here.

One of Royal Palace Park’s most distinctive features is its Japanese field gun. This relic from the Second World War is displayed prominently in the centre of an ornamental pond

Take a leisurely walk through the greenery, or sit in the shade and enjoy the clean air and the panoramic views.

Price: 150 LKR ($0.50 USD) (it’s not always enforced)

Opening times: 8 am–5 pm, Mon–Sun

Location: 7JRP+4W5, Rajapihilla Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka

6. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue (Sri Maha Bodhi Maha Viharaya)

The Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue (or Big Buddha) is an iconic Kandy landmark that’s hard to miss.

Perched atop Bahirawa Kanda Hill, this majestic statue stands at an impressive 88 feet, making it one of the largest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. You can see it from all over Kandy.

It was constructed in 1972 and depicts Buddha seated in the Nirvana pose, symbolising his first Enlightenment.

From the centre of Kandy, it takes about 20-30 minutes of steep uphill walking (or a 5-10 minute tuk-tuk ride) to get to the bottom of the steps leading up to the giant Buddha statue.

It’s definitely worth the effort to get here though. From up here, you get spectacular panoramic views of the entire city and the surrounding mountains.

Note: The statue is part of the Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya Buddhist temple, so you need to cover your knees and shoulders to enter.

Price: 600 LKR ($2 USD)

Location: 7JWJ+5GR, Bahirawa Kanda Rd, Kandy, Sri Lanka

🤩 Fancy doing some white water rafting near Kandy ?

7. Kandy View Point (Arthur’s Seat)

Kandy View Point is another spot that offers fantastic views of Kandy. It offers a different aspect of the city and is a bit easier to reach than the Big Buddha statue (although I think both places are worth visiting).

From here you can clearly see landmarks like the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake, and the Big Buddha. It’s a great spot to get a bird’s eye view of the city’s unique blend of urban bustle and natural beauty.

In the morning, the city awakens under a soft, golden light. By afternoon, the city is abuzz with activity, while the evening brings a serene ambience as the city lights begin to twinkle.

Reaching Kandy Viewpoint involves a short climb, but there are plenty of benches where you can sit, relax, and soak in the scenery along the way.

Location: 20000, Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka

8. Ceylon Tea Museum

Tea plays an important role in Sri Lankan culture. If you’re a tea lover or simply curious about Sri Lanka’s rich tea history, a visit to the Ceylon Tea Museum in Kandy is a must.

Housed in a former tea factory, this museum showcases the history and heritage of tea production over the years, from traditional methods to modern machinery.

Each floor of the building is dedicated to a different aspect of tea production, providing a comprehensive look at the industry’s past and present.

You’ll learn about the various stages involved in making tea, from growing and maintaining the bushes to harvesting, blending, and then packaging the finished product ready for sale and export.

One of the museum’s highlights is a collection of antique tea processing equipment, some of which date back to the 1800s. These artifacts offer a fascinating glimpse into the intricate process behind your daily cup of tea.

Here you can also sample a variety of Ceylon teas. Each one is totally different, and I was really taken by the variety of flavours and aromas on offer.

There’s a shop too where you can buy some top quality Sri Lankan tea to take home with you.

Price: 750 LKR ($2.50 USD)

Opening times: 8:30 am–4 pm, Tue–Sun (closed Monday)

Location: Hantana Rd, Sri Lanka

🤩 Check out this awesome mountain biking tour through the tea plantations above Kandy

9. Commonwealth War Cemetery

The Commonwealth War Cemetery in Kandy is a poignant and solemn reminder of the enormous sacrifices made during World War II.

Nestled amidst lush greenery, this immaculately maintained cemetery honours the memory of soldiers from the Commonwealth nations who were laid to rest here.

Each grave is marked with a simple white headstone inscribed with the soldier’s name, rank, and regiment. The headstones are neatly arranged in rows surrounded by manicured lawns and vibrant flowers.

What struck me most about this place is the diversity of the soldiers buried there. The graves are of servicemen from many different countries, backgrounds, and religions. It really highlights the global impact of the war.

The grounds are peaceful and serene, making it an ideal spot for reflection and remembrance. The well-tended gardens, the chirping birds, and the tranquil setting all contribute to an ambiance of calm and respect.

There are also several historical markers and plaques around the cemetery, which provide information about the individuals who died during this dark period of history.

Opening times: 7 am–4 pm, Mon–Sun

Location: 7JJ5+P85, Kandy, Sri Lanka

10. Kandyan Cultural Centre (& Kandyan Art Association)

Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture at the Kandyan Cultural Centre.

Located in the heart of Kandy, this centre is dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional arts, crafts, dance, and music. It’s a real cultural hub and offers a great taste of the country’s rich heritage.

One of the centre’s main highlights is its daily cultural show. This mesmerizing performance features traditional Kandyan dances, live music, drumming, and acrobatics.

Each dance tells a story, and provides a fantastic insight into Sri Lankan culture, its customs, traditions, folklore, and rituals that have been passed down for centuries.

Also, don’t miss the Kandyan Art Association next door. This showcases a variety of local arts and crafts, including exquisite batik prints, intricate wood carvings, and delicate lacework.

In addition to performances and exhibits, the centre offers workshops where you can try your hand at various crafts. Whether it’s carving a wooden mask or painting a batik cloth, these sessions offer a unique, hands-on experience.

Price: 2,000 LKR ($6.50 USD)

Opening times: 9 am–5 pm, Mon–Sun

Location: 72 Sangaraja Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka

🤩 Hungry? This is a highly-reviewed private street food tour in Kandy

11. Hanthana Mountain

The city of Kandy is located in a natural bowl surrounded by mountains. The large 7-peaked mountain range that lies due south of the city is called Hanthana.

It’s an environmental protection area and a popular spot with hikers and nature lovers. There are several hiking trails, of various difficulties, winding through lush forests, past freshwater springs, and up to peaks offering breathtaking views.

From these vantage points, you can take in panoramic vistas of Kandy city, the surrounding countryside, and on clear days, even the Knuckles Mountain Range (see below).

Most tourists don’t make it up here, but it’s a favourite among locals and features in various Kandyan folklore.

If you have the necessary gear , you could even camp out on one of the peaks under the starry night sky. I didn’t get the chance to do this during my time in Kandy, but a couple of people told me that it’s a great thing to do if you can.

To get to the best hiking areas, first, head up to the Ceylon Tea Museum (above). Then continue along Hanthana Road away from the direction of Kandy (i.e. south), passing through the tea plantations.

The road continues climbing uphill. Keep an eye out for the hiking trails on your right-hand side. Maps.me has the main trails marked – I recommend downloading this before you set off to prevent you from getting lost.

Stick to the well-made paths and beware of leeches during rainy periods…

Price: Free (excluding transport to get there)

Location: Hantana – Uduwela Rd, Sri Lanka

🤩 If you’d prefer a guide, this is a good private guided hiking tour of Nanthana Mountain (includes transport)

12. National Museum of Kandy

The Kandy National Museum offers a fascinating journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history. Housed in the former Royal Palace of Kandy, this museum is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and cultural relics.

The museum’s collection spans several centuries, showcasing items from the Kandyan Kingdom through the British colonial period to the present day.

You’ll find an array of exhibits, including weapons, royal regalia, traditional clothing, artwork, coins, and intricate jewelry. Each artifact tells a story, offering insights into the country’s past.

One of the museum’s highlights is the display of royal attire, which showcases the opulence of the Kandyan royalty.

Another standout exhibit is a collection of traditional Kandyan drums, providing a glimpse into the island’s musical heritage.

The museum also houses an impressive collection of antique furniture, giving you a sense of the living standards of the royals and nobility.

Opening times: 9 am–5 pm, Tues–Sat (closed Sun–Mon)

Location: 7JVR+8VW, Kandy, Sri Lanka

13. Gadaladeniya Temple (Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Viharaya)

The Gadaladeniya Temple, located on a hilltop near Kandy, offers a captivating blend of history, architecture, and spirituality. Built in 1344, this ancient temple is one of the most significant Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.

The temple complex has a unique architectural style, influenced by South Indian designs. The main shrine, built entirely of granite, houses an impressive seated Buddha statue.

Intricate carvings adorn the temple’s wooden doors and stone pillars, reflecting the craftsmanship of the era.

Within the complex, you’ll also find four smaller shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities, symbolizing the religious harmony that existed during the period.

Another highlight is the dagoba (i.e. stupa) which features a distinct design influenced by Dravidian architecture.

Price: 300 LKR ($1 USD)

Opening times: 7 am–8 pm, Mon–Sun

Location: Gadaladeniya Paranapattiya Rd, Sri Lanka

🤩 Check out this fantastic Sri Lankan cooking class in Kandy

14. Embekke Devalaya (Embekka Dewalaya)

The Embekke Devalaya is a Hindu temple built in the 14th century by King Vikramabahu III. Interestingly, this temple is dedicated to Kataragama Deviyo, a deity revered by both Buddhists and Hindus.

It’s famous for its stunning wooden architecture and intricate wood carvings, considered among the finest examples of such craftsmanship in Sri Lanka.

The Drummers’ Hall, or Hevisi Mandapaya, features an array of beautifully carved wooden pillars. Each pillar is decorated with detailed motifs, including dancers, wrestlers, mythical creatures, and floral designs.

Despite their age, the carvings retain their intricate detail, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich artistic heritage.

In addition to its architectural beauty, the temple also holds a significant place in local folklore. It’s associated with various legends and traditions.

Location: 210/e, Embekka, Handessa, Kandy 20480, Sri Lanka

15. Lankatilaka Temple

The Lankatilaka Temple is another striking example of traditional Sinhalese architecture. Constructed in the 14th century during the reign of King Bhuvanekabahu IV, this temple is an important site for Sri Lankan Buddhists.

The building has high walls that resemble a fortress, and the interior is decorated with intricate frescoes and carvings. At the heart of the temple is an impressive seated Buddha statue.

Another interesting aspect of Lankatilaka is its fusion of Buddhist and Hindu religious elements. Apart from the main Buddha shrine, the temple also houses shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities.

Location: 6HM7+JX7, Daulagala, Sri Lanka

🤩 Want to visit Sigiriya too? This is an excellent day tour to Sigiriya from Kandy (also includes the Dambulla Cave Temples)

Also, see my post on the 16 Best Things To Do In Sigiriya .

16. Aluvihara Rock Cave Temple

Located 28 kilometres north of Kandy, in the hills near Matale, the ancient Aluvihara Rock Cave Temple dates back to the 3rd century BC.

It’s believed that this is the site where the Buddhist scriptures, known as the Tripitaka, were first written down in Sri Lanka on palm leaves. It’s an important site for Buddhist pilgrims who come here to offer prayers.

As you explore the temple, you’ll discover a series of rock caves adorned with vibrant murals and Buddha statues. Each cave tells a different story from Buddha’s life or the history of Buddhism, depicted through art.

The Hell Cave features graphic depictions of hell to serve as a reminder of the consequences of immoral behavior according to Buddhist teachings.

Another noteworthy feature is the library, which contains ancient palm-leaf manuscripts and statues made out of various materials.

Location: FJXC+3PV, Thotagamuwa, Sri Lanka

17. Degal Doruwa Raja Maha Vihara

The Degal Doruwa Raja Maha Vihara is another sacred Buddhist rock temple located near Kandy.

One of the most striking features of the temple is its stunning murals. These intricate paintings are very colourful and depict various Buddhist Jataka stories (tales about the previous lives of the Buddha).

Within the temple, you’ll also find several beautiful Buddha statues. In the main shrine room, there is an 18-foot-long reclining Buddha and murals showing a number of pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka, including several places in Anuradhapura .

Price: Free (donations are appreciated)

Location: 55 Sirimalwatta – Amunugama – Madawala Rd, Sirimalwatta, Sri Lanka

18. Kandy City Centre

Located in the heart of Kandy, next to Kandy Lake, Kandy City Centre (popularly known as KCC) is a modern indoor shopping mall spread across 3 levels.

It’s a popular spot with locals of all ages and contains a wide range of retail outlets, from local boutiques to international brands.

Whether you’re looking for clothes, electronics, books, or unique souvenirs, you’re likely to find what you need here.

The mall also features several jewelry stores, offering exquisite pieces crafted from Sri Lanka’s famous gemstones.

Kandy City Centre also has a food court with a good selection of different cuisines, a supermarket for grocery shopping, and a modern cinema ( KCC Multiplex ).

KCC isn’t a typical tourist destination in Kandy. But I like that it gives a genuine insight into everyday life in the city. Given its convenient central location, it’s well worth stopping by.

Opening times: 10 am–9:30 pm, Mon–Sun

Location: Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka

🤩 This is a great-value day tour to Nuwara Eliya from Kandy

19. Knuckles Forest Reserve (My Favourite Place to Visit Near Kandy)

The Knuckles Forest Reserve (or Knuckles, for short) is another place that most tourists don’t get to see.

Several Sri Lankan people I met told me that it’s their favourite place in the country and that I had to visit. So I did, and wow. It’s utterly spectacular.

Named after the Knuckles Mountain Range, which resembles a clenched fist, this place is a real paradise of rugged peaks, deep valleys, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls.

It’s also a biodiversity hotspot, home to many endemic species of flora and fauna.

I spent two days exploring the Knuckles Forest Reserve and fell in love with the place.

Here you’ll find a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, each offering a unique perspective of its stunning beauty. The hike to Deanston Mini World’s End is one of the more accessible ones.

However, it’s mandatory to have an official guide if you want to go deeper into the reserve, regardless of your experience level. This is partly for conservation reasons, but also partly due to the area’s vastness and the risk of getting lost.

I recommend spending at least one night here to give yourself enough time to enjoy it properly.

Nomi and I stayed at Glamping by Offtrek and it was honestly one of the most special, memorable places we’ve ever spent the night.

The guys there were so hospitable, the food was delicious, and the views from our Geodome were unreal. In the morning, they took us on a hike up to see a hidden waterfall before cooking us an incredible breakfast. 5-star service.

If they’re full, try Wild Glamping Knuckles which offers a similar setup.

Both of these places can organise a guide to take you on longer treks into the mountains. Just ask in advance if this is something you want to do.

If you have your own transport, you can drive all the way up to Saree Ella Waterfall , via Huluganga Waterfall .

However, DO NOT take this “road” if you don’t have a 4×4. We did this in our rented tuk-tuk and almost destroyed it. The “road” is barely more than a rocky track and there are steep drops in many places.

Funny in hindsight, but quite stupid.

Another leech warning: the main downside to the Knuckles Mountains is the leeches. Without leech socks and an effective leech remover (e.g. a mixture of Dettol and vinegar in a squirty bottle), you will be eaten alive while hiking.

Buy leech socks here!

🤩 This is a great full-day guided hike in Knuckles (includes transport to/from Kandy)

Or, if you’d prefer to do an overnight trip , check out this highly-reviewed guided hike in Knuckles (includes 2 nights’ accommodation and all meals)

20. Pallekele International Cricket Stadium

The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is a state-of-the-art venue located 13 kilometres east of Kandy. With a capacity of 35,000, it’s one of the largest and best cricket stadiums in the country.

Inaugurated in 2009, Pallekele (also known as Kandy Stadium) has hosted numerous international cricket matches, including World Cup games.

Pallekele is known for its lively pitch, making games exciting and unpredictable. The stadium is also nestled amidst lush green hills, providing a gorgeous backdrop to the on-field action.

There weren’t any matches on here during the times that I visited Kandy. But I’d love to go one day. I went to a game in Galle and it was fantastic.

If you get the chance to watch a cricket match here, it’ll be an amazing experience I’m sure. Sri Lankans love cricket and the atmosphere is always great.

Matchday ticket prices: 300–6,500 LKR ($1–21 USD)

Opening times: 8 am–6 pm, Mon–Sun

Location: 7PJC+7X8, Kandy-Mahiyangane-Padiyatalawa Hwy, Pallekele, Sri Lanka

🤩 Check out this day tour to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa from Kandy

21. Nelligala International Buddhist Centre

Perched on a hilltop near Kandy, the Nelligala International Buddhist Centre is a modern temple that was opened in 2015.

Primarily a centre of Buddhist teaching, it was built to be a symbol of unity and peace among all nations and religions.

The temple has an ornate gold stupa, a giant gold bowl containing a sacred bodhi tree, several golden statues of Buddha, and a statue of Sumana Saman (a traditional Sinhala deity) riding a white elephant.

There are various shrines, libraries, meditation halls, and accommodation facilities at Nelligala.

The centre hosts a range of educational and cultural programmes, workshops, lectures, ceremonies, and retreats, including many on Buddhism and philosophy.

Its hilltop location also offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a perfect spot for contemplation and meditation.

Visiting the Nelligala International Buddhist Centre is an enriching experience. Whether you’re interested in Buddhism, seeking spiritual solace, or simply want to enjoy the serene environment and stunning views, Nelligala is well worth a trip.

I’d like to go on an intensive meditation retreat here at some point.

It takes about 30 minutes to get to Nelligala from Kandy by road.

Location: Nelligala Rd, Sri Lanka

22. Victoria Dam & Victoria Reservoir

This is another place that I only heard about via a local.

The Victoria Dam is the tallest dam in Sri Lanka and powers the country’s largest hydroelectric power station. It was completed in 1985 and plays a vital role in Sri Lanka’s sustainable energy production.

The Victoria Reservoir, created by the dam, is a haven for wildlife. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers stunning views with a backdrop of rolling hills.

I drove past here on the way to Arugam Bay on the east coast. I didn’t have time to do a hike, but it’s a beautiful and scenic place.

Location: Victoria Reservoir, Sri Lanka

🤩 Travelling to Arugam Bay? Check out this 3-day tour from Kandy to Arugam Bay (via Sigiriya and Minneriya National Park )

Here are 8 of the best national parks for going on safari in Sri Lanka .

23. Ranawana Purana Rajamaha Viharaya Temple

One more temple on this list. (As you’ve gathered, there are lots of temples in and around Kandy!)

Ranawana Purana Rajamaha Viharaya Temple is home to the world’s tallest walking Buddha statue, which stands an impressive 80 feet high.

The statue, with its serene expression and intricate detailing, exudes a sense of peace and spirituality that permeates the entire complex.

The temple grounds also house several other statues and structures depicting various scenes from the life of Buddha.

These include the Jathaka Katha Mandapaya, which illustrates the 550 Jataka tales through beautifully crafted sculptures.

It’s located just past the suburb of Kiribathkumbura, a 15-minute drive from the centre of Kandy.

Location: 7HC7+JM8, Ranawana Temple Rd, Pilimathalawa, Sri Lanka

Best Restaurants in Kandy

Kandy is home to some fantastic restaurants. Here are a few of my favourites.

This amazing little place is tucked away down a backstreet behind the KCC shopping complex. They do delicious vegan food (I’m not a vegan but the food here is superb).

Try the jackfruit burger and the pumpkin soup.

Mandiya is consistently voted among the best restaurants in Kandy. The rice and curry here is some of the tastiest I’ve ever eaten, and it’s super popular with both locals and tourists alike.

The dishes on offer change daily, but try the mango curry if they have it. Prices are also super reasonable.

Balaji Dosai

After spending time in Jaffna , I found myself craving Tamil and South Indian food on a fairly frequent basis when I got back to Kandy. Balaji Dosai hit the spot perfectly.

Their masala dosas, chutneys, and dal vada (lentil fritters) are all excellent.

My favourite cafe in Kandy. Buono serves fantastic coffee, juices, teas, and a range of tasty food.

One time I was there, a couple of guys started randomly playing acoustic guitars, and a woman with a beautiful voice joined in to sing. Really friendly vibes here. I love the aesthetic of the place too.

If you’re looking for a cheap, authentic local place to eat in Kandy, check out Kuma Place . It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but trust me, the food here is delicious, especially their vegetable rotis and parathas.

There’s an open kitchen and you can watch food being prepared over an open fire. It’s a little bit out of the centre (20 mins walk), but I liked this place so much I came back twice.

How to Get to Kandy

Kandy is a major city located near the centre of Sri Lanka . It’s fairly easy to get there using various modes of transport.

Public buses tend to be the cheapest way to get to Kandy. You can get a direct bus to Kandy from a number of major towns and cities around the country, including Colombo , Trincomalee , Jaffna, and Dambulla (near Sigiriya ).

Remember to bring cash for purchasing bus tickets onboard.

You can take the train to Kandy from Colombo , Hatton, Nanuoya (near Nuwara Eliya), Ella , and Badulla. Try to book tickets well in advance as they tend to sell out.

Sometimes it’s possible to book Sri Lankan train tickets online on 12Go Asia . And sometimes it isn’t – I’ve never managed to figure out why (!) but it’s worth a try.

The train journey between Kandy and Ella is one of the most scenic in the world. It’s not exactly a secret. However, most tourists take the train from Kandy to Ella. Far fewer take it from Ella to Kandy.

My advice: take the train from Ella to Kandy, not from Kandy to Ella. Same track, same train, same views. But about 90% fewer tourists hanging out of the doors trying to get that Instagram photo.

If time is a constraint and budget isn’t a concern, taxis (and sometimes Ubers) offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel to Kandy.

Always agree on a price in advance, and ask at your accommodation for guidance on fair prices if you’re not sure.

If you’re coming straight from Colombo airport, the easiest way to get to Kandy is to book a private transfer .

Joining a tour is another way to visit Kandy. This option can be particularly attractive for those with very limited time, although this is likely to be the most expensive form of transport.

🤩 This is an amazing 7-day tour of Sri Lanka’s “Cultural Triangle”

Or, if you have less time, check out this 2-day tour of Sri Lanka’s hill country

Hiring a tuk-tuk and driving yourself is an exciting and ultimately flexible way to explore Sri Lanka.

If this is something you want to do, I recommend booking with Tuk Tuk Ceylon Ride . They have excellent customer service, low prices, and will sort out all of the necessary paperwork and permits for you in advance.

Alternatively, take a look at  this well-reviewed tuk-tuk rental company .

Where to Stay in Kandy

Kandy is a popular tourist destination with a huge range of accommodation options, from simple guesthouses to luxury hotels and everything in between.

Whatever your budget, you shouldn’t struggle to find a good place to stay in Kandy.

I’ve personally stayed at, and can highly recommend, Skyloft Kandy . It’s located high up in the hills above Kandy and has amazing views out over the city.

This great mid-range hotel has a beautiful rooftop bar/terrace, comfortable rooms, and the manager is super helpful and accommodating.

I’ve also stayed at City Breeze Residence , which is an excellent budget guesthouse/homestay surrounded by lush greenery. I saw a toucan and several monkeys here in the trees next to the upper terrace.

It’s a 30-minute walk (or 10-minute tuk-tuk ride) from the centre of the city. The owners are very kind and plied me with delicious homemade food during Sri Lankan New Year. There isn’t any A/C here, but it’s very affordable.

If you’re looking for something high-end and exclusive, The Theva Residency is one of the best luxury hotels in Kandy. It has stunning views of the mountains, an outdoor pool, and a sauna and hammam.

Alternatively, for the ultimate luxury getaway in the mountains, check out the GreenAcres Leisure Resort . It’s located a little way away from Kandy, but wow. Just look at the views from this place – I had to include it!

🤩 Click here to check prices and availability of all other Kandy accommodation on Booking.com

FAQs About Visiting Kandy

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about visiting Kandy.

What are the most beautiful places in Kandy?

There are many beautiful places in Kandy. Some of my favourites include the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kandy Lake, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, and the nearby Knuckles Forest Reserve.

Is Kandy worth visiting?

Yes, Kandy is definitely worth visiting! It’s a beautiful city filled with culture, history, and has an amazing natural setting in the mountains.

In fact, Kandy is my favourite city in Sri Lanka. I could easily live here.

What is Kandy famous for?

Kandy is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. It’s also famous for being the last capital of the ancient Sinhalese Kingdom that ruled Sri Lanka until 1815.

Is Kandy better than Colombo?

Kandy and Colombo are totally different. I prefer Kandy, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference.

Kandy is smaller, more laid-back, and much more scenic. It’s also located in the mountains and has a slightly cooler climate.

Colombo on the other hand is a large, modern capital city on the coast. There’s more going on in Colombo , but it lacks the intimacy of Kandy.

How many days are enough for Kandy, Sri Lanka?

You could see most of the top places to visit in Kandy in around 3 days.

However, if you’ve got a week to spend here, that’d be more relaxing. You’d be able to take your time and get a much better sense of the place.

Is Kandy or Ella better?

Kandy is a city; Ella is a small town (it’s more of a large village really). They’re both popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, but there’s no easy answer to which is better.

It depends on the type of experience you’re looking for and what sort of things you want to do. There are more things to do in Kandy than in Ella .

What is the best time to visit Kandy?

The best time to visit Kandy is from December until May when the weather is mostly dry, sunny, and pleasant.

October and November tend to be Kandy’s wettest months, although rainfall is fairly common from June onwards.

You can still visit Kandy during the rainy season, although outdoor activities won’t be as fun, and you probably won’t be able to do much hiking.

Is one day in Kandy enough?

One day in Kandy is enough to get a small taste of the city. You’ll be able to visit some of the most famous sights in Kandy, such as the Temple of the Tooth, the Royal Botanical Gardens, and Kandy Lake.

However, it’s not really enough time to see more than that. I’d recommend staying for longer if you can.

Is the Temple of the Tooth worth seeing?

Yes, the Temple of the Tooth is worth seeing. It’s one of the most sacred places in the world for Buddhists and is one of Sri Lanka’s most important historical sites.

🤩 This is an excellent full-day tour of Kandy’s most famous sights

Final Thoughts

Kandy is a fantastic city and somewhere that I’d love to return to. It offers a great mixture of culture, history, food, and natural beauty.

My favourite places in Kandy are the Royal Botanical Gardens, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, Kandy Lake, and Buono Cafe. The nearby Knuckles Forest Reserve is also epic.

I also just really like the vibe of the city. It’s laid-back, friendly, and just big enough to be interesting, but not so big that it’s overwhelming.

I sometimes find myself imagining living in a house in the hills above Kandy. A house with big windows and a terrace overlooking the city. It’s an image that comes back to me fairly often. Maybe I’ll do it one day!

Essential Travel Resources

🛏️   Book cheap hotels

I always use Booking.com to find the best deals on hotels. Vrbo is great for short-term apartments.

🚗  Find cheap rental cars

Check both Discover Cars and Rentalcars.com to find cheap rental cars.

🌍  Book the best tours

Viator and GetYourGuide  have a huge selection of tours in virtually every destination worldwide.

✈️  Find cheap flights

I use a combination of Skyscanner and Google Flights to find cheap flights. 

Airalo is my favourite travel eSIM provider – I’ve used it in over 10 countries and really rate it. So much easier than buying physical SIM cards when you travel!

🚑   Do I need travel insurance?

YES! Never travel without adequate travel insurance. It’s just not worth the risk.

• SafetyWing – if you’re a digital nomad like me, SafetyWing is super flexible and affordable. You can sign up for as little or as long as you want, and activate and deactivate it whenever you need to. I’ve made several claims in the last few years and thoroughly recommend this company.
• World Nomads – for  adventurous travellers , covers 200+ activities that many other insurers won’t, such as  skydiving, heli-skiing,  rock climbing, rafting, scuba diving, cliff jumping, and kiteboarding (not available for residents of every country – check here ).

💻  Do I need a VPN?

YES! Always use a VPN whenever you use public WiFi (in airports, cafes, hotels, stations, etc.). This helps protect your personal information and also bypasses internet censorship and restrictions in certain countries. I use NordVPN and highly recommend it.

Alex Tiffany

I believe in transparency: Please note that some links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you purchase something through them, I might earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. (For example, a s an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through some of these links.)  However, I only link to products and companies that I trust and honestly recommend. See my  disclosures page for more information. The income goes towards keeping this site up and running. Thanks for your support.

Found your guide on Google. I must say that you’ve written a very informative travel guide on Kandy.

Thank you, glad you like it 🙂

Regardless of what kind of experience you seek, Sri Lanka has something for you. Having spent my childhood in Kandy, your post reminds me of those times I spent growing up in the city.

I’m glad! 🙂

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• 27 Places To Visit In Kandy In 2024 – Sri Lanka’s Spiritual Capital

Sri Lanka – the island nation in South Asia – is indeed a pearl of joy shining brightly in the heart of the Indian Ocean. The lazy charm of clinging onto the hills and floating by the gushing waves makes Sri Lanka a perfect destination to venture, explore, and contemplate. Snuggled between the imposing mountains and verdant peaks are some of the best places to visit in Kandy  that are defined by calmness and serenity. So, go around and discover eternal comfort as you plan a much-awaited trip to Sri Lanka.

Places To Visit In Kandy

Wondering what are the best places to visit in Kandy? Kandy has no dearth of places when it comes to exploring this beautiful hill station. With plenty of attractions and must-visit places in Kandy, here are the top common as well as uncommon places to visit in Kandy. From museums to viewpoints, there is something for all kinds of travelers. Take a look!

• Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – An Experience Worth Relishing
• Temple Of Tooth Relic – For Spiritual Enlightenment
• Kandy Lake – Best Place To Stroll Around
• Hulu River Waterfall – A Sight To Behold
• Knuckles Mountain Range – Hiking And More
• Bahirawakanda Temple – For Spiritual Seekers
• Ranweli Spice Garden – Natural Surprises
• Royal Botanical Garden – A Colorful Affair
• Udawattekele Sanctuary – More Than Just Greenery
• Commonwealth War Cemetery – Learn The Legendary History
• Millennium Elephant Foundation – An Educational Tour
• Horton Plains National Park Ohiya – Witness The Wildlife
• Ceylon Tea Museum – A Paradise For Tea Lovers
• Riverton Gap – Trekking And More
• Highlands – Lose Yourself Amidst Nature
• Galmaduwa Temple – Witness The Awe-Striking Structure
• Ranawana Purana Rajamaha Vihara – For History Lovers
• Pallekele Cricket Stadium – A Must-Visit For Sports Fans
• Giragama Tea Plantations – Absorb The Calm
• Kandy Viewpoint – Be Mesmerized
• Lankatilaka Temple – Marvel At The Structure
• Hanthana Mountain Range – Hiker’s Paradise
• Royal Palace Of Kandy – Legacy & Heritage
• Degaldoruwa Temple – Oldest Buddhist Cave Temple
• Ambuluwawa Tower – For a mile-high view
• International Buddhist Museum  – For Knowledge & Fulfillment
• Gadaladeniya Vihara – For A Deep Sense of Calm

1. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – An Experience Worth Relishing

Image Credit: SamanWeeratunga for Shutterstock

This one's considered amongst the best places to visit in Kandy for couples, family, friends, and solo. Plan a day out with wild Asian elephants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This is a popular breeding ground for 90-plus elephants who stay in their natural habitat. Watch these adorable elephants bathe, play around, and feed them fruits. Tourists can see them when they tour the orphanage to see the majestic animals. If you are in Kandy visiting places, then this spot is perfect if you want to have a small picnic along with your friends or family. Pinnawala is the place where abandoned and injured elephants are raised. The elephants have mahouts who give them baths and proper food on a timely basis. If you’re looking for natural bathing places in Kandy, then this is it!

Entrance Fee:  INR 1300 Famous For:  Wildlife tours

Must Read: Places To Visit In Gampola 

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2. Temple Of Tooth Relic – For Spiritual Enlightenment

Image Credit: Krishantha Piyanandana for Wikimedia Commons

Considered one of the most important temples of Buddhists in Sri Lanka, the Temple of Tooth Relic is located to the north of Kandy Lake and is one of the most remarkable places to visit in Kandy Sri Lanka. The sacred tooth of Lord Buddha enshrined in the temple makes it one of the popular Kandy tourist places. The room housing the tooth is open to devotees to offer their prayers. However, nobody gets to see the tooth because it is kept in a golden casket inside a stupa-like structure. The temple is housed in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. One of the best places to see in Kandy, this temple is of great importance due to the belief of the country in the tooth. The temple has rituals thrice a day. The temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The temple still stands strong even after facing attacks twice, making it among the best places of interest in Kandy.

Entrance Fee:  INR 1500 Famous For:  Architecture

3. Kandy Lake – Best Place To Stroll Around

Image Credit: Ji-Elle for Wikimedia Commons

Adjoining most of the popular tourist places in Kandy and eateries with lake views, the Kandy Lake is certainly among the best places to visit in Kandy, Sri Lanka. An ideal place to spend hours during your lazy vacation, the lake offers stunning nature views around it and is a perfect romantic sojourn for a romantic couple visiting the place. The lake. also known as the Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is an artificial lake with an island in the middle, making it a beautiful place to explore. Entrance Fee:  INR 1500 Famous For:  Leisure walking trails

Suggested Read:  Sri Lanka Honeymoon Guide

4. Hulu River Waterfall – A Sight To Behold

Image Credit: ID 12019 for Pixabay

30 km from Kandy into the quiet town of Dumbara lies Huluganga Falls on the Hulu River. The river originating from the scenic Knuckles Mountain Range is the perfect escape to leave the onlookers awed. The 75-meter high waterfall, located in the Dumbara town, is a true beauty enclosed by nature allure. And it’s no wonder that Hulu is considered as one of the popular Kandy places to visit! The Huluganga Falls still maintains its pristine condition because of its natural setting. When visiting places in Kandy, make sure you add this one to your itinerary. Tourists will enjoy the numerous rocks present in the bed of the waterfall. If they are feeling adventurous they can click pictures sitting on them. When looking for places to visit near Kandy, then don’t forget to stop by this majestic waterfall.

Entrance Fee:  No entry fee Famous For: Nature Walks

5. Knuckles Mountain Range – Hiking And More

Image Credit: Cherubino for Wikimedia Commons

This is one of the top places to visit in Kandy Resembling the shape of a knuckle of a clenched fist from the top, the Knuckles Mountain Range is probably one of the most scenic Kandy tourist attractions. The mountain Range in the region towards the northern end of Sri Lankan highlands (39 km from Kandy) is the place to be. Perfect place to try your hands-on adventure traveling, hiking, and camping, the Knuckles Mountain Range spans from Matale to Kandy and is a treat for nature lovers. Look around and embrace the wilderness brought to you by sprawling grasslands, jagged peaks, torrents of streams, and gushing waterfalls. The best view of the range is the thick clouds that gather in the higher Montane area. Hiking is considered to be one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka . So, if you are looking for one of the exclusive places to see in Kandy Sri Lanka to escape the cityscapes, just explore this destination.

Entrance Fee:  No entry fee Famous For: Wildlife tours

Suggested Read: Most Beautiful Places in Sri Lanka 

6. Bahirawakanda Temple – For Spiritual Seekers

Image Credit: Nalin Pushpakumara for Pexels

Just 1 km away from the Kandy city, the Bahirawakanda Temple is a major attraction and a distinct structure. The place is a popular attraction for Buddhists and there are quite a few international Buddhist relations meetings that are carried out here. This makes it one of the popular things to see in Kandy. The magnificent structure is huge and can be spotted from anywhere in the city. The place is also an important monastery where many Buddhist events do take place. The statue was started in 1972 and ended in 1993. You can take the steps to reach the top of the hill or you can take a tuk-tuk ride is all it takes to get to the temple premises. If you are traveling places in Kandy, don't miss this architectural wonder when you are in the city. People may actually see the Buddha statue from all around the city but it is a sight to visit it to see the beauty in an up-close-and-personal way. It takes about 200 LKR to visit the statue. If you are visiting Kandy in August , make sure you add it to your itinerary.

Entrance Fee:  INR 75 Famous For: Spiritual Observations

7. Ranweli Spice Garden – Natural Surprises

Image Credit: Michael Gunther for Wikimedia Commons

Enough of talks about spotting wildlife in their natural habitat! Time to spot greenery and exquisite plant varieties in their natural habitat. This Kandy tourist attraction is located in proximity to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden. Turmeric, Peppercorns, Cloves, Cardamom, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Cocoa, and Aloe Vera are the main plantations that are the highlights of this place. Visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Kandy for couples .

Learn about plantations, spices, natural products, and various techniques involved while cultivating it. Ranweli Spice Garden is the perfect escape from the hustle of city life. Vibrant history and lots of surprises await you at the Spice Garden.

Entrance Fee:  NA Famous For:  Botanical Garden

Suggested Read: Kandy Shopping

8. Royal Botanical Garden – A Colorful Affair

Image Credit: PublicDomainPicture for Pixabay

This place is counted as one of the best Kandy attractions. Spanning over 60 hectares, the Royal Botanical Garden is the largest and one of the best places to visit in Kandy with a hidden charm to explore. Situated in Peradeniya, the place is quite close to the Mahaweli River. Along with the most striking orchids, you can find more than 4000 species of plants in this Botanical Garden, making it one of the perfect tourist attractions in Kandy Sri Lanka. The garden is also an ideal place to plan a picnic with family and friends. However, romantic couples can be mostly seen hanging around the garden area. The cab drivers in Kandy mostly offer to cover the Botanical Garden along with Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage or the Kandy temple to make it a Kandy sightseeing tour. The park remains open from 7:30 AM to 5 PM. You can consider this as one of the amazing places to visit in Kandy for couples.

Entrance Fee:  INR 1500 Famous For: Nature Scene and Herbarium

9. Udawattekele Sanctuary – More Than Just Greenery

Image Credit: Hasindu2008 for Wikimedia Commons

Located at the hilly terrains of the temple of the Tooth Relic, this sanctuary served as the retreat for the Kandyan kings in the older times. Later, converted into a sanctuary, it is an important bio reserve of Kandy. The sanctuary is spread over 104 hectares and is primarily known for the different species of birds residing in it. Offering as many as 80 species of birds and animals like mammals and insects, it is one of the visiting places in Kandy. Along with the wildlife, you can also visit the three Buddhist forest monasteries present at this place. Another attraction is the three Buddhist cave dwellings. Tourists will love the thick forest cover of the area which looks beautiful in the monsoon months. If you are an animal lover and visiting Kandy, you must go here!

Entrance Fee: INR 30 Famous For:  Trekking

Suggested Read: Waterfalls in Sri Lanka 

10. CommonWealth War Cemetery – Learn The Legendary History

Image Credit: Kurun for Wikimedia Commons

This is one of those tourist places in Kandy that should be a part of your itinerary. This cemetery is maintained by the officers. By maintaining the place they pay tribute to the braveheart soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Second World War. There are six commonwealth war cemeteries that you must witness during your Sri Lanka tour , yet the one in Kandy is notable amongst all because of the praiseworthy scenic beauty.

Entrance Fee:  INR 180 Famous For:  Historic Tours

11. Millennium Elephant Foundation – An Educational Tour

Image Credit: Senthiaathavan for Wikimedia Commons

The place is located in Randeniya. This is the only place where tourists can ride on the elephant’s back and travel around the place, they are allowed to interact with them. The educational tour conducted by the organization is rendered helpful and amusing for the tourists as they can witness right in front of them the activities of the animals. This Foundation was established in the estate named Samragyi inherited by the Samarasinghe family.

Entrance Fee:  INR 2,000 Famous For: Wildlife Tours

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka A Must Visit Holiday Destination

12. Horton Plains National Park Ohiya – Witness The Wildlife

If you want to witness the most majestic wildlife of Sri Lanka , this is the place for you! This national park is a treat to travelers fond of the mystical beauty of nature. The valley is shadowed by the two mountains Kirigalpotta and Totapola; Sri Lanka’s second and third largest mountains. This place is often stated as World’s End because of the surprisingly formed waterfall, mist-filled lakes, and the variety of plants and animals found here. The wide variety of flora and fauna makes the place even more special. The ethereal feeling offered by the place becomes prominent, especially in the morning.

Entrance Fee:  INR 30 Famous For: Wildlife Tours

13. Ceylon Tea Museum – A Paradise For Tea Lovers

Image Credit: calflier001 for Wikipedia

The museum is located in Hantane the 1925 vintage tea museum was built on four floors and the first two floors consist of vintage tea-making equipment, machinery, libraries, museum. To taste the authentic Sri Lankan flavored tea. Visitors can savor a free cup of the tee to relish the flavor. This is one of the most amazing places to see in Kandy.

Entrance Fee:  INR 297 Famous For:  Tea Tours

Suggested Read: Cottages In Kandy

14. Riverton Gap – Trekking And More

Image Credit: Hermann for Pixabay

When looking for Kandy tourist places that are ideal for nature lovers and adventurers, a trip to the Riverton Gap is a must! This place is located a few kilometers away from the Matale town. It takes a few hours to reach from Kandy. The main attractions of this place include the scenic beauty and trekking. The two spectacular waterfalls present here, are Sera Ella and Bambarakiri Ella. To reach the waterfalls one must trek through the marvelous forest and witness the beauty.

Entrance Fee:  NA Famous For:  Adventure tours

15. Highlands – Lose Yourself Amidst Nature

Image Credit: Harshaniroshkumara for Wikimedia Commons

Situated in Nuwara Eliya along with the waterfalls the place consists of tea gardens. Tea-cultivating lands are a major attraction for tourists. It's a few hours' journey from Kandy. Travelers could enjoy the flavored beverage and appreciate the authentic taste. When searching for places to visit from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, then this site can be the best one!

Entrance Fee:  No entry fee Famous For:  Tea Cultivations

Suggested Read: Villas In Kandy 

16. Galmaduwa Temple – Witness The Awe-Striking Structure

Image Credit: L Manju for Wikipedia

This is one of the most prominent temples in Sri Lanka . As the Gal Oya development program commenced near the Ampara area, the ruined complex of Galmaduwa Temple emerged. It was then that this temple was established again and modernized into the Vihara complex. Because of this, you can find various recently constructed buildings here along with some age-old structures like Sandakada Pahana, Chatra stones, Korawakgala, and some giant pillars. This temple is lying on the road that connects Hingurana and Ampara.

Entrance Fee:  INR 555 Famous For:  Spiritual Landmarks  

17. Ranawana Purana Rajamaha Vihara – For History Lovers

Image Credit: AntanO for Wikimedia Commons

This too is an ancient temple in Kandy known for its glorious historical significance. This temple has been established amidst a lush green natural setting. This temple is considered to be one of the largest and most beautiful temples in Sri Lanka. There is a trail running through the temple that takes you to the forest. This temple has been established on the theme of Buddha's life and various significant scenarios of his life have been presented in the forest.

Entrance Fee:  INR 75 Famous For:  Historic Landmarks

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Ella 

18. Pallekele Cricket Stadium – A Must Visit For Sports Fan

Image Credit: Hasindu2008 for Wikipedia

This stadium is considered to be one of the most famous places in Kandy. It is also known by the name Muttiah Muralitharan International Cricket Stadium since July 2010 when the Central Provincial Council of Kandy declared the plan of naming it after the amazing cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan. However, the name has not yet been officially sanctioned. This stadium was built along Hambantota International Cricket Stadium for the 2011 World Cup. It was inaugurated on November 27th, 2009 and even became 104th Test Venue of the world. For all the cricket lovers out there, this will definitely be one of the best places to visit in Kandy city.

Entrance Fee:  NA Famous For: Sporting Memorabilia

19. Giragama Tea Plantations – Absorb The Calm

Image Source: Facebook

Tea plantations are common things in Sri Lanka. Kandy is no less when it comes to tea plantations and one of the best places to visit in Kandy is Giragama tea plantations. Giragaram is a pretty little town in Kandy that is known for its tea plantations. It offers much-needed peace and tranquility along with picturesque views that will leave your soul stirred. There are estates wherein you can walk and soak the views. Keep this on your list of places to see in Kandy for a refreshing experience as this place is one of the best visiting places in Kandy. This is also one of the best things to do in Kandy in Summer .

Entrance Fee:  NA Famous For: Tea Plantations

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Moratuwa In Summer 

20. Kandy Viewpoint – Be Mesmerized

Kandy is the heart of Sri Lanka and watching the gorgeous hill station from a height is not something everyone gets to witness, so don’t miss out on exploring the most beautiful places to visit in Kandy on your vacation. The viewpoint is located at a distance of 1.7 km from the city centre and the route to the viewpoint is equally mesmerizing. Carry your camera along for some Instagrammable pictures at this point which is one of the best places to visit in Kandy. It is also one of the top places for trekking in Sri Lanka .

Entrance Fee:  INR 180 Famous For: Panoramic Views

21. Lankatilaka Temple – Marvel At The Structure

Image Credit: BluesyPete for Wikimedia Commons

One of the best places to visit in Kandy is Lanka Talika temple which is very famous amongst the locals as well as tourists. Dedicated to Lord Buddha, the temple is the epitome of the rich history and culture of the beautiful city. The architecture is something you can marvel at and it is divided amongst three sections. Make sure you visit the temple as it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kandy at night.

Entrance Fee:  INR 112 Famous For:  Spiritual Landmarks

Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kandy

22. Hanthana Mountain Range – Hiker’s Paradise

Image Credit: Aquinas Silva for wikimedia commons

One of the most beautiful places in Kandy, Hanthana Mountain Range is every nature lover’s paradise. The mountain ranges are located on the outskirts of Kandy city and appeal to tourists as an amazing picnic and hiking spot. One can even enjoy the exhilarating views of the city from the top. Declared an environmentally protected area, the range consists of seven peaks, Uuara Kanda being the highest one. This is also one of the best visiting places in Kandy.

Entrance Fee:  No entry fee Famous For: Panoramic Views

23. Royal Palace Of Kandy – Legacy & Heritage

Image Credit: Cossde for Wikipedia

Royal Palace of Kandy is one of the historical Kandy tourist attractions that is mandatory to visit. Located north of the Temple of Tooth Relic, the palace is an exhibit of Kandy’s rich legacy and heritage. It was built by Vikramabahu in the 14th century. It was the last building to be built by a Sri Lankan king before British colonialism took over. You will fall in love with the impeccable architecture.

Entrance Fee:  INR 1,000 Famous For: Heritage Tours

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In November

24. Degaldoruwa Temple – Oldest Buddhist Cave Temple

Image Credit: Chamal N for Wikimedia Commons

Built by King Rajadhi Rajasinha, Degaldoruwa Temple is one of the oldest Buddist rock temples in Kandy. Undoubtedly, one of the best Kandy attractions, you should visit and admire the old colorful frescoes on the wall that tell a thousand stories. The cave inside the temple is excavated out of a rock and is known to be at least 12 m high. You should put this place on your itinerary if you happen to be visiting Kandy.

Entrance Fee:  NA Famous For: Spiritual Observations

25. Ambuluwawa Tower

Image Credit: Kaushiru90 for Wikimedia Commons

Visit here to see one-of-a-kind architecture that combines the styles of many regions and religions. This unusual and unusually beautiful tower can be seen from the Gampola Railway station. The tower is 48 meters tall and is conical at the top, which houses the stupa in it. Marvel at this delight of a tower when you visit Kandy. From the top of the tower, you can see 360-degree panoramic views of the hills and natural vegetation of the landscape.

Entrance Fee: INR 550 Famous For: Unique Shape and Style of Architecture

Suggested Read:   Places To Visit In Kandy For Couples

26. International Buddhist Museum

Image Credit: Felix Krohn for Wikimedia Commons

This is the world’s first International Buddhist Museum. Founded with help from 17 countries in South Asia, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, this museum houses vintage relics centered around the Buddhist faith. The museum is situated next to the National Museum of Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth Relic, this place used to be the palace of the erstwhile Kandian king. British colonizers turned it into its present form – a building in the style of Victorian architecture. The International Buddhist Museum houses a store of valuable information and scholarship.

Entrance Fee: INR 345 Famous For: Informative Outlook on Buddhism

27. Gadaladeniya Vihara

Gadaladeniya Viharaya, also known as Dharma Kirthi Viharaya, is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in Gadaladeniya in Kandy. The temple is said to have been founded as early as the 14th century. It is built in an amalgam style of Dravidian and Sinhalese architecture. The temple is constructed solely out of rock, except for the pillars. The central chamber contains an 8 ft high statue of Buddha in the enlightenment pose. The atmosphere at the temple is serene and peaceful.

Entrance Fee: INR 80 Famous For: Meditation

Suggested Read: Beach Resorts In Colombo

How To Reach Kandy

Image Credit: GOWTHAM AGM for Pexels

By air: Bandaranaike International Airport is the nearest airport to Kandy, located 104 km away. Cabs and buses make the easiest means of transport from the airport to Kandy.

By rail: Colombo Railway Station is the nearest railhead to reach Kandy Railway Station. The Colombo to Kandy train ride, offering great nature views, is one of the most scenic rides in the world.

Best Time To Visit Kandy

March-May: This is the ideal time to visit Kandy when the temperature remains around 26 – 28 degrees Celsius and conditions are ideal for planning activities and other excursions in and around the city.

December-April: This city has new Beauty to offer, the weather remains cool and satisfactory. Neither too cold nor too hot, absolutely perfect for travelers to enjoy the climate and the surroundings.

October-November: During this span of two months Sri Lanka goes through the intense monsoon phase which is not suitable for visitors to enjoy.

Further Read: 19 Photos That Will Make You Wish You Were In Sri Lanka Right Now!

Kandy, being an important spiritual city and a major tourist attraction in Sri Lanka, has a lot to offer. Its beauty has made people remain awestruck and spellbound, looking at the variety it has to offer to tourists is indeed serene and beautiful. What are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Sri Lanka today and do not forget to add the best places to visit in Kandy with family to your itinerary.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Cover Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Kandy

Can you do a day trip to Sigiriya from Kandy?

Yes, you could reach the bus station in Kandy before 7:30 AM. Ride on a direct bus to Sigiriya from Kandy. The journey will take around 3-4 hours.

Is 1 day enough for Kandy?

Yes, there are numerous places to visit in Kandy on a single day trip. Some of the places to visit in Kandy in one day are Temple of the Tooth Relic, Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake and more.

What are the special places in Kandy?

Some of the best places to visit in Kandy are - Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Udawattakele Forest Reserve, Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake, Riverton Gap.

What is Kandy famous for?

The city is known for being the last capital of the ancient Sri Lankan era of Kings. It is the religious as well as administrative city of Sri Lanka. It is famous for the Tooth Relic, which is considered to be one of the holiest places in Buddhism.

What is there to do in Kandy?

There are a range of things you can do in Kandy, like embark on a peaceful retreat to Ashburnham Estate, visit the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, and meditate at Nilambe Buddhist Meditation Centre, among other things.

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Tanishk Juneja

Experience the world through captivating stories of adventure and travel. As a senior content writer, I bring my passion for exploration to life, crafting tales that take you on a journey. With my words, you’ll feel the thrill of discovery and the joy of experiencing new cultures. Let me turn your imagination into a reality with stories that inspire you to explore and embrace the world.

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The BEST Kandy Itinerary: 10+ Places to Visit in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Kandy is the cultural home of Sri Lanka and is considered one of the most sacred places in the world amongst the Buddhist community.

Home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and famous botanical gardens, Kandy has been hailed as one of the top destinations in Sri Lanka thanks to its historical value.

It’s certainly an interesting city with everything wrapped into one: It’s chaotic, noisy, and vibrant, yet you don’t have to go too far to find peace and serenity.

But, you might be asking yourself “Is Kandy worth all the hype?” If you only have a few days in Sri Lanka, should you visit Kandy over other attractions in the hill country or the cultural triangle?

I spent 4 weeks in Sri Lanka, covering most of the country, and have highlighted the best places to visit in Kandy for adventure travelers, backpackers, families, and those looking to learn more about the history and culture of Sri Lanka.

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How Long to Spend in Kandy, Sri Lanka

While there are so many beautiful places in Kandy, how long you spend here depends entirely on how much time you have in Sri Lanka.

If you have less than 2 weeks and you’re in search of hiking trails and dreamy beaches, then give Kandy a skip altogether – yep, it wasn’t my favorite place to visit but you’ll love it if you’re looking for a true cultural and spiritual experience.

If you have 3 weeks (or more) in Sri Lanka , I recommend you spend one day in Kandy. This will equate to 2 nights as you’ll arrive on the afternoon of the first day, explore the best things to do in Kandy on the second, and leave early on day three.

Pro Tip: Knuckles Mountain Range is just outside the city and if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, it’s the best place to visit in Kandy. Unfortunately, I was unable to do it – keep reading to see why.

How to Get to the best places in Kandy

Whilst Kandy may be the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, it doesn’t have that massive city vibe. This makes it easy to visit the top tourist places in Kandy on a free walking tour, as I did.

Walking from one part of the city to the other allows you to see a side of Kandy that you may have missed otherwise.

You’ll walk through the streets as families go about their daily lives, you’ll watch as the locals play an intense game of street cricket, and you’ll pass school kids as they rush to their classes.

If you’re not too keen on walking, you could hail down a tuk-tuk and get a personalized tour of all the beautiful (and hidden) places in Kandy. This shouldn’t cost you more than 3 000 LKR ($15).

Either option is a fun way to explore Kandy like a local.

One Day Kandy Itinerary: The Best Places to Visit in Kandy Sri Lanka

Surrounded by lush mountains and tea plantations, there’s more to Kandy than meets the eye.

The city boasts some pretty impressive historical buildings as well as religious sites and is, of course, the starting point of the famous Kandy to Ella train ride.

I planned to visit the uncommon places in Kandy – you know, those hidden gems that are often missed by other travelers who are in search of Insta-worthy locations instead.

Unfortunately, there aren’t too many of these “off-the-beaten-track” places to visit in Kandy!

Below is my one-day Kandy itinerary but I’ve also included some of the other popular attractions that you might prefer.

1. Walk through Udawattakele Forest Reserve: The most uncommon place to visit in Kandy

• Cost: 650 LKR ($3.5) per person
• Time needed: 2 hours

Situated in the center of Kandy, and overlooking Kandy Lake, lies Udawattakele Forest, also known as the Royal Forest Park of Kandy. It’s a beautiful lush urban jungle at the heart of the bustling city.

It was once the King’s personal garden but has since been made open to the public, offering one of the best places to visit in Kandy.

You only need 2 hours to explore the forest, where you’ll walk beneath a thick canopy of trees and come across numerous monkeys and native bird species. There’s a viewpoint that overlooks Kandy Lake but most interesting was the cave I discovered by following a narrow path leading off the main trail.

Throughout the 4km trail, I came across a handful of other people, none of whom were tourists, so if you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Kandy, Udawattakele Forest is it!

How to get to Udawattakele Forest

Udawattakele Forest will be the starting point of your free walking tour of Kandy. I suggest you take a tuk-tuk to the entrance which is located here.

2. Visit Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue: The Best views of Kandy

• Cost: 250 LKR ($1.5)
• Time needed: 30 minutes

The Bahirawakanda Vihara Statue is one of the most famous places in Kandy and dominates the city’s skyline.

At 27m in height, it’s one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka and can be seen in all its might from just about anywhere in Kandy.

The views from the site itself are just breathtaking and overlook the Kandy cricket stadium, Udawattakele Forest, and Kandy Lake.

How to get to the Buddha statue

The Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha lies on the opposite side of Kandy to the Udawattakele Forest. It’s a 2.5km walk from the forest to this statue and the walk takes you through the city. The final stretch involves an uphill climb which can be quite tiring for some.

Alternatively, you can take a tuk-tuk.

Pro tip: You need to take off your shoes and wear a sarong to cover your legs before entering the statue premises.

3. Indulge in a delicious Sri Lankan meal

Phew, if you’re following this Kandy free walking tour, you would have walked over 6km’s already!

Reward yourself with a delicious lunch to keep you fuelled for the rest of the day!

I stopped at Nagalingam’s Bhavan, an amazing family-run restaurant in Kandy that serves up the best (and cheapest) local food.

Save this location because it was one of the best places I visited in Kandy.

How to get there

From the Buddha statue, make your way down the hill to Kandy Lake which is 1.5km away. En route, you’ll come across many local restaurants so pop in and order a Sri Lankan curry or Kottu Rotti.

As you get closer to Kandy Lake, you’ll notice the change in energy as the streets become more chaotic and the atmosphere, more cheerful.

If you’re as obsessed with local food as I am, you might want to check out these awesome food tours in Kandy!

• Kandy Private Street Tour where you’ll feast on 10 tastings of the most delicious meals. The highlight? Your guide will take you to the best local spots so you’ll have an authentic food experience in Kandy.
• Kandy Cooking Class that will take you to a local market to pick up supplies before walking through rice fields where you’ll source your own ingredients and prepare a delicious Sri Lankan curry.

4. Hang out at Kandy Lake in the heart of Kandy

• Time needed: 15 minutes

Built in 1807 by orders of the last King of Sri Lanka, Kandy Lake is an artificial lake sitting in the heart of the city.

You can purchase fish food from one of the vendors and feed the many fish that call the lake home. If you’re lucky, you’ll even spot huge monitor lizards swimming in the lake or basking in the sun.

If you’re up for some more walking, why not take a stroll along the path that encircles Kandy Lake. But, the main road runs alongside the walking path so it can get noisy with buses and tuk-tuks honking consistently.

READ MORE: The Best Beaches in Trincomalee

5. Temple of the Tooth Relic: The most sacred place to visit in Kandy

• Cost: 1 500 LKR ($8) per person
• Time needed: 1 hour

Right next to Kandy Lake lies Sri Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Tooth Relic. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most spiritual places to visit in Kandy, if not the whole country!

The stunning golden roof temple is home to the famous tooth of Buddha which is housed in the Royal Palace Complex.

How did Buddha’s tooth get there?

Well, it was initially smuggled into Sri Lanka way back when and was moved around the country before finding its new home in the famous temple in Kandy. It’s a spiritual place with religious fame and you need to show respect by covering your shoulders and legs.

As with Adam’s Peak pilgrimage in Dalhousie , Sri Lankans believe that they should visit the Temple of the Tooth at least once in their lifetime and many people make the long journey to Kandy just to step foot in the holy grounds.

Unfortunately, you can’t actually see the tooth itself as it’s hidden in a golden casket that’s heavily guarded. The temple has been attacked twice, once in 1989 and a second time in 1998, and so security is extremely high.

This scared tooth relic is one of the top tourist places in Kandy so if you’re not a fan of crowds, you might want to leave this off your itinerary.

6. Enjoy a beer at the Stag’s Head Pub in Hotel Casamara

After 6 hours of exploring all the best places to visit in Kandy, you’ll be exhausted and in much need of a drink!

Head to Hotel Casamara which has an awesome rooftop bar overlooking Kandy and treat yourself to an ice-cold Lion beer!

7. Watch the Kandyan dance: The most touristy thing to do in Kandy

• Cost: 1 000 LKR ($5)
• Time needed: 5pm-6pm

You’re going to have to force yourself out of the bar for this one (or stay, and give the Kandyan dance a skip – up to you!)

For a night of cultural dancing, enjoy the Kandyan dance which is a colorful show of acrobatics, dancing, and drumming. This is one of the most popular things to do in Kandy at night and is followed by a short firewalking performance.

Personally, I felt that the performance was a bit too long and repetitive, but it’s only an hour out of your day to support the community and enjoy the local art and culture.

Where to see the Kandyan performances

The Kandyan performances take place at various venues just a stone’s throw away from Kandy Lake.

Kandyan Art Association & Cultural Centre is the most popular of all the venues and attracts busloads of tourists. The performance starts at 17:00 and it’s right next to Kandy Lake.

Kandy Lake Club is a more intimate performance when compared to the above and starts at 17:00, but it’s about a 1km walk from Kandy lake.

Read More: Hiriketiya Beach – All You Need To Know About Sri Lanka’s Paradise

Other Popular Places to Visit in Kandy

If you followed my walking tour of all the places to see in Kandy, you’ll be exhausted by the end of the day!

Perhaps you have a bit more time and want to explore a few more Kandy attractions. Or maybe you want to swap the above locations for some other popular places to visit in Kandy.

Royal Botanical Gardens

• Cost: 2 000 LKR ($10)

The Royal Botanical Gardens or Peradeniya Botanical Gardens in Kandy is not only the biggest botanical garden in the country but also the oldest, dating back to 1371.

Home to over 5 000 species of flora and fauna, the gardens boast an impressive collection of orchids and other flowers. Also, keep an eye out for the giant fruit bats!

These botanical gardens are one of the top tourist attractions in Kandy where you can enjoy a tranquil setting amongst the trees so bring a picnic blanket and a book if you’re keen for some downtime.

But, if you only have a one day trip in Kandy, you would need to choose between the popular Botanical Gardens or the less-visited Udawattakele Forest. I opted for the forest and have no regrets!

The Royal Botanical Gardens are a 20-minute drive from the center of Kandy and you can easily hop on a local bus if you’d prefer not to pay for a tuk-tuk.

Head to the bus station at the Kandy Clock Tower and look for the bus to Pilimathalawa. Alternatively, just ask to say, “Botanical Gardens” and the locals will happily point you in the right direction.

Explore Tea Plantations

There’s no arguing that Sri Lanka is one of the biggest tea producing nations in the world and a visit to the county isn’t complete without exploring one of the many tea factories set amongst the lush green hills.

There are several tea plantations you can visit near Kandy, but if you plan on visiting Nuwara Eliya (which was my favorite place in Sri Lanka), I recommend that you rather tour the tea fields there as your Kandy itinerary is already jam-packed.

However, if you have more than one day in Kandy, and you’re not planning on traveling to other parts of hill country, then it’s best to visit a tea plantation from here.

Things to do in Kandy that require a day tour

Explore knuckles mountain range.

Home to cascading waterfalls, lush green hills, and rich in biodiversity and wildlife, Knuckles Mountain Range is one of the best places to visit in Kandy if you’re looking for a secluded outdoor experience.

Situated north-east of Kandy, just a thirty-minute drive from the center, you’ll need a full day to explore Knuckles Mountain Range which will include about 5 hours of trekking through the lush green hills.

It offers a variety of diverse and challenging trails (over 30 to be exact) so you’re guaranteed a thrilling experience away from the crowds. But, a guide is needed as the routes are not signposted and you can easily get lost.

How to plan your trip from Kandy

If you’re backpacking Kandy, this $40 fee for a guide & park entrance may be the deciding factor as to whether you include it in your Kandy itinerary or not.

I really wanted to spend the day hiking through Knuckles Mountain Range but, unfortunately, it had been raining non-stop for the days leading up to my visit to Kandy, and so I was told that it wasn’t a great time to go trekking.

If you only have one day in Kandy, you’ll have the choice of either trekking in Knuckles Mountain Range or exploring the other top attractions. Personally, I think I would have preferred Knuckles – if the conditions were right.

Pro tip: Many travelers opt for a day trekking in Horton Plains to World’s End. If you’re deciding between the two, Knuckles Mountain wins hands down!

Day trip to Sigiriya

If you’re wondering what to do in Kandy as you have a few more days to explore, then I highly recommend taking a day trip to Sigiriya.

Sigiriya is home to the famous Lion Rock, an ancient rock fortress north of Kandy. Overlooking Lion Rock is the stunning Pidurangala Rock which makes for an awesome sunrise hike with panoramic views.

I spent 3 days in Sigiriya and I highly recommend that you add a stop to this small village in your Sri Lanka itinerary. But, if time is not on your side, you may have to opt for a day trip from Kandy instead.

It’s a 2-hour drive from Kandy to Sigiriya and if you’re wanting to do this day trip, rather opt for a tour as public transport will take so much longer.

Check the best tour here.

Kandy to Ella Train

When you’re done exploring the best things to do in Kandy, it’s time to move on to your next destination in hill country.

The best way to get there? The famous Kandy to Ella train ride, of course!

It’s been hailed as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, and the thousands of Insta shots have attracted tourists in their numbers, deservedly so.

But, if you think you’ll easily find a window seat offering picturesque views of the valleys below or that you’ll get to hang out the doors with not a worry in the world, you’re in for a surprise!

The Kandy to Ella train gets packed! So much so that the excitement and rush to get on the train is often more memorable than the actual train ride.

The first train from Kandy to Ella departs at 08:47. Get there by 07:45 to secure tickets.

If comfort is what you’re after, you’ll need to pre-purchase your 1st or 2nd class train tickets here but otherwise, buy a third-class ticket from the Kandy train station.

Sitting with the locals in the back is the best way to experience the Kandy to Ella train!

Read More: Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak: Which is Better?

Best Time to Visit Kandy

The seasons in Sri Lanka are just down-right confusing and no matter when you visit, the weather is bound to be unpredictable.

October and November is the rainy season in Kandy and I can attest to that.

I traveled to Sri Lanka in October and Kandy had experienced heavy rains that month, except the one day I was there! I had struck it lucky and was able to continue with my Kandy free walking tour unaffected by the weather – it was actually scorching hot.

December to April is said to be the best time to visit Kandy as this is the dry season with no rain, but it’s also one of the most popular times to travel to Sri Lanka so be prepared for crowds.

READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE SRI LANKA PACKING LIST

Where To Stay in Kandy

If you’re only spending one day in Kandy, it’s best to book a hotel in the city so that you can easily explore these famous Kandy attractions.

But, just a 10-minute drive from the center, you’ll find gorgeous accommodation options on the hills, overlooking the city. Staying at one of these places offers an escape from the hustle and bustle, which you’ll need after a full day of exploring.

My personal favorite is Resident View Homestay , a beautiful family home just outside the center of Kandy where I spent 2 nights. It’s one of the most affordable places to stay in Kandy and the hospitality of the host was the highlight for me.

She made us the most delicious Sri Lankan food, gave insider tips on the best things to do in Kandy, and went out of her way to ensure we had a great time in her city, not to mention how comfortable the rooms were. Check the latest prices here.

Other options for places to stay in Kandy Sri Lanka

Backpackers in Kandy will love J Hostel . It’s a backpacker hot spot that provides comfortable and clean rooms at an awesome price. You’ll be treated to a homey atmosphere with friendly hosts. Check the latest prices here.

If you’re traveling on a budget but looking for more privacy than a hostel, look no further than Joyspring Hills . Not only is it the cheapest place to stay in Kandy, but the family who owns the homestay are the absolute kindest and selfless people you’ll meet. There’s also a bus stop right outside the property, making it easy to get to all the places in Kandy. Check the latest prices.

Looking for a mid-range place to stay in Kandy? E-stay Hanthana is great value for money. No kidding, just look at the pictures and you’ll understand why! The room is modern and stylish and even comes with a private balcony and incredible nature views. Check the latest prices .

Kandy has some pretty epic luxury accommodation and if you’re here on honeymoon or simply looking to treat yourself, look no further than Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa . This is the best place to stay in Kandy, no questions asked! You’ll be treated like royalty at this hotel which is hidden high up in the misty mountains about 15 km’s from Kandy. Take your pick of private villas with hot tubs and infinity pools – I can assure you that you won’t want to leave this place! Check the latest prices.

How To Get To Kandy

Kandy lies 3.5 hours from the capital city, Colombo. It’s well connected to all destinations in Sri Lanka using public or private transport and is a transit hub for many travelers.

Unfortunately, there’s no airport in Kandy and so air travel isn’t possible

Depending on your time, and budget, there are various ways to get to Kandy.

Private Transfer

I wouldn’t recommend that you drive in Sri Lanka. If you don’t want to use public transport, it’s best to book your transport with a taxi. Book your private transfer here.

The public buses in Sri Lanka are certainly a unique way to experience the country. But they’re a hit and a miss. I was pleasantly surprised when I got on my first bus to find it was air-conditioned and offered a direct trip to my destination.

But this was the first, and last!

The buses can get very crowded and you’ll sit squashed like a sardine with your bags on your lap! The buses also make numerous stops, and so the trip from Colombo to Kandy can take anywhere from 3 -4 hours.

The train ride from Colombo to Kandy isn’t quite as scenic as Kandy to Ella, but it’s extremely affordable and takes 3 hours. Check the train times here.

The train from Ella to Kandy is pretty long (6.5 hours), and it’s best to split it up by staying in Nuwara Eliya or Dalhousie. Check the train times and prices here.

The train from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy is 3.5 hours. Check times and prices here .

If you’re happy to sit 3rd class (which I did) there’s no need to prebook tickets. But, if you want a comfortable train ride in either 1st or 2nd class, you need to pre-book your tickets here .

Kandy, Sri Lanka: Nice place to visit but not the best

I enjoyed visiting Kandy. Being the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, I expected it to be a lot bigger and more chaotic than it was. But I was pleasantly surprised to find that it wasn’t as hectic as I imagined it to be.

But, Sri Lanka has so much natural beauty and if you’re deciding what to do and see in the country, I wouldn’t include Kandy as one of those bucket-list places to visit.

Have you been to any of these places in Kandy? Do you think it was overrated? Let me know in the comments below!

Planning your trip to Sri Lanka? These posts may help!

• The Ultimate 3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary
• Midigama Beach: Why You Should Stay & Surf Here (Not Mirissa)
• 24 Things I Wish I Knew About Backpacking Sri Lanka

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As always, views are my own!

Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

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Popular categories, 17 most spectacular places to see kandy sri lanka.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 17. July 2024 · In: Sri Lanka , Travel

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Kandy? Then you’ve come to the right place. I’ve compiled a list of all my favorite things to do in Kandy.

You’ll find Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, about 3 hours inland from Colombo, at 465 meters above sea level.

The island’s second-largest city is steeped in history and surrounded by a lush mountain chain, rugged peaks, manicured tea plantations and Sri Lanka’s largest river, the Mahaweli Ganga.

So whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture – these are the best places to visit in Kandy. 

🌟 Remember to always get insurance before you travel to Sri Lanka or anywhere else. SafetyWing is an affordable subscription travel insurance that you can purchase even after departure. Read my complete SafetyWing review here.

Article overview

My Kandy favorites

1. royal botanical gardens peradeniya, 2. ceylon tea museum, 3. bahiravokanda vihara buddha statue, 4. temple of the sacred tooth relic, 5. the royal palace of kandy, 6. wales park (royal palace park), 7. kandy lake, 8. traditional kandyan dance, 9. udawattakele forest reserve, 10. kandy national museum, 11. commonwealth war cemetery, 12. world buddhist museum, 13. kandy viewpoint (arthur’s seat), 14. hulu river waterfall, 15. pallekele international cricket stadium, 16. kandy to ella train journey, 17. knuckles mountain range, private driver, kandy guided tours, cinnamon citadel kandy, queen’s hotel, is kandy sri lanka worth visiting, best time to visit kandy, what is kandy famous for, what is the historical significance of kandy, is kandy or ella better, does kandy have beaches, remember to pin for later 😉, kandy sri lanka.

We only set aside two and a half days for Kandy and one of the days we spent in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa . I’m kind of a history nerd, so it was something I’d been looking forward to for quite some time. So that meant we had to cram a whole lot of sights into one and a half days in Kandy.

After what felt like forever on steep, windy roads coming from Pinnawala (but in reality, was probably more like one hour), we arrived In Kandy. After a quick stop at the hotel, we hit the town to soak up as much of Kandy as we could in the little time that we had.

I was quite surprised by how busy it was, not at all the calm green oasis I’d made it out to be in my head. People yelling, construction going on, crazy traffic, yes just like any other large Asian city.

So we hailed a tuk-tuk and headed for the Royal Botanical Garden, the best place to visit in Kandy .

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s a list of my favorite places to visit, experiences and resources:

🏨 Best hotel in Kandy: Cinnamon Citadel Kandy

🎫 Best Kandy city tour: Private tuk tuk tour

🌳 Best Kandy nature tour: Full-day private waterfalls tour

🌴 Best place to visit in Kandy: Royal Botanical Gardens

🛺 How to get around Kandy: Walk, tuk-tuk or private driver

✅ Travel insurance: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Best places to visit in Kandy

The Royal Botanical Garden is without a doubt the best place to visit in Kandy . At one time the entire 60 hectares of gorgeous gardens were only available to Kandyan royalty.

Today, however, everyone is welcome into what are the largest and most impressive botanical gardens in all of Sri Lanka. Located about 5.5km to the west of central Kandy, it’s easily reached by tuk-tuk or as part of a guided tour .

You might think the entrance fee of 1500 Rs is a little steep, but I say it’s worth it. Wandering around the calm and beautiful gardens was a welcoming change from the noisy city center.

Altogether the gardens include more than 4000 species of plants and attract around 2 million visitors annually. It’s renowned for its huge collection of orchids, but the highlight for me was definitely the royal avenue of palms.

As the palm tree enthusiast that I am, this was something I had been looking forward to for a while. And it didn’t disappoint! Another fun thing to see is the giant Javan fig tree on the great lawn. Covering 2500 sq meters, it’s a majestic sight.

I would set aside at least two hours here to really get to explore and enjoy the sights without having to rush.

Opening hours: Daily from 07:30 am to 17:00 pm.

Entrance Fee:  Non-resident adult 1500 Rs. / Child (younger than 12 years old)  750 Rs. / Student 1000 Rs.

The next stop on our Kandy adventure was an old tea factory from 1872, now turned museum. The drive up the steep hill was an interesting experience in itself. About halfway up I started doubting that we would make it to the factory at all.

The squeaky sound coming from the engine and a couple of close calls on the edge of the road didn’t seem too promising. But I have to give those tuk-tuk drivers some credit, they know what they’re doing. Anyway, we made it to the top and were greeted by some incredible views of the lush green hill country.

We learned that coffee was actually the island’s main crop up until the 1860s when a fungus killed most of the coffee plants. So the farmers had to diversify in order to survive. James Taylor, a Scottish man recently arrived from India, was put in charge of the new tea experiment.

By 1872 he had his own fully equipped factory and in 1873, his first teas were sold at a London auction. Taylor is today regarded as the reason the Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) tea industry was a success so early on. He’s got his very own museum inside the factory.

The tour of the factory was short but quite interesting. I had no idea that many different processes went into making tea. I thought it was merely a case of pluck and dry, but then again I’m not a tea drinker. At the end of the visit, you’ll get a complimentary cup of tea (no surprise there) and be encouraged to visit the different tea shops.

Opening hours: 08:30 am to 04:00 pm, closed on Mondays.

Entrance fee:  Non-resident adult 800 Rs. / children 400 Rs.

After about one hour of tea history and tasting, our driver convinced us that we should finish the day with sunset at the huge Buddha statue overlooking central Kandy. I’m so glad he did! The panoramic view from the top is just incredible, definitely one of the best places to visit in Kandy .

It’s a great little physical workout to climb to the top of the hill. I have to say I felt a little lazy when we whizzed by all the hikers in our tuk-tuk. But then again we got to enjoy the views sweat-free, as it still was quite hot out even at sunset.

One of the coolest things about this spot is that you can actually climb the stairs going up the back of the statue for an even better view of the city.

This was probably my favorite part of the day or… no, my second favorite after the palm trees. It was also the cheapest of all the attractions we visited, which doesn’t hurt. So this is definitely a must while in Kandy. Keep in mind that you ladies will have to cover your knees and shoulders, the entrance fee includes a sarong if you need it.

Opening hours: 24/7

Entrance fee: Foreign Nationals 250 Rs.

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, is famous for being the home of one of Buddha’s teeth. The temple is housed within the royal palace complex along with numerous other museums and temples.

Unfortunately, the temple was closed to the public due to some kind of ceremony, so we didn’t get to look inside. Apparently, it gets super crowded in there, and you’ll need some serious moves to actually get to see the casket.

Yes, that’s right you won’t be able to see the actual tooth. It’s kept in a gold casket shaped like a dagoba (stupa), which contains a series of six dagoba caskets of diminishing size.

The tooth relic plays an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic will rule the country. It brings millions of Buddhist pilgrims every year from all over the world, as it is regarded as the most sacred place in the Buddhist faith. Much thanks to the temple, Kandy was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.

🌟 Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is in this full-day guided tour , the Royal Botanical Gardens and a traditional Kandyan dance performance. This tour was one of the highlights of my time in Kandy.

Entrance fee:  2000 Rs. for adults / Children visit for free.

Opening hours:  5:30 am to 8:00 pm. 

The Royal Palace of Kandy was the residence of the Kandyan monarchs and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Upon entering the palace complex, I was immediately struck by the intricate architecture and design. The palace is a beautiful blend of Sri Lankan, Indian, and European influences, with intricate wood carvings, colorful murals, and ornate pillars.

One of the highlights of my visit was the Audience Hall, where the Kandyan kings held their court. The hall is adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from Sri Lankan folklore and history. I also enjoyed exploring the palace’s various chambers, each with its unique style and purpose.

The palace complex is surrounded by a beautiful garden, which is home to several ancient trees and a small lake. I found it to be a peaceful and relaxing place to stroll around and take in the beauty of the palace and its surroundings.

Another one of the best places to visit in Kandy is Wales Park, a beautiful and peaceful park located in the heart of the city. It’s a perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air.

The park is well-maintained and has a variety of trees, flowers, and shrubs. There are also several benches and picnic tables scattered throughout the park, making it a great spot for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon reading a book.

One of the highlights of Wales Park is the stunning view of the city and the surrounding hills. I always make sure to take a few minutes to admire the view and take some photos.

If you’re feeling more active, there’s a walking path that circles the park. It’s a great way to get some exercise and take in the beauty of the park at the same time.

One of my favorite things to do in Kandy is to take a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake. This man-made lake, located in the heart of the city, was created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. It’s a beautiful and peaceful spot that offers a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The lake is surrounded by a well-maintained walking path that’s about 3.5 kilometers long. As you walk, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills. There are plenty of benches along the way where you can sit and relax, and there are also a few small pavilions where you can take shelter from the sun or rain.

You’ll also pass by a number of interesting landmarks, including the Temple of the Tooth, the Royal Palace of Kandy, and the Kandy Garrison Cemetery. You can take your time and explore these sites at your own pace, or simply admire them from a distance.

The Kandyan dance is a captivating art form that has been passed down from generation to generation. It is a beautiful blend of rhythm, movement, and colorful costumes that tell stories of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

I was lucky enough to witness a dance performance at the Kandyan Cultural Centre. The dancers were dressed in stunning traditional costumes, and their movements were perfectly synchronized with the beat of the music.

The performance also included a display of traditional drumming, which added to the overall energy and excitement of the show. The drummers were skilled and passionate, and their rhythms perfectly complemented the dancers’ movements.

Udawattakele Forest Reserve is located just a short distance from the city center, but it feels like a world away. The reserve is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, including over 400 species of plants and dozens of bird species.

The trail winds through the trees, over streams, and up steep hills. Along the way, I saw monkeys swinging through the branches, colorful butterflies fluttering by, and even a few elusive lizards.

One of the highlights of the hike was the stunning view from the summit of the hill. From the top, you can see the sprawling city of Kandy, with the lake shimmering in the distance. If you have the time to venture outside central Kandy, Udawattakele Forest Reserve is definitely one of the best places to visit.

I wore my flip-flops like I always do while traveling, it wasn’t the ideal footwear for hiking in Udawattakele haha, so be sure to also add a pair of trainers to your Sri Lanka packing list .

Make your way to Kandy National Museum to learn more about the city’s rich history. Housed in the former palace of the Kandyan kings, the museum showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits that span centuries.

The exhibits were arranged in chronological order, starting from prehistoric times and moving on to the colonial era. The museum’s collection includes ancient weapons, traditional costumes, intricate jewelry, and religious artifacts, among others.

One of the highlights of my visit was the display of the throne of the last king of Kandy, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha. The throne was made of ebony and ivory and was intricately carved with scenes from the Ramayana.

Another interesting exhibit was the collection of traditional masks used in Kandyan dance performances. The masks were beautifully crafted and depicted various characters from Sri Lankan folklore.

The museum also had a section dedicated to the colonial period, showcasing the influence of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British on Sri Lanka. I was particularly intrigued by the display of colonial-era furniture and household items, which gave me a glimpse into the lives of the European colonizers.

Commonwealth War Cemetery, which is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers during World War II. The cemetery is located about 4 km from the city center and is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

The cemetery is home to the graves of soldiers from the British Empire who died during the war. The graves are beautifully maintained, and the cemetery is a peaceful and serene place to pay your respects to the fallen soldiers.

In addition to the graves, the cemetery has a memorial that lists the names of soldiers who have no known graves. The memorial is inscribed with the words “Their Name Liveth For Evermore” and serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.

Visiting the Commonwealth War Cemetery is a humbling experience that reminds us of the sacrifices made by soldiers during World War II. It is one of the best places to visit in Kandy for anyone interested in history or who wants to pay their respects to those who gave their lives for their country.

The World Buddhist Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and teachings of Buddhism, and it is home to a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings related to the religion.

The museum is spread over four floors, and each floor is dedicated to a different aspect of Buddhism. Visitors can learn about the life of Buddha, the spread of Buddhism across the world, and the different schools of Buddhism.

The museum has a collection of rare manuscripts and ancient texts related to Buddhism, which provide valuable insights into the religion’s history and teachings. Overall, the World Buddhist Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about Buddhism and its rich history.

Arthur’s Seat is a popular viewpoint at 550 meters above sea level, located southwest of Kandy Lake, just a 10-minute walk from the Royal Palace Park.

It is the highest point in Kandy where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the lake, the Temple of the Tooth, the Royal Palace of Kandy and the city center.

There’s a viewing platform from which you can marvel at the spectacular view. If you don’t feel like walking you can take a tuk-tuk all the way up to the platform.

Hulu River Waterfall, known amongst locals as the Huluganga Falls, is located about 25 km away from Kandy, and it’s a great place to spend a few hours enjoying the natural beauty of Sri Lanka. The drive is scenic, and I enjoyed seeing the lush greenery and tea plantations along the way.

The hike down was relatively easy, and it took me about 20 minutes to reach the waterfall. There were a few other people there, but it wasn’t too crowded, and I had plenty of space to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Hulu River Waterfall is included in this exciting Kandy Waterfalls Hunters tour . We had so much fun visiting a local village, a tea plantation, seeing rice paddies and 5 different waterfalls. We even got to enjoy a homemade Sri Lankan lunch and hotel pick-up/drop-off is included.

🌊 Check price & availability here >> Full-day private waterfalls tour

If you’re a cricket fan, you should visit the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium while in Kandy. It is a modern stadium with a seating capacity of 35,000 and is located about 7 km from the city center.

The stadium is known for its picturesque setting, surrounded by hills and lush greenery. It has hosted several international cricket matches since its inauguration in 2009, including the 2012 ICC World Twenty20.

If you’re lucky enough to catch a match at the stadium, you’ll be able to witness the passion and excitement of Sri Lankan cricket fans. The atmosphere is electric, with fans waving flags and cheering on their team.

Even if there isn’t a match scheduled during your visit, you can still take a tour of the stadium and learn about its history and architecture. The tour includes a visit to the players’ dressing rooms, the media center, and the VIP boxes.

If you’re looking for a scenic train ride in Sri Lanka, the Kandy to Ella train journey is a must. The train ride takes approximately 6 hours and covers a distance of 116 kilometers. It’s a slow and leisurely journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Sri Lanka.

The train passes through lush green tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The scenery is breathtaking and it’s no wonder that this train ride is considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.

The train journey is divided into three classes – first, second, and third. I opted for the first class which was very comfortable and still affordable compared to Western prices. The seats are cushioned and there’s enough legroom to stretch your legs. The windows are large and can be opened to let in the fresh mountain air.

Throughout the journey, vendors come aboard selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. It’s a great opportunity to try some of the local delicacies such as samosas and vadai.

The Knuckles Mountain Range is a stunning natural wonder located just one and a half hours from Kandy. It is named after its unique shape, which resembles a set of knuckles on a hand.

The Knuckles Mountain Range, as part of the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is easy to see why. The mountain range is home to 9 peaks over 1200 meters, with the highest peak being “Gombaniya” at 1906 meters.

The Knuckles Mountain Range is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, as it offers a range of exciting activities such as hiking, trekking, camping, and bird-watching. The area is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endemic species and several waterfalls, rivers, and streams.

If you want to do a multi-day hike, you can spend the night at several campsites and lodges, such as the incredibly stunning Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge .

If you want to explore the Knuckles Mountains with a guide, I highly recommend this 2-day hiking experience . It is super affordable for everything that’s included:

• Private transportation
• 2 night half board accommodation Breakfast, Dinner (Heavens holiday resort)
• Entrance tickets
• Guiding fee
• Mineral water (Tracking day)

🌟 Check price & availability here >> All Inclusive Knuckles Trek With Accommodation

How to get to Kandy

Most of you will probably fly into Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, train or hire a private driver to Kandy. The journey takes around 3-4 hours by road.

During my second visit to Sri Lanka, I booked transportation with Praboda throughout most of my time, and he made my trip! From the moment he picked me up at the airport to the moment he dropped me off, nothing was too much.

He helped me plan, gave me locals-only tips and showed me so many places I would never have seen on my own.

🌟 Check price and availability here >> Private driver in Sri Lanka

Kandy is well-connected by train to other parts of Sri Lanka. The nearest train station to Colombo Airport is Katunayaka South Station, which can be reached by either bus, taxi or tuk-tuk.

The train journey from Colombo to Kandy is one of the most scenic routes in the country. It takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the train you take. Several trains run daily between Colombo and Kandy, so you can choose the one that suits your schedule.

When I caught the train in Sri Lanka I just showed up to the train station and asked someone to point me in the right direction. There were never any difficulties finding the right train.

Buses are the most common mode of transport in Sri Lanka, and several buses run between Colombo and Kandy. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic. Buses are a cheap and convenient way to travel, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable during peak hours.

How to get around Kandy

Kandy is a small city, and many of the tourist attractions are located within walking distance of each other. If you get tired of walking just hail a tuk-tuk, the main mode of transportation in Sri Lanka .

It’s a small moped cart thingy with three wheels(first picture), super cute and handy for shorter distances. Keep in mind that you should always agree on a price upfront, to eliminate any surprises.

Another option is to rent a bicycle or a motorbike. This is a great way to explore the city and the surrounding areas. Several rental shops in Kandy offer bicycles and motorbikes for rent at reasonable prices. I do think you need an international driver’s license, and some have said they had to leave their passport at the rental place, so I never looked into this option.

Finally, if you want to experience the local way of life, you can take a bus. Buses are cheap and frequent, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Make sure you know the bus number and the route before getting on the bus.

Since I had limited time in Kandy I opted for two guided tours, and I’m so happy I did. I’m becoming more of a fan of organized tours every time I travel, you learn so much valuable information from the guides and get to experience hidden gems you might otherwise have missed.

🌟 Experience the highlights of Kandy on this full-day guided tour . Visit the Temple of the Tooth, the Botanical Gardens, enjoy panoramic views of the city and performance of traditional Kandyan dances. This tour was one of the highlights of my time in Kandy.

Where to stay in Kandy

There are many incredible accommodation options in Kandy at every price range. Some are right in the city center and some are immersed in the beautiful nature surrounding the city.

One option that I highly recommend is the Cinnamon Citadel Kandy . The hotel is situated on the outskirts of town, on the banks of the Mahaweli River, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

It also features a beautiful pool, a spa, and several restaurants, making it an ideal choice for those who want to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. One of my favorite hotel experiences in a long time!

If you would rather stay in the city center, and feel like royalty while you’re at it, you can’t go wrong with Queen’s Hotel . This stunning heritage hotel boasts a rich history and charming colonial architecture that will transport you back in time.

The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, providing guests with a comfortable and relaxing stay. Overall, if you’re looking for a luxurious and memorable stay in Kandy, Queen’s Hotel is the perfect choice.

FAQ: Best places to visit in Kandy

Here are some quick answers to the most common questions I see about Kandy.

Absolutely! Kandy is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka, especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. It’s a beautiful city that has a lot to offer, including rich culture, history, and stunning natural beauty.

However, if I was limited on time, I would have chosen Arugam Bay over Kandy, the beach town on the east coast was the highlight of my trip. Probably because it reminds me of Bali .

Because of its dramatic location, Kandy enjoys a tropical salubrious climate, with temperatures ranging between 19-28 °C all year round. A cool and comforting contrast to the sizzling hot coastal lowlands.

The best time to visit Kandy is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. However, Kandy can be visited throughout the year, but you may experience some rain during the other months.

Kandy is famous for its cultural heritage, including the Temple of the Tooth, which is one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the world. The city is also known for its beautiful botanical gardens, tea plantations, and scenic views.

Kandy is a city steeped in history, with a rich cultural heritage that spans over 2,500 years. As the last capital of the ancient kings’ era of Sri Lanka, Kandy was the stronghold of the Sinhalese kingdom against foreign invaders.

The city is home to many historical landmarks, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world.

Both Kandy and Ella are beautiful destinations in Sri Lanka, and it depends on what you’re looking for. Kandy is a cultural hub with a rich history, while Ella is known for its stunning natural beauty and hiking trails.

If you’re interested in culture and history, Kandy is the place to go. If you’re looking for a smaller town with outdoor activities and scenic views, then Ella is the better choice.

Kandy is a landlocked city, and there are no beaches in the immediate vicinity. However, there are several beautiful beaches within a few hours’ drive, such as Bentota, Dalawella Beach in Unawatuna, Weligama and Mirissa.

More Sri Lanka travel guides

• Top 10 Arugam Bay hotels & restaurants
• Top 11 awesome things to do in Arugam Bay
• Why you should visit Tangalle Beach in Sri Lanka
• The ultimate 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary
• Talalla Beach, Sri Lanka : Tropical Paradise
• 7 unique and affordable Sri Lanka Airbnbs
• An emotional visit to the Dog Care Clinic, Sri Lanka
• Dalawella Beach & the instafamous swing in Unawatuna
• Tips for visiting the incredible ancient city of Polonnaruwa
• The elephants of Pinnawala : An animal haven or just another tourist attraction?

About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

You’ll Also Love

20. September 2016 at 02:51

Oh my gosh could your photos be any prettier?!?! It seriously looks like they belong in a travel magazine or every brochure you find when you check into a hotel. Welp, looks like I have to go on vacation here now!

Danielle | http://www.FollowMyGut.com <3

20. September 2016 at 11:36

Thank you for your lovely comment Danielle! This made my day 😀

23. September 2016 at 13:00

Beautiful pictures and breath taking view.I hope to travel a lot one day.Great post.

http://www.aprilwashere.com

23. September 2016 at 13:12

Beautiful photos. Sounds like a wonderful place to visit.

26. September 2016 at 20:33

Thanks Lisa! Yes it really is.

23. September 2016 at 15:39

Beautiful photos I have always wanted to go to Sri Lanka! Hopefully one day.

I hope you get to go soon, Sri Lanka is awesome! 🙂

23. September 2016 at 17:04

These pictures are so stunning! Great quick guide for someone who has never been! <3

-Clarissa @ The View From Here

26. September 2016 at 20:32

Thanks Clarissa, happy to hear that!!

23. September 2016 at 17:37

Wow it does look like such a gorgeous place to visit. I would love to go sometime! Thanks for sharing and your photos are absolutely stunning.

26. September 2016 at 20:31

Thank you so much Hollie!

23. September 2016 at 17:48

This comes handy! I am just about to get air ticket to go to Sri Lanka over Christmas! Fantastic pictures!

Thanks Paula! How exciting, you should check back here later. Lots of posts on Sri Lanka coming in the next few weeks 🙂

23. September 2016 at 19:21

What a beautiful place!! I’ve never heard of it but am definitely adding it to my travel list!

Jenna from http://www.visionsofvogue.com

26. September 2016 at 20:29

So happy to hear that Jenna! 😉

26. September 2016 at 07:19

Awesome photos and great perspective on Sri Lanka. Pinning for when I make it out that way!

26. September 2016 at 20:28

Thank you Jessica! I hope you get to go soon 🙂

26. September 2016 at 23:20

Wow, this trip looks amazing! Also, beautiful pictures.. they definitely make me want to be there. Keep up the hard work girl, awesome blog.

26. September 2016 at 23:23

Thank you Karen! It means a lot to hear that 🙂

14. October 2016 at 02:22

Great post! Going to be super helpful for my visit in December 🙂

20. October 2016 at 04:13

Thanks Katie! I’m so happy to hear that 🙂

15. March 2017 at 10:24

hi Charlotte, thanks for informative blog on Kandy…. i like the clicks, it gives great imagination about a place you wish to visit 🙂 thanks again

19. August 2019 at 17:23

Hi Charlotte, Loved this post. I’m off to Sri Lanka in c ouple of weeks and was unsure what to do while were in Kandy so this was super useful. Thank you!! Rosie

20. August 2019 at 23:30

Thank you so much, Rosie! I’m so happy to hear that 🙂

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Your guide to the wilder side of life

10 Best Things to Do in Kandy, Sri Lanka: An Essential Guide

The gateway to Sri Lanka’s central highlands is the city of Kandy. Referred to as the City of Kings, Sri Lanka’s second city, or the Sacred City of Kandy, most travellers will find themselves spending at least a day in this hilly metropolis. As the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, there’s plenty of things to do in Kandy, from soaking up the forested views to visiting the country’s most important Buddhist site.

Kandy is not just a place to swap transport on your way to Ella and the other hill stations around central Sri Lanka. The city is worth exploring, with a rich history and passionate locals who will do their best to ensure you see the best of their home town.

I visited Kandy twice during my three months in Sri Lanka. I was lucky enough to see the city full of life during the annual Kandy Esala Perahera (Festival of the Tooth), as well as during the low season of September. While I know you’re keen to get on that train to Ella, this guide will outline the very best things to do in Kandy so you can fill in your time.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Why Visit Kandy and How Long to Spend There

Set amongst the cloudy hills and dense forests of Sri Lanka’s central province, Kandy is located three hours northeast of Colombo. It was the last capital of the Sinhala Kings, with the Kingdom of Kandy holding off the Portuguese and Dutch for centuries before finally succumbing to the British in 1815.

With its protected history and passionate local inhabitants, the city has held onto the rich cultural ties of its ancestors with a strong tradition of dance, art, and devotion. It’s also home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a famous pilgrimage site surrounded by a serene lake.

I was surprised to find that very few people actually spend much time in Kandy. Most travellers typically stay one night as they continue onto Ella or further north to Sigiriya. Kandy is more often used as a transport link or stopover on a Sri Lanka itinerary . But this is a shame.

I highly recommend spending at least two nights in the town, if you can. It’s worth exploring, and although it’s just a city at the end of the day, there’s much to see in and around Kandy to fill in a couple of days.

How to Get to Kandy

Kandy has become an essential stop on any Sri Lanka itinerary, due to its convenient location in the central region of the country. Whether you’re heading north to Dambulla and Sigiriya and beyond or using it as a jumping off point for exploring the hills around Nuwara Eliya and Ella, Kandy is a transport hub with options coming and going from many different destinations.

Here’s how to reach Kandy from the most popular places.

From Colombo

Kandy is often one of the most common destinations for tourists leaving Colombo. There’s plenty of options for transport connecting two of Sri Lanka’s most important cities. You can opt for local bus, AC bus, train, or private taxi.

Colombo to Kandy by Train

There are several trains every day leaving Colombo and stopping in Kandy. The journey takes around 3 hours and is arguably just as beautiful as the Kandy to Ella train ride, as you leave the hot and congested streets of Colombo and ascend into the foothills of the central region.

Try to book a few days ahead at the station as this is a very popular route. Sometimes trains sell out on weekends and during popular local holiday times, so be prepared to have a back up plan (like the bus). Trains leave from the main Colombo Fort Railway Station.

Colombo Fort to Kandy train times: 5:55am, 7:00am, 8:30am, 10:35am, 3:35pm, 4:35pm, 5:45pm

Ticket price: 500 LKR for second class or 240 LKR for third class

Colombo to Kandy by Bus

For those who aren’t up for a train ride, you can also take the bus. There are two different buses that head up to Kandy from Colombo; regular local buses and air-conditioned minibuses. Both leave from Pettah Central Bus Station in Colombo.

These buses leave frequently multiple times an hour. The buses have signs on their windscreens indicating the destination so they’re easy to find in the station or you can easily ask around.

The journey time is about 3 hours by AC bus (they make very few stops, i.e. express service) or 4 hours by regular bus (they’ll stop frequently). Tickets range from 400LKR (USD $1.50) for the regular bus and up to 750LKR (USD $2.50) for the AC bus.

Colombo to Kandy by Taxi

If you prefer a private transport option, you can order an Uber or PickMe to take you from Colombo to Kandy. This will take about 3 hours of driving and can cost from USD $45. Otherwise, book a private transfer ahead of time for something more convenient.

Kandy is the jumping off point for those looking to explore the tea plantations and hills of central Sri Lanka. Throw in the fact that the Kandy to Ella train has become the most famous experience in the country, and the connection between Kandy and Ella has become a well-travelled route. Whichever direction you’re travelling in:

Ella to Kandy by Train

The Kandy to Ella train ride has become one of the most famous journeys in the world thanks to the jaw-dropping views you can enjoy over the 8 hour ride through the hills. While most people travel from Kandy to Ella by train, you can of course do it in the opposite direction too.

There’s much to say about this popular train ride, so if you’re interested in doing it, I suggest reading my in-depth post linked below for all my top tips. But in a nutshell, I’d try to book ahead as far as possible for this train and be prepared for a long, crowded journey. It’s still worth it though, and is generally a little quieter if you do it in reverse from Ella to Kandy.

Ella to Kandy train times: 6:39 am, 9:23 am, 11:11 am, 12:04 pm, 18:59 pm

Ticket price: 1300 LKR for third class reserved or 1800 LKR for second class reserved

Read more: 18 Tips for the Kandy to Ella Train: Everything You Need to Know

Ella to Kandy by Bus

If you prefer to avoid the chaos of the train, then you can also travel by bus. However, the buses to and from Ella can be a little inconsistent as the town doesn’t have an official bus station.

The best option will be to take a bus to Nuwara Eliya from Ella. These buses pass through a couple of times in the morning having originated down on the coast. Then from Nuwara Eliya, you’ll find several buses leaving to Kandy throughout the day, both normal buses and AC buses.

The other option is to take a bus from Ella to Bandarawela , just 30 minutes away. From there, you’ll find more frequent bus services at the bus station there.

From Dambulla

Dambulla is another town in central Sri Lanka that draws plenty of tourists. Being home to the incredible UNESCO World Heritage cave temples, it’s also the gateway for exploring Sigiriya, one of the country’s most famous sites. The distance from Kandy to Dambulla is just 75km, so you have the option of travelling by bus or taxi (there’s currently no direct train).

Dambulla to Kandy by Bus

There are several buses running multiple times per hour between Dambulla and Kandy. You have the choice between air conditioned minibuses or normal local buses. The journey time is just 2 hours for AC buses, but closer to 3 hours for local buses.

Expect to pay around 500 LKR for an AC bus or less than half of that for a local bus. Dambulla has a main bus station, while Kandy has one huge area catering for buses which can be a bit chaotic, but Goods Shed Bus Stand in Kandy is the main station for long haul buses.

Where to Stay in Kandy

You’ll find great value accommodation in Kandy. Most hotels and guesthouses are spread out in town and into the surrounding hills, here’s where I recommend:

White Rose Hostel  | A boutique homestay with dorms and private rooms walking distance to the city centre.

Selyna Sky Terrace  | A welcoming and budget friendly guesthouse with private rooms away from the bustling centre.

SWP Eco Lodge  | A mid-range eco lodge close to the lake in Kandy and surrounded by nature.

The Radh Hotel  | A luxury hotel right in the heart of the city for those looking for comfort and convenience.

When to Visit Kandy

The climate in Kandy generally follows that of Colombo and the southern half of the country. This means that high season is January to April when the weather is at its warmest and driest. However, being up in the hills, means Kandy has a wetter and cooler climate than most of the country.

During the rainy season , the weather can be humid and damp. The heaviest rain can be found from May to July, and from October to December. I visited in August and again in September and found the weather was pretty good.

Read more: 26 Sri Lanka Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know

The Kandy Esala Perahera , also known as The Festival of the Tooth or the Elephant Festival, is held sometime in July-August in Kandy. This historical procession pays homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha housed inside the temple in town.

The festival runs over 10 days and Kandy is absolutely chaos at this time, with people travelling from all over the country to Kandy. I ended up in Kandy during the festival and while it definitely was fascinating to witness, it also made finding transport difficult as trains were completely booked out. Check the exact dates and events here before you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do in Kandy

Whether you have a day or three, there’s some really wonderful things to do in Kandy. Being the cultural capital and the base of the hilly region, you’ll find a nice balance between religious sites and beautiful scenery. Here are my top things to do in Kandy:

Try these top day tours!

Visit the temple of the tooth relic (sri dalada maligawa).

The most famous tourist attraction in Kandy is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, located next to the lake in the middle of town. As Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic (literally the tooth of the Buddha) and a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site , it’s a pilgrimage site that draws locals and Buddhists from around the world.

According to Buddhist legend, Buddha’s tooth was retrieved after he was cremated. It was believed that whoever possessed the tooth relic had divine right to rule over the land. The temple that now houses the relic was built in the late 16th century inside the royal palace complex of the Kingdom of Kandy .

During puja (prayer), the heavily guarded chamber is open to devotees, but the tooth itself is never revealed and remains in its jewell covered casket. During the Festival of the Tooth mentioned above, this casket is paraded around the city’s streets accompanied by dancing and decorated elephants (yes, real elephants).

The main shrine and temple is a spiritual place, but it’s open to everyone as long as you ensure you’re modestly covered. You’re allowed to take photos inside, but be considerate of devotees who might be in prayer. The elaborate murals are stunning and tell fascinating stories of Buddhist legends and the history of Kandy.

Entry ticket | 2000 LKR (USD $6.50) for foreigners

Walk Around Kandy Lake

You can’t miss Kandy Lake, lying right in the middle of town next to the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Known locally as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, it’s an artificial lake that was built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. The distinct island in the middle of the lake with its lonesome palm trees was originally used for the King’s harem until the British turned it into an ammunition store during the 1800s.

There’s a road that runs around the lake’s edge, but you can also find a footpath hugging the shores. If you have time, spend an hour or two strolling a lap of the lake which provides a peaceful escape from the bustling traffic. It also offers a different perspective of some of the city’s major attractions, such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the Royal Palace, and Udawattakele Forest Reserve. 

Be watchful for touts and scammers circling around the lake’s footpath near the temple who will no doubt try to sell you a cultural dance show ticket or other souvenirs. Kandy was one of the only places in Sri Lanka that I encountered this kind of thing!

Entry ticket | Free

Wander the Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya

I’ll admit, I was not overly enthusiastic about the botanical gardens. My hostel owner insisted that I go and even personally took me to the bus stop on the main road to catch a local bus down to the gardens to avoid an expensive tuk tuk ride. So, I relented. When I saw the entry price, I was even more unsure whether it was going to be worth my time. But, I was wrong.

One of the legacies of the British is that Sri Lanka has royal botanic gardens scattered across the whole country. But the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya in Kandy are certainly the largest and most impressive. They existed well before the British though, as they were formerly reserved exclusively for Kandyan royals until the British expanded them.

Today, the gardens cover an area of 147 acres , with more than 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palm trees. The garden has many different sections based on the plants and flowers (trying to get around to all of them will literally take hours!). Some of the highlights include the Avenue of Royal Palms (a made-for-Instagram type spot), Cactus House and Orchid House, and the Suspension Bridge.

The botanic garden entrance is about 6km south of the Clock Tower in Kandy city centre. You can either get a tuk tuk for around 600 LKR one way, or jump on #652 bus which travels from the Clock Tower down to Perideniya right past the gardens for 50 LKR one way.

Entry ticket | 3000 LKR (USD $10) for foreigners

Watch the Sunset from Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya in Bahirawakanda

You might spot the towering Buddha statue high on the hill above Kandy while walking the streets. The temple and gigantic white Buddha on the hill of Bahirawakanda is called the Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya.

Built in 1972, the sculpted white statue stands 88 feet tall (27 metres) and is one of the tallest Buddhas on the island . I highly recommend climbing up to the statue at sunset time, where you can wander the temples, listen to the evening prayers, and climb the steps to the top of the statue for panoramic views of the city with its backdrop of mountains.

The temple is only 1km from the Clock Tower. You can grab a tuk tuk or I just walked up the steep road to reach it. It’s a safe part of town to walk back after sunset.

Entry ticket | 300 LKR (USD$1) for foreigners

Explore the Architecture of Old Town

Kandy’s rich history and cultural legacy can be explored simply by wandering the streets. While it is a city, I found it quite an enjoyable place to stroll around and soak up the sights and sounds of Sri Lanka. The old town of Kandy mostly runs the few blocks between the Clock Tower and the lake, filled with grand old colonial architecture, little eateries, and plenty of market stalls.

You’ll notice an interesting blend of architecture; a legacy of the colonial history and different religious influences. Don’t miss the Red Mosque of Kandy (not as grand as Colombo’s but still beautiful), Queens Hotel , and Giragama Walawwa (one of the oldest buildings in the city).

Try Masala Dosa at Balaji Dosai

Kandy is home to some incredible food and local restaurants. In fact, the locals of Kandy are very passionate foodies. My hostel owner recommended I try Balaji Dosa for lunch and whenever I hear the word dosa, I’m already sold (it’s easily one of my favourite foods in the world). Dosa is a typical South Indian and North Sri Lanka dish, which is a savoury pancake made from fermented rice and black gram.

Balaji Dosa is known to serve the best in town and I have to say I agree. It’s an absolute institution in Kandy, and you’ll find it packed full of locals and tourists alike. It’s a vegetarian only restaurant, with as range of dosas on the menu, including the famous masala dosa (dosa stuffed with curried potatoes). But you can also pick the traditional rice and curry as well.

Prices | 300-500 LKR

Arthur’s Seat Viewpoint at Sunset

If the Buddha statue didn’t fill your camera enough of epic views, then I also recommend wandering up to the viewpoint above Kandy Lake known as Arthur’s Seat. Located in the upper part of town south of the lake, you can access the viewpoint by walking through the Price of Wales Royal Park and then turning left to follow the road past some upscale hotels to the viewing platform (you can always hail a tuk tuk too).

There’s a large platform from which you can gaze over the lake, Temple of the Tooth Relic, Royal Palace, the Old Town and even up to Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya, the white Buddha statue. Like most viewpoints, it’s at its best at sunset but is still nice at any time of the day.

You’ll find some locals selling souvenirs there too. They’re super nice people and I had a chat with the vendors for a while, without them pushing any sales on me (rare in Asia!). They’re part of a cooperative from the local villages, so I recommend purchasing from them if you’re looking for souvenirs.

Take the Kandy to Ella Train

The main reason tourists find themselves in Kandy is to take the train from Kandy to Ella. This is no ordinary train ride. It’s widely considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world as you climb through the hills and tea plantations to the small mountain town of Ella.

While it’s become a famous experience, it’s definitely not overrated, and you should definitely plan to take some or all of the journey between Kandy and Ella in any direction. The full trip from Kandy to Ella by train can be around 8 hours depending on delays and you’ll need to book in advance if you want to secure a seat.

I recommend hopping on the train and getting off in Nuwara Eliya , spending a couple of days there, and then continuing the journey to Ella. The famous photos of people hanging out of the doorways might not be the reality you get, with the crowded trains having plenty of people competing for photos and window space. But it’s still worth it.

The views along the way are spectacular , as you pass tumbling waterfalls, tea plantations, local villages, and dense forest through the hills. Read more in my post below which details how to book, ticket prices, train schedule, and my top tips for taking the long train journey.

Read more: 18 Tips for Kandy to Ella Train: Everything You Need to Know

Take a Half Day Trip to Ambuluwawa Tower

A decent half day trip from Kandy is to the whimsical Ambuluwawa Tower. This incredibly unique landmark is really worth a visit and is super easy to do by public transport. From Kandy, you simply have to catch the 718 bus for an hour to Gampola and then take a tuk tuk for 6km up to the tower itself.

This is not recommended for anyone scared of heights or not confident in Sri Lanka’s engineering capabilities. Getting to the top of the tower requires walking on an incredibly narrow staircase that wraps around the outside of the spiral all the way to the very tip.

Of course, the reward is truly panoramic views stretching over the surrounding lush green valley, mountains, rivers, and towns. You can easily get to the tower, explore the complex (which also consists of various temples), and return to Kandy well within 4-5 hours, making it a great independent day trip idea. Read more tips about visiting Ambuluwawa Tower below in my guide.

Entry ticket | 2000 LKR (USD $7)

Read more: How to Visit Ambuluwawa Tower From Kandy

Day Trip to Knuckles Forest Reserve

While Sri Lanka may not be known for its excellent hiking , the Knuckles Forest Reserve easily cements itself as one of the best places to go for a challenging walk in the country. The Knuckles Mountain Range is a mist-covered, rugged mountain area located about 40km northeast of Kandy.

Within the park you’ll find some of the most scenic but toughest hiking trails in Sri Lanka. You’ll need a guide to navigate the area though, so it’s best to arrange a day trip from Kandy or stay overnight somewhere closer to the reserve to fully appreciate the area. Take a look at the Wild Glamping Knuckles for a special experience surrounded by the mountains.

Exploring More of Sri Lanka? Read These:

• Ella: 10 Best Things to Do in Ella: An Essential Guide
• Colombo:   Best Things to Do in Colombo in 24 Hours
• Sigiriya: Ultimate Guide to Sigiriya and Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle
• Galle:   2 Days in Galle Fort: Best Things to Do in Galle
• Hiriketiya:   Hiriketiya Beach: A Guide to Sri Lanka’s Little Coastal Paradise
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17 Great Things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Updated March 11, 2024

// By Margherita

Let’s travel back to a country we really love, Sri Lanka! Here are the 10 best things to do in Kandy – don’t miss this city if you’re interested in culture!

Here is our 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary to help you plan your visit!

No time to read it all? Here are the best tours and experiences in Kandy!

We love booking tours with GetYourGuide – the company offers a variety of activities, flexible booking, and 24/7 support!

• From Kandy: Scenic Ride to Ella – don’t miss this iconic Sri Lankan train ride!
• Kandy and Sigiriya Fortress Day Trip – combine a Kandy day trip with the famous Sigiriya hike
• From Kandy: Nuwara Eliya by Train – scenic train ride through the hill country!
• Kandy Day Tour with a Local – get a local to show you around their hometown
• Kandy: Guided City Tour with Tuk-Tuk Transfers – the most fun way to get around
• From Kandy: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip – a best-selling tour and great value for money

There are many things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka – which explains why this is one of the most popular places to visit in the country. I admit it took me a while to warm up to it, but I was eventually captured by its unique charm and truly enjoyed the four days I spent there.

Located in the famous Hill Country, one of the most scenic regions of Sri Lanka, Kandy is indeed a very interesting city. It used to be the capital of the ancient kings and while it lost its capital status a while ago, it remains the second-largest city in the country and it has retained all its religious and cultural significance.

In Kandy Sri Lanka you’ll find the most holy relic for the Buddhist faith, as well as  numerous other attractions that will keep you busy for a few days . It’s also the starting point for one of the most scenic train rides you’re bound to take in your life.

In this post, I highlight all the best things to do in Kandy Sri Lanka, and in its immediate surroundings. I also share a few tips to make the most of your time in the city.

17 Great Things To Do In Kandy Sri Lanka

1) visit the temple of the tooth relic.

The Sri Dalada Maligawache,  or Temple of the Tooth Relic, is one of the holiest places in Sri Lanka and one of the most famous places to visit in Kandy. It’s a very important pilgrimage destination, home to a tooth that is supposed to belong to Buddha and which used to have political value as it was believed that whoever held the relic would be the governor of the country.

It’s thanks to the relic that Kandy is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The temple is located in the Royal Palace complex, where there are several temples and museums, and visiting is one of the ultimate things to do in Kandy. Most locals and people from other parts of Sri Lanka go there for the puja , during which they offer their prayers and admire the gold casket in which the tooth is guarded (keep in mind you won’t be actually able to see the tooth).

TIP: Make sure to be dressed appropriately upon visiting. Both men and women should cover their legs and shoulders, or else they will be denied entry.

Make sure to plan your visit carefully . I’d recommend avoiding the puja if you are not a fan of the crowds. This is performed three times daily – at dawn, at noon, and in the evening – and that’s the worst time to visit, because there will be a long line to get in and chances are you’ll end up being pushed and pulled by the crowd, without really being able to see anything.

On Wednesdays, there’s a ceremony called Nanumura Mangallaya, during which the relic is bathed with an herbal preparation of scented water and flowers.

2) Visit Dalada Maligawa Museum

This is one of the nicest museums in Sri Lanka, with a good exhibit of relics and documents that will allow you to learn more about Buddhism and how the peaceful teachings of Buddha had an impact on world history, and how it spread throughout Asia and the rest of the world. It’s a good place to get a better understanding of the culture and history of Sri Lanka, so I recommend visiting as one of the things to do in Kandy.

3) Walk around Kandy Lake

Kandy Lake is an artificial lake that was excavated upon orders of Wikrama Rakasinhe, the last king of Sri Lanka. He wanted to have an addition to the Temple of the Tooth Relic complex. The lake was never really completed, as the works had to be interrupted because of the British invasion in 1815. It’s one of the most famous places to visit in Kandy , and on a regular day, locals and tourists alike can be seen strolling along its perimeter. It’s a nice sight, though the noise of traffic and the smell of exhaust from the old buses that drive around the lake can be a bit too much at times.

4) Explore Peradeniya, the Royal Botanical Garden

The Royal Botanical Garden dates back to 1371, and it can be easily reached by tuk-tuk from the center of Kandy. There, you’ll find a whopping 4000 species of plants, among which medicinal plants, orchids, and lots of beautiful palm trees. It’s a pleasant place to walk around for a couple of hours.

5) Visit a Spice Garden

With so many spices coming from Sri Lanka, it’s easy to see why you’ll find so many spice gardens here. They are normally free to enter – so a good place to visit if you are traveling on a limited budget. It’s a good place to buy spices you may want to take home with you (but don’t forget to haggle the prices! ). You will find excellent quality vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg (my personal favorite), cloves and much more.

6) Admire Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue

The massive Buddha statue of Bahiravokanda Vihara is located on a hill overlooking Kandy and it’s one of the most famous religious monuments in town. Visiting is what to do in Kandy for nice views, but if you intend to go make sure not to walk all the way up there in the early afternoon unless you can really bare the heat. Remember you have to remove your shoes before entering the premises.

The statue can be seen from several places in the city , and it’s especially beautiful at night when it glows in the dark.

7) Walk around Udawattakele Forest Reserve

Once a private garden for the king of Kandy, Udawattakele is now a wildlife sanctuary where you’ll find many species of mammals, birds as well as reptiles. There also are various Buddhist meditation hermitages. It’s a nice place to explore if you want to be in a quiet place.

8) Visit the Commonwealth Cemetery

One of the nicest places to visit in Kandy Sri Lanka, is the Commonwealth Cemetery, which was founded in 1871. This is meant to be a memorial for the soldiers that took part in WWII to defend Sri Lanka, and a lovely place to explore thanks to the peaceful atmosphere which is truly at odds with the chaos of the city. It’s a spotless place (once again, at odds with the actual look of the city). It’s free to visit, but you can make a donation towards its maintenance.

9) Attend a Kandian dance and drum show

If you are into local arts and dances, one of the best things to do in Kandy is attending a show of dance and drums that takes place at the Kandyan Art Association Hall and other places in town (ask at your hotel for more details). The performance is just long enough to be entertaining, it’s colorful and fun, and it’s not expensive. There also is a fire walking ceremony at the end of the show, which starts every day at 5:00 PM. Make sure to buy tickets in advance.

10) Shop at local markets

If you want to get a bit of local action, head to the local market. It’s a chaotic, loud place but you’ll have a chance to buy lots of good fresh fruits and vegetables – the papaya is especially tasty – and to interact with the friendly locals , who are always happy to pose for photos (though I recommend always asking for permission before snapping). Prices are usually very honest, but you may want to try your bargaining skills nevertheless.

11) Try Local Food

Food in Sri Lanka is very interesting. I am a huge fan of the very spicy, very garlicky flavour, and I agree that one of the things to do in Kandy is getting properly introduced to local cuisine. If you want to treat yourself to a good meal, head to the Kandy Muslim Hotel. There, you’ll find excellent curries, and the famous kottu roti , a dish of chopped rottis fried with meat, vegetables and to which a bunch of other ingredients are added.

If you happen to staying in a more local place – ie a homestay – ask the owners if they also prepare meals. They will usually be happy to cook you a scrumptious meal for a real steal, and you will know for sure that what you are having is local!

12) Have Some Tea and Cake

If you happen to be walking along the main street of Kandy Sri Lanka, you will notice that there are several coffee shops. These are all good places to have a break with a cup of local tea and a bit of cake. Another thing I really enjoyed there is lemonade, which is made fresh to order and is a nice way to cool down from the incessant heat.

13) Learn How to Cook a Proper Curry

If you really appreciate Sri Lankan curries and want to learn how to reproduce them at home, one of the best things to do in Kandy is enrolling in a cooking class to master all the secrets of the most famous national dish. There are several in town, usually involving shopping at the local market for fresh ingredients and then preparing the meal you will eat.

14) Visit Giragama Tea Factory

If you love tea as much as I do, you will love Sri Lanka! This is one of the biggest tea producers in the world, and you’ll find lots of tea plantations in the country. One of the best places to visit in Kandy if you want to learn more about the process of making tea – from growing the plants, to picking the leaves and drying them, until turning them into the delightful drink – is Giragama Tea Plantation. This is just outside the city, at an easy tuk tuk ride.

You will be taken through the plantation, the factory and the museum, and at the end of the tour you will be offered a cup of tea. The shop sells an incredible selection of teas so this is your chance to buy some to bring home.

15) Get Out of Kandy to Visit Embekka Devale

One of the nicest things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka, if you are tired of the chaos and noise of the city, is to get out to explore the surroundings. It’s easy enough to do it by bus, and the local bus service is good and cheap. But you can even contract a tuk-tuk to take you around for the whole day.

One of the places you should visit is Embekka Devale, a beautiful temple where you’ll find locals praying and making their offers . The temple shrines has three main sections. The nicest one is the Drummers Hall, which has beautiful wood carvings. It’s a nice place to relax for a bit to observe the puja in a much more local and less crowded environment compared to that of the Temple of the Tooth Relic.

This temple isn’t as easy to reach as Embekka Devale, but it is worth the effort. You will be able to spot it from the road below, as you approach it, and the view is splendid. The temple was built in the 14th century . There is a small fee for visiting, though to be honest there isn’t really anybody that collects the money. There are two entrances – one facing the hill and one on the back.

17) Hop on a train across the Hill Country

One of the best things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is to hop on a train that goes through the Hill Country. Most travelers try to do it at least once, because for a real bargain, you get impressive views of the countryside and of the hills with the beautiful tea plantations. Make sure to get to the train station well in advance to get our first-class tickets, as they sell out quickly. Second-class tickets are ok and very very cheap, but you may have to stand for the ride.

It’s obviously much cheaper to buy train tickets locally, but if you want to make sure you have a seat you can buy them online here .

Practical Tips To Organize Your Trip To Kandy

Where to stay in kandy sri lanka.

As one of the most touristy destinations, there are some very good accommodation options in Kandy, suitable for all sorts of budgets and tastes. During my time there I opted to stay at a local homestay, but I had a chance to explore the grounds of several hotels and hostels that I can recommend.

These are some of the best places to stay in Kandy:

• Old Town Hotel   is actually a homestay, located a bit outside the center of town but within easy walking distance. Rooms are large and comfortable, the area very safe and the owners kind. You can have meals there as well. Click  here for the latest rates .
• The Radh Hotel   is an excellent option if you want a comfortable place that is in the heart of town. Rooms are very large and comfortable. Click  here for the latest rates .
• The Oasis Hostel  is a very good options for backpackers and solo travelers, with good dorms, common areas and even private rooms. Click  here for the latest rates .

Getting to Kandy 

Kandy is at about 3.5 hours drive from Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo. There is no airport, but as this is the second biggest city in Sri Lanka it is very well connected to the rest of the country and you can reach it by bus, train, and even car.

You should be able to find a train to Kandy from many places around the country. There are regular trains from Colombo, Anuradhapura, Jaffna, Ella, Badulla, and Nuwara Eliya. Train tickets are very cheap, and the rides are very scenic, but if you want to reserve your seats you have to get to the train station well in advance. In fact, I recommend booking your train online.

Kandy is well connected to the rest of Sri Lanka by bus. I arrived there from Sigiriya and it was a straightforward ride.

Traveling around Sri Lanka by bus is in general very easy, but buses can get very crowded , you will have to take your bags on the bus with you, and sometimes you won’t find a seat. Some long-distance buses have air conditioning, but don’t take this for granted.

Bus travel can be very slow, and the roads are windy especially around the Hill Country, but the good news is that locals use the bus to move around so this is a good chance to get to talk to them – you will immediately notice that they are incredibly kind and helpful. Women always occupied a seat for me when they realized I was getting on the bus!

By private transfer

I don’t recommend driving in Sri Lanka – so if you aren’t a fan of public transportation, you will have to hire a car with a driver. Make sure to haggle the prices, and they will be inflated for tourists.

Getting Around Kandy

Kandy is fairly easy to explore on foot. If you plan to go to some of the attractions that are a bit further away, you can opt for public transportation – which is actually quite reliable; or get a tuk-tuk – but make sure to bargain the prices.

When to visit Kandy, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons , and even if you do your best to avoid the rain, you’re bound to get some. The dry season in Kandy starts in December and ends in April, though this may not be the dry season in other parts of the country that you plan to visit. All in all, I recommend going when you can. I visited in August, and out of 4 full days in Kandy it only rained once, consistently and for a couple of hours.

Planning to visit Sri Lanka? Here are some more articles!

• What Went Wrong in our Yala National Park Safari?
• Elephant Safari at Kaudulla National Park
• Wonderful Animals in Sri Lanka and Where to Find Them
• 8 Reasons to Stay at Cinnamon Hotels in Sri Lanka

Places To Visit In Kandy

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1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

1 km from city center 1 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, is the most sacred Buddhist temple in the world. It is located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. The temple houses the sacred tooth of Buddha nestled in a golden chamber within the premises of the royal palace complex. Evening is the best time to visit when the temple is lit up.

2. Kandy Lake

1 km from city center 2 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda, is an artificial lake bordering the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relics. The pathway around the lake stretches for 2.1 miles and is perfect for walking before or after visiting the temple. It provides a panoramic view of the hills and the town. Boating is also popular here.

3. Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

5 km from city center 3 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The most prominent garden in Sri Lanka, Royal Botanical Gardens is situated 5 km west of Kandy. The gardens are home to more than 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. It is a 147 acre - of natural elegance most famous for its orchids.

4. Udawattakele Sanctuary

1 km from city center 4 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is an important bio-reserve on a hillside beside the Dalada Maligawa and spans 257 acres. Tourists can visit three Buddhist monasteries here while trekking through the forest’s dense and diverse vegetation. The toque macaques, barking deer, and slender loris are only some of the animals visitors can come across, while around 80 species of birds make this a birdwatcher’s paradise.

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1 km from city center 5 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya or Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha is a Theravada Buddhist temple atop a hill in Kandy. True to its name “Big Buddha” is known for being a powerful and giant Buddha statue that overlooks the princely state of Kandy. It shows Buddha taking the Dhyana Mudra position, which was how he attained enlightenment.

6. Ceylon Tea Museum

0 km from city center 6 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Ceylon Tea Museum was structured in 1925 as the former Hantana Tea factory. Later in 1998, this tea factory was converted into the famous Ceylon Tea Museum. It showcases the history and heritage of the world-famous and finest Ceylon tea, exhibits the glory of legendary tea pioneers like James Taylor and Thomas Lipton, and also has on display vintage tea-manufacturing instruments.

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7. Kandy View Point

0 km from city center 7 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Visiting Sri Lanka's second largest city, Kandy and not exploring Kandy viewpoint will be a major miss. Located 1.7 KM from the main Kandy city, Kandy view point is regarded as the highest point in the city from where one can appreciate Kandy lake as if just below their feet and also the Dalada Maligawa Temple.

8. Kandy War Cemetery

3 km from city center 8 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The Kandy War Cemetery is 1.5 kilometres from the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens entrance and 5 kilometres from Kandy Railway Station. Visitors can walk through the graves of 196 Allied officers buried at this beautifully landscaped cemetery. They can also visit the Botanical Gardens and the nearby Garrison Cemetery.

9. Kandy Garrison Cemetery

1 km from city center 9 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth and 3 kilometres from the Kandy Railway Station, the last person buried in this cemetery was in 1951. Caretaker Charles Carmichael guides visitors through the cemetery, narrating the lives of those buried here. Visitors can enjoy an experience completely free of outside sound amidst the trees and the lake the cemetery overlooks.

10. National Museum of Kandy

0 km from city center 10 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Sri Lankan history and heritage, which has come a long way over the decades, is rightly preserved in the National Museum in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Formerly known as Palle Vahala, the museum earlier used to serve as accommodation for royal guests.

11. Day Trip To Dambulla Cave Temple

63 km from city center 11 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The Dambulla Cave Temple also called the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Matale District. It is the best-preserved and most extensive cave temple complex in the country, comprising five main caves, each possessing numerous statues of Lord Buddha and some figures of kings and statues of Lord Vishnu.

12. Hortons Plain National Park

12 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Horton Plains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, situated at an altitude 2,100–2,300 metres and located in Central Sri Lanka. It is a government protected area which is surrounded by massive cloudy forests and never-ending grasslands. Horton Plains National Park is a popular destination to visit the famed ‘World’s End Cliff’, a long, steep plunge of 880m where the plateau comes to a dramatic stop.

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13. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

27 km from city center 13 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was launched to provide shelter and nourishment to abandoned, injured and maimed elephants. The ideology behind this project revolves around the care of abandoned baby elephants, who cannot survive without their mothers.

14. Lankatilaka Temple

10 km from city center 14 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The famous Lankatilaka temple of the Gampola period, attached with a rich history and incredible architecture, portrays the essence of Sri Lanka from the 14th century during the Gampola reign. It is located in Kandy near the Gadaladeniya Vihara Buddhist temple. Various rock inscriptions in Sinhalese and Tamil define the history of the land and the temple.

15. Royal Palace of Kandy

0 km from city center 15 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Kandy’s legacy and heritage remains incomplete without getting a glimpse of the Royal Palace of Kandy, situated in the north to the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Before British Colonialism overtook the Kandyan Kingdom, this was the last royal structure built in the heart of Kandy city by Vikramabahu III in the 14th century.

16. World Buddhist Museum

1 km from city center 16 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The International Buddhist Museum or World Buddhist Museum is the first of its kind in the world and is in the cultural and administrative capital of Sri Lanka Kandy. It is nestled in the complex that once served as the King’s residence along with the National Museum and Temple of the Tooth, hence its structure exhibits royalty, grandeur and elegance at its best. It compiles Buddhism, the extensive history of its teachings and depth of knowledge through scrolls, artefacts and souvenirs from all over the world. 

17. Wales Park

0 km from city center 17 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Wales Park, also known as The Royal Palace Park, offers majestic views of Kandy Lake and the city. Tourists can walk through the walking trails and the woodlands and check out the Japanese field gun on show. Lord Mountbatten had presented this field gun to the city of Kandy, and it is on display under a pavilion guarded by statues of lions and separated from the main walkway by a moat.

18. Kandy to Ella Train

0 km from city center 18 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The 7-hour train ride from Kandy to Ella takes tourists through the most scenic route Sri Lanka has to offer. The open doors and windows of the old-fashioned train mean travellers can literally experience the wind in their hair as they take in the green rolling hills, tea farms, waterfalls and hilltop villages. The train stops at hilltop towns like Haputale and Nuwara Eliya, and tourists can explore the tea plantations there.

19. Day Trip to Sigiriya

75 km from city center 19 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya is only a bus ride away from Kandy, with direct buses taking only an hour to make the journey. The Sigiriya Rock is 650 metres high, and visitors can climb two of the rocks at this fortress. Lion’s Rock is a UNESCO world heritage site, and the gorgeous view atop the Rock is well worth the Rs 4,500 entrance fee. Pidirunga Rock is much cheaper to enter, at Rs 450, and offers excellent views of Lion’s Rock and the mountains around Kandy. Visitors can also check out Sigiriya museum’s exhibits on the excavation of the citadel.

20. Raja Tusker Museum

1 km from city center 20 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Raja Tusker Museum is dedicated to the stuffed remains of an elephant called Raja, one of the most important animals in the history of Sri Lanka. It is located within the royal complex on the site of Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. Raja belonged to the temple, served at the annual Esala Perahera festival, and carried the casket of the Sacred Tooth for nearly half a century.

21. Galadeniya Vihara

1 km from city center 21 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Galadeniya Vihara, also known as Saddharmatilaka Vihara or Dharma Kirthi Viharaya, is an ancient Buddhist temple in Pilimathalawa, Kandy located on the border of Udunuwara and Yatinuwara. Erected in around 1344 under the patronage of King Bhuvanekabahu IV, the temple’s architecture incorporates the ancient Dravidian style with Sinhalese Polonnaruwa and Indo-Chinese patterns.

22. Millennium Elephant Foundation

28 km from city center 22 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Dedicated to caring for, protecting and treating elephants, the Millenium Elephant Foundation was established in 1999 and is family-run. Visitors can go on bareback elephant rides or instead go on walks with the elephants, watching in awe as these majestic animals amble along. They can also help elephants bathe in the river, take an elephant shower, or visit an elephant dung factory. The foundation is funded by visitors and volunteers.

23. Kandy Esala Perehera Festival

23 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Kandy Esala Perahera, famously known as The Festival of the Tooth, is celebrated across Sri Lanka and brings in a unique crowd of Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. The festival lights up the town for a ten-day celebration in July or August. Kandy Perahara procession is a procession where one can experience and witness the displays of traditional customs.

24. Kandyan Art Association

1 km from city center 24 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Housed in the historic KAA building in Sangaraja Mawatha, Kandyan Art Association is a perfect place to shop for authentic art and craft of Kandy. It is an ideal spot for serious art collectors and tourists interested in buying gifts and souvenirs. A one-hour cultural show is held at 05:30 PM daily, where Kandy’s culture and heritage are celebrated through dance and music.

25. Ranweli Spice Garden

5 km from city center 25 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The Ranweli Spice Garden located near Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden also provides a pick-up service available from Kandy to the Ranweli Spice Garden. They organize guided tours for visitors where the English-speaking guide explains the essentials of flavor generation and its history.

26. Arunalu Spice Garden

5 km from city center 26 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Arunalu Spice Garden is one of the most popular spice gardens in Matale, Sri Lanka. Visitors have to pay a small entry fee to embark on an aromatic journey among the plantations and learn more about their cultivation. Relaxing massage packages are also available at the Arunalu Spice Garden for those who want to indulge in a calming experience.

27. Lucky Land Spice Garden

24 km from city center 27 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The Luckyland Spice Garden, located in Hingula, grows, cultivates and commercially sells spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, pepper and cardamom. The special Sri Lankan curry powder produced with the organically grown spices is a good buy. Visitors can also see ornamental plants such as cocoa, saffron and sandalwood at the Luckyland Spice Garden.

28. Knuckles Mountain Range

0 km from city center 28 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Knuckles Mountain range is an unusual terrestrial landform located in Matale and Kandy, in Central Province, Sri Lanka. The name was given by the British, and the locals call this range 'Dumbara Kanduvetiya', which means mist-laden mountains. Knuckles Mountain Range is called so because of its uncanny resemblance to the fingers of a clenched fist. The range is a World Heritage Conservation Area and is relatively untouched. The range features 34 peaks, ranging between 900 metres to 2000 metres. Five of these mountain peaks make the formation of a clenched fist.

29. Sirilak Spice and Herbal Botanical Garden

33 km from city center 29 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The Sirilak Spice and Herbal Botanical Garden located in Matale houses various spice plants. In addition to witnessing these plants, visitors also learn more about their medicinal benefits through guided tours. There are shops inside the garden selling organic herbs and spices as well.

30. Huluganga Falls

0 km from city center 30 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Huluganaga falls is located in a rustic town of the same name. It is approximately an hour to an hour and a half journey to reach. The rocks surrounding the waterfall and the river keep the waters from getting muddy, even during the monsoons. As the place experiences sudden and rapid surges in the water levels, it is strictly prohibited to enter the water.

31. Pallekele Cricket Stadium

10 km from city center 31 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

The Pallekele cricket stadium, capable of hosting 35,000 spectators, is half an hour’s drive to the east of Kandy city centre. It was built for the 2011 Cricket World Cup and hosts both test and one-day international matches. Visitors could catch an international match or watch the local Kandurata cricket team play. It is open from 8 in the morning to 6 in the evening.

32. Giragama Tea Plantations

10 km from city center 32 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Sri Lanka and its tea plantations go hand in hand. In the central province of Sri Lanka stands Giragama Tea Plantation, a quaint village known for tea cultivation. Giragama was one of the first few plantations near Kandy, the heart of Sri Lanka.

33. Royal Spice Garden

32 km from city center 33 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

You can explore the Royal Spice Garden in Matale to understand how the herbs and spices are grown and processed. Ayurvedic medicines for conditions such as diabetes are available at the Garden’s sales counter. Visitors must be cautious while purchasing using their debit/credit cards as card cloning fraud is a common worry in and around the place.

34. Spice Gardens

4 km from city center 34 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Known as the spice island, Sri Lanka has three famous spice gardens – Ranweli spice gardens in Kandy and Arunalu spice gardens in Matale and the New Ranweli Spice gardens in Kandy. The renowned spice gardens of Kandy and their exuberant quality lies in the fact that they are produced through organic farming and have received a fair trade certification.

35. Hanthana Mountain Range

0 km from city center 35 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Mountains have the power to uplift your spirits; a reason why mountains are the most sought after destinations for all kinds of tourists. One such spot in the heart of the island country, Sri Lanka is Hanthana mountain range. The spectacular view that you get of the entire Kandy city from Hanthana mountain range will keep you awestruck for your entire journey.

36. Galboda Falls

0 km from city center 36 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Located along the connecting railway lines between Colombo and Badulla, Galboda Falls is can be reached only via train as there is no properly developed road system. Board a train from Kandy to visit Galboda Ella, which is a 20 to 25-minute walk from the station. Since the place experiences a sudden and rapid increase in water level, it is highly prohibited to enter the water.

37. Maduru Oya National Park

0 km from city center 37 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Maduru Oya National Park is home to diverse wildlife and fascinating Buddhist ruins. With a population numbering more than a hundred, Asian elephants are the best feature of this national park. The wildlife at the park includes leopards, pangolins, mugger crocodiles, and birds such as cormorants and storks.

38. Saree Ella Waterfall

0 km from city center 38 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Located in Gomara village, 30 km from Kandy, Saree Ella Waterfall is approximately an hour-long journey to reach. Resembling the pallu of a saree, this waterfall provides mesmerising views.

39. Kadiyanlena Falls

0 km from city center 39 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Situated 47 km from Kandy, Kadiyanalena Falls is approximately a 2-hour journey from Kandy.

40. Galmaduwa Raja Maha Viharaya

0 km from city center 40 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Galamaduwa Raja Maha Viharaya is an old temple located in the Kalapura Village in Kandy district in Sri Lanka, which is a good place to visit for history enthusiasts; especially those that like to explore uncrowded places.

41. Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Vihara

0 km from city center 41 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Built in 1771 AD under the reign of King Rajadhi Rajasinha, Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Vihara is an old Buddhist rock temple located in the Kandy district in Sri Lanka.

42. Asupini Ella Falls

0 km from city center 42 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Asupini Ella located in Aranayake, Mawanella is 43 km from Kandy. Surrounded by thickets of greenery, this attraction provides a scenic view. As the road leading to the falls is in poor condition, it can be challenging to access Asupini Ella Falls at times.

43. Embekke Devale

0 km from city center 43 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Founded by King Vikramabahu III between 1357-1374 AD, Embekka Devalaya is an ancient temple dedicated to the guardian deity Kataragama deviyo and the local deity Devatha Bandara of Sri Lanka.

44. Hunas Falls

0 km from city center 44 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Hunnas Falls is tucked away in a small village that is located approximately 22 km from Kandy. Considered to be one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Kandy, Hunas Falls is also a popular honeymoon destination. The waterfall vicinity also houses multiple hotels that are easily accessible from Kandy.

45. Rathna Ella

0 km from city center 45 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Located in Hasalaka, Rathna Ella is the 14th highest waterfall (111 meters) in the country. A popular trekking destination, visitors would have to undertake a 3-km trek along the water channel bracketed by lush green forests to reach the falls.

46. Sudugala Falls

0 km from city center 46 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Located 40 km away from Kandy, the Sudugala Falls is located on the Samanalagama Road in the Nawalapitiya area close to the Heightenford railway platform. Also known as Heightenford Falls and Galpoththa Ella Falls, the waterfall ends in a 2-feet deep wide shallow pool.

47. Jodu Ella Waterfall

0 km from city center 47 out of 47 Places To Visit in Kandy

Located in Gomara, Jodu Ella Waterfall is approximately 36 km from Kandy. Also known as ‘Bambarella Knuckles falls’, this twin-falls have identical lengths of 45 meters and cascade simultaneously from both ends of the mountain into the Mahaweli River via Hulu Ganga River. A kilometer’s trek is needed to reach the falls.

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14 best places to visit in kandy [sri lanka] in 2024.

Kandy, Sri Lanka's second largest city, is one of the most popular spots to visit when backpacking through Sri Lanka .

Backpackers often stop here on their way towards the hill country areas of Nuwara Eliya and Ella.

If you’ve got 2 or three days to spare, then a stop to Kandy is worth it.

So keep reading to check out our epic guide on 15 brilliant places to visit in Kandy this year.

First things first ...

Travellerspoint

How to get to Kandy, Sri Lanka

If you have started your backpacking journey through Sri Lanka from Colombo, you can reach Kandy in around 2-2.5 hours (traffic dependent).

You’ve got a couple of different options available to you, each of which I discuss below. ‍

• ‍ 1. Car: You can opt for an Uber journey which should cost you around 6000 LKR without luggage and 7000 LKR with luggage. This works out at 1750 LKR per person based on four people sharing, and to get the best possible exchange rate, I recommend picking up a Revolut card before you travel. That’s not a bad deal for convenience and aircon. ‍
• 2. Train: The train journey from Colombo to Kandy is supposed to be quite scenic and should take 2.5 hours. You can find out more information here .The cost should be around 180-1,450 LKR depending on the class of travel.  Generally, train travel in Sri Lanka is considered more comfortable than buses. We use 12Go Asia for all our train travel needs in Asia, and Sri Lanka is no different. You can easily search and book online here . ‍
• 3. Bus : You can also catch a bus from Colombo to Kandy. It will take around 3-4 hours and should cost around 187 - 400 LKR. We’ve not used the bus, so I can’t verify how comfortable they are.  ‍
• 4. Tuk-tuk : You can rent and drive your own Sri Lankan tuk-tuk to go around the whole island. That's what Bradley and I did and it was the best decision we made. Not only is driving a tuk-tuk a lot of fun, but the flexibility it gives to you and your trip is brilliant. You can get off the beaten track and really do whatever you want. We used a company based in Colombo called Tuk-Tuk rental and I highly recommend them. It cost us USD $18 a day for a rental period of 28 days.

Psst, you can get 5% off your Tuktuk Rental with our code: DreamBigTravelFar

How long should you spend in Kandy?

This will depend on the amount of time you’ve got to backpack Sri Lanka.

In general, if you’ve only got a limited amount of time, then I would reduce the amount of time you spend in Kandy. 

Bradley and I stayed 2 nights , which we thought was sufficient for all the Kandy attractions that we will discuss below.

You could possibly do all the things to do in Kandy in one day, but it would be a long day.

Instead, it’s nicer to break it up into two and take it easy.

Also, some of the accommodation in Kandy is BEYOND amazing, so you might want to stay just to experience an infinity pool for a day longer.

P.S. if you’re super short on time on your trip to Sri Lanka, then you can always opt for a day trip to Kandy from Colombo .

You’ll get to see all the best sites and even visit a tea factory (always fun in Sri Lanka!).

You can check prices and availability here.

The best places to stay in Kandy

After MUCH research and deliberation, Bradley and I wanted to stay somewhere slightly outside the Kandy centre (10-15 minute drive), as we had just finished some hotel reviews and had a lot of work to catch up on.

So we needed 4 things:

• A comfortable bed
• Air-conditioning
• An awesome breakfast

In the end, we also got a pool which was a bonus!

We stayed in Nelinsa Kandy which cost just 1800 LKR each and with tonnes of excellent reviews, you know we aren’t lying when we say it was good!

They also serve dinner on your balcony which is delicious and well priced ( you can check out prices and availability here on Booking.com ).

For more inspiration on where to stay in Kandy, you can check out my guide on the best Kandy hotels.  

15 Brilliant Places To Visit In Kandy

Well now that we’ve sorted out how you’re getting there, let’s check out (what we believe to be) 15 of the best places to visit and things to do in Kandy. 

1. Visit The Unique Temple Of The Tooth

This is one of the most well-known Kandy attractions; it’s a beautiful temple located in the middle of the city which is said to house Buddha's tooth.

Also known as the sacred tooth relic.

The tooth is kept behind a glass and you can see it if you wish.

It’s a 17th-century temple and it’s certainly a very unique place to visit in Sri Lanka, and a real chance to get more insight into the Buddhist religion. 

I recommend visiting in the morning before the crowds gather, and be aware of local holidays which will also make it super busy.

This is another UNESCO world heritage sight that’s located in Sri Lanka. 

You’ll soon discover that there are lots, especially in the cultural capital area of Anuradhapura.  

Price: $10/Person

Book: Check GetYourGuide

Opening Times: 5.30 am to 8 pm 

2. Explore The Royal Botanical Gardens

This is without doubt my favourite place to visit in Kandy as it really is pure beauty.

In fact, I consider this not only one of the most beautiful places in Kandy, but Sri Lanka as a whole.

The gardens are very well maintained and depending on when you visit, there will be lots of beautiful flowers.

I wanted to see blooming rose gardens, but unfortunately, it wasn’t the season.

However, as you walk around with your map in hand there are lots of amazing plants and flowers to see.

It’s a calming area and a perfect place to spend a day in the sun.

It cost Bradley and me $15 for the both of us.

However, I had read online it would cost $15 each, so I think when you visit in Monsoon-like Brad and I did, it’s cheaper.

Within the park itself, there is a lovely restaurant that sits on the main field and it’s cheap to dine with a lovely view.

They take cards as payment too which is useful; so you can grab yourself a cup of tea and plan out your route around the Royal Botanical Gardens.

The perfect spot for lunch!

You could spend up to three hours here, depending on what you want to do.

There is a well-priced souvenir shop on the way out, and I bought my Sri Lanka shot glass here (for those who are new readers, I’ve been collecting shot glasses from every country I’ve been too, which means I have a lot!).

It was the cheapest I saw in all of Sri Lanka, coming in at just 200 LKR.

Price: $15/Person

Book: You buy directly from the entrance

Opening Times: 8 am to 5.30 pm 

3. Wander around Kandy lake

Kandy Lake is one of the most iconic areas of the city, and if you want an evening stroll when the heat isn’t too strong, then this is one of the best things to do in Kandy at night.

The lake itself is quite manic with traffic during rush hour, so if you want less beeping, then head early in the morning.

There are some bench areas for you to stop and take in the surroundings.

There is also a little island in the middle with palm trees, but I am not sure if you can actually visit it.

But I think if you visit either early morning, or late evening, then you’ll be surprised at just how peaceful this area of Kandy can actually be. 

Plus, it’s free!

Read Also: 50 Amazing Things To Do In Sri Lanka

4. Explore Udawattakele Forest Reserve

This is a historic forest reserve on a hill-ridge in the city of Kandy and is the perfect spot for those seeking walking/hiking and adventure.

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Kandy and it’s totally worth a full day trip.

If you’re into birdwatching, you can arrange a guide for around 500 LKR which is super cheap.

‍ This is a good spot to pack a picnic, even grab a couple of beers and go for a relaxing walk in the sunshine.

You will be given a detailed map at the entrance (as part of the cost) which will show you where each path leads and even without a guide you can find your way passing through, ‘Marble Seat’, ‘The Lover’s Walk’, Ironwood forest and Buddhist monasteries.

Price: 500 LKR/Person

Book: You buy directly from the entrance.

Opening Times: 7 am to 6 pm 

5. Be amazed by the soaring Buddha

I adore a view from above, and if you want the chance to see Kandy with a 360 panoramic view, then this is your best shot. 

Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue is the biggest Buddha statue in all of Sri Lanka.

It requires some steps, but you can drive up with a tuk-tuk too.

The beautiful Buddha is also fascinating to see; just remember it's a steep walk, so if you are going during the heat then bring water and put on sunscreen!

It’s actually nestled in the shadow of the Knuckles Mountain Range ( which you can visit in Kandy too! ), so on a clear day, the views are epic.

This is also a great place to get some cool drone shots. 

Read Also: The best places to visit in Arugam Bay

6. Learn history at the Kandy National Museum

If you like history, or you want to learn more about the Kandian era, then this is a good place to stop.

The museum is in the former royal palace and displays artefacts, weapons and much more from this period in time.

It's located next to the Temple Of The Tooth, so it’s a good spot to visit afterwards.

Also, you can combine this with a visit to the Royal Palace of Kandy which is located North of the Temple of the tooth.

Price: 600 LKR/Person

Opening Times: Official website

7. Ride the Kandy to Ella train

After you're done experiencing the most popular things to do in Kandy, I recommend moving on to 2 great places to visit near Kandy: Nuwara Eliya and Ella .

To access these two hill country icons, it's often best to take the train which, in itself, is one of the best things to do in Kandy!

The Kandy to Ella train ride is regarded as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, and I am sure you've seen the pictures splashed all over Instagram. 

It passes through tea fields, lush greenery and beautiful waterfalls.

It takes 4 hours to Nuwara Eliya and 7 hours to Ella.

It's cheap if you go for the cheapest class , and I've heard this is best because then you get the best views.

Plus you'll get to mingle with the locals and that is always fun!

Unfortunately, Bradley and I didn't get to go on the world famous train ride, as we had our own tuk-tuk for 4 weeks.

Whilst part of me does wish I did it, we pretty much did the same route and we got to physically stop at all the tea fields and drink tea, and stop at the waterfalls and take pictures.

So I don't think I missed out too much.

Price: $5-15/Person

Book: Buy your tickets here.

8. Take a day trip to Sigiriya 

Sigiriya is actually around a 2.5 hour drive from Kandy, so it’s totally possible to take a day trip here and visit the amazing Sigiriya Rock! 

If you’re short on time in Sri Lanka, then this is a great way to see one of the best sights in the country. 

Plus, on your way back, you could stop off at Dambulla and visit the Dambulla Cave Temple to knock off another item on that Sri Lanka bucket list. 

You’ll need to start your day early, but you’ll definitely be able to see both sights in one day from Kandy! 

Read also: Complete guide to visiting Sigiriya Lion Rock  

9. Contemplate at the Kandy War Cemetery

Sri Lanka holds a long and poignant history from the Second World War, and you can find 6 commonwealth war cemeteries all over the country. However, the Kandy War Cemetery is perhaps the most popular one.

Located just a mile from the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, this military cemetery is the resting place for soldiers of the British Empire who sacrificed their lives during the war. 203 of them are buried here, including 107 British, 35 East Africans, and 26 Sri Lankan soldiers. Their positions varied from army, airforce, to navy.

I think this is an excellent place to visit to immerse in the nation’s history, while paying tribute to these courageous soldiers. The cemetery itself is maintained by officers, and is open from 7am to 4pm daily.

Opening Times: 7am - 4pm

10. Stop by the Ceylon Tea Museum

Avid tea drinkers should visit the Ceylon Tea Museum when in Kandy, no exception. It’s only 3 kilometres from the city and extremely easy to reach.

This museum is a tribute to the authentic Ceylon Tea. Also known as Sri Lankan tea, it’s a popular type of black tea which bears hints of citrus and spice.

Built in 1925, I imagine that most people would be fascinated by the extent of its historical exhibits. From traditional tea-making equipment and machinery, to a comprehensive library and tea cafe on its fourth floor.

Not to mention the breathtaking view from the top floor. Sip on some fragrant, authentic tea as you watch over the landscape of Kandy. The backdrop of Hunnasgiriya and the Matale range make it all the more beautiful!

Price: LKR 400 (Children)/ 800 (Adult)

Opening Times: 8:30am - 3:45pm, Tuesday to Sunday

11. Walk through the Royal Palace Park

Fancy a morning stroll, or a relaxing walk in the afternoon just before dinner? I highly recommend a visit to the Wales Park, also known as the Royal Palace Park .

This beautiful park is perched on a hill in the city centre, giving you a sweeping panorama of Kandy lake and the city. It is well beloved by tourists and locals alike, especially for its peaceful ambience that offers respite from the bustles of the city.

Having stood here for hundreds of years, the park is popular among couples! Meanwhile, an old Japanese gun adorns the entrance, which was captured in Burma and presented to the city by Lord Mountbatten.

You can find this historic park right next to the Temple of the Tooth.

Price: LKR 100

Opening Times: 8am - 5pm

12. See the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium

For cricket fans, or lovers of sports in general, no visit to Kandy is complete without seeing the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium . This international cricket stadium opened in 2009 and was built for the 2011 Cricket World Cup. In fact, it is the world’s 104th Test venue.

The atmosphere is pretty superb and you can find amenities you would expect from any sports stadium. To experience the full majesty of its huge grounds, I recommend watching a match here!

There are also plans to rename the stadium after Muttiah Muralitharan, Sri Lanka’s legendary cricket star, although this hasn’t been officially confirmed.

Opening Times: 8am - 6pm

13. Appreciate the Kandy View Point

Kandy exudes some of Sri Lanka’s most alluring charms. Why not head over to the iconic Kandy View Point for a panoramic overview of the city?

From up here, you can watch over the mesmerizing Kandy Lake and even see the Temple of the Tooth. The seemingly endless meadows and mountains make it an especially romantic spot during sunset.

You can hike up the 1 km to the view point, or hire a tuk-tuk for a quicker alternative. This is definitely one of the most popular places to visit in Kandy.

Feel free to visit any time of the day, but the view at night of flashing city lights is quite unforgettable. Don’t forget to pack your camera!

14. Behold the Hulu River Waterfall

If you’re spending a few days in Kandy and have time to spare, I think a trip to the Hulu River Waterfall is called for. It’s just 30 km from the city, but the mystical beauty of its waterfall will make you feel transported to a whole new world.

Locals call it Huluganga Falls , which they often consider as an essential part of their heritage. This 75-meter waterfall cascades down in a majesty that is truly ethereal, for the lack of a better word!

This place is also popular because of the luscious scenery that surrounds the falls; a magnificent landscape in its own.

There’s something about the grandeur of waterfalls that is so therapeutic, and I think a visit to Huluganga Falls will ease away any stress. If you can, I would recommend coming here during the rainy season.

Final tips for visiting Kandy in Sri Lanka

When planning our Kandy itinerary, we found a few other things to see and do that may be of interest. These include:

• Natha Devale
• International Buddhist Museum (the world’s first!)
• British Garrison Cemetery: this is a war cemetery for British nationals who died in Ceylon
• Hanthana Mountain Range: Located South West of Kandy and home to seven peaks, the highest of which is Uura Kanda
• Knuckles Mountain Range: This mountain range is located in between Kandy and  Matale and it's a great place for hiking. Different tour companies can arrange tours from Kandy for hiking, so ask around to get a good price, and the more people you have, the better the deal.
• St Pauls Church

When is the best time to visit Kandy?

October to November is the “monsoon” season for Kandy, and it’s actually the time Bradley and I visited. We didn’t have much choice in the matter, but it only rained one day after 2 pm, so it really wasn’t too bad.

Typically, the best time to visit is between December to April as the weather is dry and pleasant. But either way, you can make it work with some strategic day activity planning.

The equipment we use when travelling

In case you're wondering what cameras we used to take our travel photos and videos from our time in Sri Lanka, here goes:

• ‍ Canon G7x Mark II : Brilliant little point and shoot, video recording for creating travel videos and vlogging camera. Wouldn't travel without it ‍
• Tripod:  Great for creating stable content
• Memory cards: I use 64GB Sandisk, sometimes the gold version for drone footage ‍
• Mavic Pro Drone:  Our baby mavic is high quality, worth a lot of money and worth it for the beauty it captures

For a better idea of what we took, check out our epic Sri Lanka packing list .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my post on eight brilliant places to visit in Kandy, and if you’ve got any questions or more ideas to be added to the list, then just let me know below ...

Other posts to help you plan your trip to Sri Lanka:

• 12 Totally Awesome Things To Do In Mirissa
• Our 3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary
• 12 Great Places To Visit In Trincomalee

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The Best Things to Do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Nestled among the lush green hills of Sri Lanka, surrounded by majestic mountains, lies Kandy—the cultural heart of the island. Brimming with a vibrant urban atmosphere, Kandy is an integral part of the cultural triangle, alongside Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa . Amidst this city, you’ll discover world-renowned religious sites, delicious cuisine, royal gardens, and unique cultural experiences that define Kandy’s distinct charm within Sri Lanka. As the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, Kandy boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, promising a myriad of things to do. Beyond being the gateway to the hill country, Kandy is famed for the iconic train ride to Ella . Explore this comprehensive travel guide to uncover the best things to do, ideal places to stay, mouthwatering culinary delights, and efficient ways to reach Kandy.

*  Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. This way you’re helping us write awesome travel guides and keep providing you with free content. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.

Sri Lanka Trip Planning Essentials

VISA | Apply for a tourist visa online , which allows a 30-day stay. Submit your application at least a week before departure to secure your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) confirmation promptly.

TRAVEL INSURANCE | Safeguard your backpacking journey through Sri Lanka with comprehensive coverage from Heymondo for trustworthy travel insurance. ( Get 5% OFF through our link )

STAY CONNECTED | Get a local SIM card from SLT Mobitel upon arrival at the airport or opt for an E-sim in advance through Airalo . 

CURRENCY | The local currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) , and the exchange rate is around 1 USD = 325 LKR. Check XE Currency Converter for updated exchange rates. 

HOW TO GET THERE | Explore the best flight deals to Colombo, Sri Lanka, using Skyscanner . 

ACCOMMODATION | Discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels through Booking.com .

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most cost-effective tours and day trip excursions, check out GetYourGuide or Viator .

TRANSFERS | Ready to travel to your next destination in Sri Lanka? Book your onward bus or train tickets via 12go .

WHEN TO GO | Plan your visit between December and April to experience the country’s highlights while avoiding the main monsoon season.

Is Kandy worth visiting?

Absolutely! Kandy is a must-visit spot in Sri Lanka! Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988 , it’s the cultural heart of the country. The main attraction is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, safeguarding a sacred Buddha tooth, making Kandy a significant pilgrimage site . This city carries a special spiritual vibe, all thanks to the importance of the Tooth Temple.

Looking for the ideal Sri Lanka Route? Check out our 3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary

How many days to spend in Kandy?

The ideal duration to spend in Kandy depends on your overall travel plans in Sri Lanka . If you’re on a tight schedule, it’s advisable to keep your stay in Kandy short. During our trip, we spent two nights, dedicating one full day to exploring all the attractions in Kandy, which we’ll cover shortly. One day is ample to soak in the charm of this ancient city , visiting its historical sites and savoring its delicious cuisine. If your itinerary allows for more time, consider extending your stay by an extra night to explore recommended day trips in the vicinity.

How to spend one day in Kandy?

Here’s a breakdown of how we spent an entire day exploring Kandy:

• Begin your morning with a visit to the botanical garden , spending a few leisurely hours there.
• On your way back to the city, make sure to pass by Kandy’s viewpoint for a scenic detour.
• Once back in the city, take a stroll through the old town’s streets , adorned with colonial architecture, and then head for a delightful lunch.
• Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake before making your way to the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
• Don’t miss the impressive Big Buddha situated in the hills of Kandy.
• Cap off your day with a mesmerizing Kandyan Cultural dance show .
• Try out some delicious local cuisine for dinner.
• The following day, embark on a picturesque train journey to Ella .

How to Get Around Kandy

Exploring Kandy’s town center on foot is a breeze due to its compact size, allowing you to easily appreciate the colonial architecture and local atmosphere. However, for attractions a bit farther away, like the royal botanical garden or the Buddha on the hill, hopping on a tuk-tuk is a convenient option . Tuktuk fares typically range between 200-400 LKR for a one-way trip, and it’s advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the ride.

During our visit, we opted for the convenience of a pre-arranged tuk-tuk through our accommodation. We agreed on a fixed rate of 1000 LKR, which covered multiple stops and even included a return trip to our homestay at the end of the day.

Additionally, as Kandy is a larger city, services like the PickMe App are available, offering more options for transportation to various attractions.

For those with limited time, a one-day Kandy tour is a fantastic option to efficiently explore all the noteworthy sights. Consider booking a Kandy day tour for a hassle-free experience.

Best Things to Do in Kandy

1. visit the temple of the sacred tooth.

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, also called Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a centuries-old Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It’s not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a significant pilgrimage destination believed to house a tooth relic of Buddha . People from all over the world come here to worship.

If you go early, you can enjoy a drumming ceremony and witness devotees offering flowers to the shrine – a unique and memorable experience, even though you won’t see the actual tooth, which is kept in a gold-shaped stupa. Take your time exploring the different rooms and the gardens around.

Rituals happen three times a day – at dawn (5:30 am – 7:00 am), morning (9:30 am – 11:00 am), and evening (6:30 pm – 7:30 pm). The temple is also where the annual Kandy Esala Perahera procession starts.

TIP | Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and legs (men and women both), and consider bringing a sarong. You’ll also need to take off your shoes, but there’s a shoe rack where you can leave them for a small donation.

ENTRANCE FEE | 2000 LKR (6 USD)

OPENING TIMES | Open Daily from 5.30 am to 8 pm

2. Explore The Royal Botanical Gardens

Just a short distance from Kandy lies the enchanting Peradeniya Botanic Garden, once exclusively reserved for the royalty of Kandy. Today, it stands as the largest botanic garden in Sri Lanka , open to the public. Exploring this green haven is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Kandy. With over 4,000 plant species, you can easily spend a delightful morning surrounded by diverse flora.

Marvel at the exquisite collection of exotic plants and flowers from around the globe , wander through coconut palm trees, explore the spice garden, traverse a giant bamboo forest, and stroll along a stately avenue of royal palms planted in 1950. Key attractions within the gardens include the Spice Garden, Royal Palm Avenue, Giant Bamboo Forest, Orchid House, and a captivating suspension bridge. Keep an eye out for playful monkeys and bats as you roam the extensive 60-hectare grounds, making sure to plan for 2-3 hours of exploration.

To reach the gardens from central Kandy, you can grab a tuk-tuk for a 30-minute ride, costing around 400 to 600 LKR (2-3$ USD). Another option is taking bus 644 from Kandy’s clock tower, and the bus ticket is just 20 LKR (0.10$ USD). 

ENTRANCE FEE | 2000 LKR ( 6 USD) for foreign tourists (adults)

OPENING TIMES | Open Daily from 7:30 AM to 5 PM

3. Wander Around Kandy Lake & the busy streets

One of the must-do things in Kandy is taking a leisurely stroll around the old town. Delve into the charming alleys and lively markets, immersing yourself in the authentic local atmosphere. The architecture is a blend of old colonial charm and traditional Sri Lankan building facades . Notable attractions within the old town include the Giragama Walawwa, the oldest former royal building in Kandy, the captivating Red Mosque of Kandy, and the vibrant Kataragama Devalaya Hindu temple.

After absorbing the cultural energy of the city, head to Kandy Lake for a relaxed stroll . Nestled in the heart of Kandy, the artificial manmade lake surprises with its peaceful ambiance, contrasting with the bustling road winding around it. The lake serves as a picturesque backdrop to key city attractions such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic and Udawattakele Forest Reserve. In the middle of the lake, a small island with palm trees adds to the charm. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife , including turtles, pelicans, snakes, water monitors, and various bird species residing around the lake.

4. Visit one of Kandy’s Museums

On a hot day, escaping the heat to one of Kandy’s museums is a great way to spend your time. The World Buddhist Museum is right within the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and it’s included in your temple ticket. This unique museum is set in a former palace of the Kandyan monarch and takes you through the history of Buddhism. It starts from its roots in India to its journey across the globe. The exhibits are organized by countries, showing their role in spreading Buddhism.

For a deeper dive into the history of Kandyan royalty and other aspects of Kandy’s culture, check out the National Museum of Kandy . It has an impressive collection of 4,000 artifacts, mainly from the Kandyan period (1592-1815 AD).

And if you have some extra time and a love for Sri Lankan tea, make sure to visit the Ceylon Tea Museum . It’s in an old tea factory and gives you the lowdown on tea production and the history of tea in Sri Lanka. It’s a cool journey into the world of Ceylon tea.

5. Hike up to the Big Buddha on the hill

Perched atop Bahirawa Kanda Hill is the iconic white Buddha statue , seated in a tranquil Nirvana pose. You can spot the statue from pretty much anywhere in the city.  Climbing up there gives you the most amazing views of Kandy. On a clear day, you can even see the rolling hills surrounding the city. Adjacent to the 27-meter-high statue lies the Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya Temple , welcoming worshipers and tourists alike.

Even though it’s just a 30-minute walk from Kandy’s center, we suggest grabbing a tuk-tuk for a round trip to the temple at 500 LKR (1.5 USD), getting you there in 5-10 minutes.

TIP | Before you start climbing the stairs to the temple, take off your shoes at the bottom as a sign of respect.

ENTRANCE FEE | The entrance fee to the Sri Maha Bodhi Temple is 300 LKR (1 USD).

OPENING TIMES | Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM.

6. Panoramic views from Kandy View Point

Who doesn’t appreciate a stunning viewpoint? For an excellent vantage spot with breathtaking panoramas of Kandy Lake, make your way to Kandy Viewpoint or Arthur’s Seat , nestled in the Kandy hills. From here, catch glimpses of the Big Buddha statue, the old town, and the Temple of the Tooth. As dusk settles in, the sunset over Kandy is a mesmerizing sight, and the city lights start to twinkle.

Whether you opt for the 1 km hike to the viewpoint or choose the quicker alternative of hiring a tuk-tuk, this experience ranks high among the most popular things to do in Kandy.

7. Attend a Kandyan Cultural Dance Show

One standout activity among the must things to do in Kandy is catching a traditional Kandyan cultural dance show . It’s a fantastic way to wrap up your day in Kandy! The performance features skilled dancers in elaborate costumes and headpieces, showcasing cultural traditions through traditional dances. The lyrics and dances often revolve around animals like the peacock, offering a vibrant depiction of local heritage. As a unique highlight, the show includes a captivating fire performance , featuring performers walking over fire—an exclusive spectacle you won’t find anywhere else in the country. It truly embodies the essence of Kandy!

These shows take place at three different venues around Kandy Lake , with ticket prices ranging from 1000-3500 LKR per person. Typically starting around 5 pm and lasting about an hour, it’s advisable to secure your tickets in the morning or arrive early before the show begins:

Kandyan Art Association & Cultural Centre (Show starts at 17:00): Situated on the northern side of the lake, this venue tends to be bustling with tourist buses. Arriving early is recommended as it can fill up quickly.

Kandy Lake Club (Show starts at 17:00): A slightly more upscale option, this venue features pricier tickets. Online reviews mention stunning costumes and a show that incorporates more acrobatics.

Mahanuwara YMBA (Show starts at 17:30): Located southwest of the lake, this lesser-known dance show at the YMBA guesthouse offers an equally impressive performance. The proceeds contribute to the Red Cross, making it a commendable choice. We highly recommend this hidden gem!

8. Ride the scenic train from Kandy To Ella

Once you’ve checked off the top things to do in Kandy, It’s time to venture to two fantastic destinations nearby: Nuwara Eliya and Ella. And what better way to embark on this hill country adventure than the iconic Kandy to Ella train ride ? It’s a standout experience in your three-week Sri Lanka itinerary . This scenic journey is known as one of the most picturesque train rides in the world, traversing historic stone bridges, lush green hills, and breathtaking cliff-sides.

As the train winds through tea plantations, you’re treated to stunning views , perfect for capturing those iconic Instagram-worthy shots. You’ve probably seen pictures of people hanging outside the train, and yes, it can be a bit chaotic. Yet, sitting in the open train doors with your feet dangling, feeling the wind in your face – it’s truly an unforgettable experience and ranks high among the best things to do in Kandy.

The Kandy to Ella train ride typically spans around 6-7 hours. Many travelers choose to break up the journey with a few days in Nuwara Eliya , conveniently positioned midway, making each leg approximately 3-4 hours. You can opt to take the train to Kandy from Nuwara Eliya or Ella or vice versa, depending on your route.

TIP | For reserved seats, make sure to book your train ticket online several weeks before your travel date! We recommend going for the second or third class for an immersive experience, hanging out the doors and soaking in the epic views. While first-class offers air conditioning, you won’t get the chance to open the windows or doors. Enjoy the ride!

Fun Things to do around Kandy (extra day tour)

9. climb the ambuluwawa tower.

If you find yourself with extra days in Kandy, it’s worth venturing beyond the city limits to explore the Ambuluwawa Tower . A short 30-minute trip from Kandy takes you to the Ambuluwawa complex. The highlight? The panoramic 360-degree view from the tower.

Moreover, the tower’s design exudes a futuristic vibe. It’s important to note that the stairs leading to the top can be quite narrow—definitely not ideal for those with a fear of heights! Plan to spend a minimum of 1-1.5 hours at Ambuluwawa, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings. Take time to explore the beautiful temples within the complex. Additionally, the entrance fee to Ambuluwawa Temple is a reasonable 1000 LKR (3 USD) for foreign adults.

10. Go hiking in the Knuckles Mountain Range

If you’re up for a peaceful day in nature outside Kandy, check out the Knuckles Mountain Range. It’s a beautiful spot with waterfalls, green hills, and lots of wildlife . Just a short thirty-minute drive northeast of Kandy, it’s perfect for a day trip.

Moreover, there are more than 30 hiking trails in the Knuckles Range , but it’s a good idea to join a trekking tour with a local guide. The trails aren’t well-marked, and it’s easy to get lost if you go on your own. On this private tour with round-trip transportation from Kandy , you’ll get to trek through gorgeous jungles, cross wooden bridges, and enjoy stunning panoramic views. Additionally, they’ll throw in a picnic lunch for you to enjoy in the middle of nature. It’s undeniably a great way to spend a day surrounded by the beauty of Knuckles Mountain Range and escape the hustle and bustle of Kandy.

Where to stay in Kandy, Sri Lanka?

Being the cultural hub of Sri Lanka, Kandy boasts a plethora of high-end accommodation options. However, given its status on the main tourist route of Sri Lanka, the city also provides a range of mid-range and budget hotels for those seeking more economical choices.

When it comes to choosing where to stay, we make it a point to thoroughly research our accommodations. We delve into hotel reviews and ensure that the place meets our specific criteria. Comfortable beds are a must, and in a warm country like Sri Lanka, having air-conditioning (or at least a fan) is a preference. Additionally, location matters to us, meaning we look for places within walking distance of the city center and key attractions. And, of course, an amazing breakfast is a non-negotiable.

For our stay in Kandy, E-Stay Hanthana , we opted for something slightly outside the center, nestled in the hills. In this guide, we recommend three accommodations for Kandy, catering to different budgets, and each comes highly praised in reviews. Moreover, if you’re looking for more options, you can explore a variety of accommodations in Kandy using Booking.com .

LUXURY ACCOMMODATION | Villa Rosa

Perched on a hillside, Villa Rosa offers a breathtaking view of the river, creating a serene atmosphere with its infinity pool and garden. The rooms are not only spacious but also incredibly comfortable, and some even provide stunning mountain views. What sets this place apart is the exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, ensuring your stay is nothing short of delightful. Complete with a cozy lounge area, television, library, and all the comforts of home, Villa Rosa provides a touch of luxury away from the bustling center of Kandy.

MID-RANGE ACCOMMODATION | E-Stay Hanthana

When it comes to E-Stay Hanthana , you’ll get to unwind in generously sized and comfortable rooms, each featuring a private balcony. What truly makes this place special is the warm hospitality of the local owners. To enhance your overall delightful experience, make sure to indulge in a delicious breakfast during your stay.

Higher Mid-range option: Kandy Tree Tops

BUDGET ACCOMMODATION | Kandy City Village

With a super friendly owner ready to cater to your every request, Kandy City Village offers cozy rooms, a hearty breakfast, and a central location with a short walk into the hills. It’s fantastic value for money, ensuring a pleasant stay without breaking the bank.

Higher Budget Option: The SkyDeck Kandy

Where to eat in Kandy

As the second largest city in Sri Lanka, Kandy boasts many amazing cafés & restaurants, there are so many options, that you will have no problem finding a nice place for your short stay:

Lunch & Dinner spots: 

Balaji Dosai – Vegetarian gem near the Temple of the Tooth. Must-try: Kara Dosa and Mango Lassi. A clean, inviting interior, prompt service, and a relaxed vibe.

Nagalingam’s Bhavan – For a no-frills Jain vegetarian experience, Nagalingam’s Bhavan serves homemade Indian curries. Opt for the thali, which includes mouthwatering curries, dal, fresh samosas, kotti, and a small dessert.

CAFE 1886 by Salgado Bakers – Cozy eatery in Kandy with a diverse menu. Highly recommended: Kothu. Friendly staff, relaxing ambiance, and a central location.

Worldspice – Located inside the Kandy City Center shopping mall, Worldspice is a food court with various counters serving global cuisines. From Sri Lankan and Italian to Thai, Chinese, and Indian, it offers a range of choices. We had a wonderful Indian curry here while seeking shelter from the rain.

Breakfast & Lunch Cafés:

Soul Food – A vegan restaurant with a touch of Westernized options, Soul Food offers healthy bowls, burgers, wraps, and pasta, all freshly made on the spot. With a good variety of dishes and a great atmosphere, it’s an excellent choice for breakfast or lunch.

Cafe Banana Chill – For a healthy start to your day, visit this cozy hipster place for local fruit smoothies, chia pudding, avocado toast, and other fresh and healthy vegan options.

Cafe Secret Alley — A colorful hipster café tucked away in an alley, Cafe Secret Alley serves awesome smoothie bowls. Don’t forget to check out the fun balcony with beanbags for a relaxing chill-out.

The Bakehouse Kandy – If you’re into pastries, don’t hesitate to drop by The Bakehouse. It’s an excellent venue to satisfy your inner sweet tooth. We took some pastries to go from their shop downstairs.

Buono – A beautiful coffee shop for a good cup of coffee, Buono is also an ideal place for breakfast, serving waffles and smoothie bowls.

How to get to Kandy?

How to get to kandy from nuwara eliya / ella.

Embark on the famous train journey from Ella or Nuwara Eliya to experience one of the world’s most beautiful rides, offering stunning views of tea plantations. The 7-hour journey through Sri Lanka’s scenic landscapes is a breathtaking experience. During peak season (December to March), especially for reserved seated tickets, booking in advance is recommended. Secure your spot through 12go , and consider a 2nd class reserved ticket for better comfort and more openable windows, perfect for Instagram-worthy pictures.

How to get to Kandy from Sigiriya / Dambulla

To travel from Sigiriya to Kandy, take a bus or tuk-tuk to reach Dambulla bus station . From there, catch either bus line 42 or 43 (Vavuniya-Kandy route), with buses departing every half an hour. Bus 42, at around 180 rupees, offers an economical option without air conditioning. For a more comfortable, air-conditioned ride, opt for bus 43 at 450 rupees, completing the journey in slightly over 2 hours.

How to get to Kandy from Colombo

If you wish to kickstart your backpacking adventure from Colombo to Kandy, the journey takes around 2-3 hours (traffic dependent). Here are your options:

Car: Consider using the PickMe App for the journey, which costs approximately 10,000 LKR (~$35).

Train: Opt for the train, the most affordable option, offering comfort and taking a similar time as a car or bus ride. Train rides usually cost between 4-8 dollars, depending on the class. Use 12Go Asia for online bookings .

Bus: Catch a bus from Colombo to Kandy, costing around $8 per person. Alternatively, choose shared minivans for a slightly pricier yet more comfortable option, ranging between $12-$14.

Practical Trip Planning Essentials

TRANSPORTATION |  For hassle-free bus, minivan, and train bookings across Sri Lanka, we recommend using the user-friendly platform  12go . Skip the queues and reserve your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.

ACCOMMODATION |  Booking affordable accommodations in Sri Lanka is effortless with  Booking.com . This platform is perfect for discovering budget-friendly hostels, guesthouses, and hotels tailored to your preferences.

FLIGHTS |  Find the best flight deals to Sri Lanka on  Skyscanner . Benefit from their feature highlighting the cheapest days to fly and the flexibility to search by month or region. 

TRAVEL INSURANCE |  Ensure comprehensive and reliable coverage for your backpacking journey in Sri Lanka with  Heymondo . Prioritize peace of mind with their trustworthy travel insurance options. Get 5% OFF through our link .

STAY CONNECTED |  Guarantee reliable internet access throughout your Sri Lanka trip by using  Airalo . Install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey for convenient connectivity.

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS |  Explore the best city tours, day excursions, safari trips, and cooking classes in Sri Lanka with  GetYourGuide  or  Viator .

VISA ORGANIZATION |  Check visa requirements for your passport nationality before your Sri Lanka trip with  iVisa.com .

We hope this Kandy guide helps you when planning for your exciting upcoming trip. You can show some ❤ and support for the blog and help us share more adventures! Our travels are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows us to keep writing helpful travel guides and gather information to make it easier for people to discover the world.

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Places to Visit in Kandy: Sri Lanka’s Cultural Capital

Your Sri Lanka itinerary will undoubtedly include at least one night in Kandy, especially if you plan to ride the infamous blue train from Kandy to Ella – reportedly one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.  Read on to discover some of the best places to visit in Kandy, along with recommendations on where to stay and eat, and tips for getting around the city.

Updated: April 2024

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. All this means is that if you make a purchase through one of the links I have provided, I will earn a small commission as a result but the cost to you will remain exactly the same.

It’s probably quite difficult to visit Sri Lanka without spending some time in the country’s second city.  Kandy is both the gateway to Sri Lanka’s hill country and the island’s cultural capital.

Set amidst the dense forests and tea plantations of Sri Lanka’s central province, not far from the hiking trails of the spectacular (and lesser-visited) Knuckles Mountain Range National Park, Kandy served as the capital of the last Sinhalese kingdom, which ultimately fell to the British in 1815.

Although it’s Sri Lanka’s second largest city (with a population of 125,000 inhabitants), Kandy – meaning ‘hill’ – still retains a surprisingly small-town atmosphere.  The picturesque lake, around which life centres,  is a fundamental part of what creates this vibe.

I spent three nights in Kandy in March 2020.  I had arranged to do some hiking in the Knuckles Mountain Range on my second full day in the city, but unfortunately the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic put a stop to that .  So, instead I was able to get to know the city a little better than would initially have been possible, had everything gone according to plan.  Proof that good things can happen as a result of thwarted plans!

I also spent a further two nights in the city on my second trip to Sri Lanka in March 2024.  This most recent trip gave me the opportunity to check out a few of the places to visit in Kandy  that I hadn’t been able to make it to the first time around.

Getting to Kandy

From Colombo | Kandy is 96 kilometres northeast of the island’s capital, Colombo.  The journey takes between two and a half and three hours by train or between three and four hours by bus.   Trains from Colombo to Kandy run from the Colombo Fort Railway Station and it’s advisable to book in advance to secure a seat.  Ticket prices range from 180-500 LKR, depending upon which class you wish to travel in.  However, seats can only be reserved in first and second class carriages.

Bus tickets on the other hand can only be bought on the day of travel, from the conductor on the bus.  A ticket, unfortunately, does not guarantee you a seat.  However, travelling by public bus is cheaper, if you’re on a strict budget.  A one-way ticket will cost you 155-240 LKR.  Buses depart from Bastian Mawatha Station – also in the Fort district.

From Sigiriya | This is where I travelled to Kandy from, as I wanted to explore the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa before heading south.  The nearest train station to Sigiriya is Habarana.  However, in order to get to Kandy from there, you would have to go via Colombo (an eight-hour journey altogether!), so I chose to take the public bus.  Catch a tuk-tuk to the Inamaluwa Junction and from there you’ll be able to hop on a direct bus to Kandy’s Goods Shed Bus Station.  The journey takes approximately three hours.  Direct buses to Kandy also leave from Dambulla.

Accommodation in Kandy

The cheapest accommodation options in Sri Lanka seem to be what are known as ‘homestays.’  You rent a room in a local family’s home for a rate which often includes your breakfast every morning.  Some homestays include your own private bathroom; some don’t.  So, make sure you check the details when you book, for clarification.

Accommodation in Kandy is either close to the city centre or it’s up in the hills surrounding the city.  The former is more convenient for exploring the city, whereas the latter is more peaceful and picturesque and will often afford you a slightly cheaper room rate and better views.

I stayed around one and a half kilometres from the western edge of Kandy Lake, down by the Kandy General Hospital.  It was close enough to be able to walk to the centre, yet far enough away to benefit from a slightly better quality of accommodation for a more affordable price.   Kandy City Village Homestay  is impeccably clean, the rooms are spacious, and there’s a lovely garden to sit out in as the sun goes down in the evening.  The hosts were also incredibly welcoming and accommodating (even in spite of the growing fears surrounding the coronavirus pandemic) and the breakfast they served me each morning was a veritable feast that I couldn’t manage to finish even half of.  I stayed in a deluxe double room on the top floor for £16 per night (correct March 2020).

Incidentally, this is also the best side of town to be on if you plan to visit Kandy’s botanical gardens, its ‘Western Temples’ or Ambuluwawa Tower — more on these attractions later in this post.

If you’d prefer to be more central, Cafe Aroma Inn is a good choice, and is where I stayed in 2024, because Kandy City Village Homestay did not have availability on my second night in the city. Although I wouldn’t advise eating in the cafe here (my breakfast was sub-standard and over-priced), the rooms themselves are lovely and the staff are friendly enough and all speak good English.

Getting around Kandy

If I were to offer you just one piece of advice for getting around Kandy, it would be to download the ‘Pick Me’ app .

This is Sri Lanka’s answer to Uber, and is a way of pre-booking tuk-tuks that works out much cheaper than hailing them down in the street and attempting to haggle with the driver.  Booking this way also means that you don’t have to carry lots of small change around with you.

Having said that, you’ll find that many of Kandy’s attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.  So, you’ll only really need to use a tuk-tuk in order to visit sights on the outskirts of the city, and to travel around after dark.  Kandy is a pretty safe city, but I don’t like to take risks when I travel alone.

Places to visit in Kandy

There are enough places to visit in Kandy and its outskirts to keep you busy for at least a couple of days.  So, my recommendation (if you have time) would be to book two or three nights here.

I’ve not listed these places to visit in Kandy in any particular order, apart from the fact that I’ve grouped those in the centre of Kandy together first, followed by those on the outskirts of the city.

1 | Temple of the Sacred Tooth

Let’s kick off with Kandy’s star attraction! The Temple of the Sacred Tooth – also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa – is Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist shrine.  It’s located on the northern shores of Kandy Lake and is said to house the country’s most significant Buddhist relic – a tooth of the Buddha.

Legend has it that the sacred tooth was snatched from the flames of the Buddha’s funeral pyre in 483 BC and subsequently smuggled into Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD.

At first it was taken to Anuradhapura, and has since been kept in various different locations in Sri Lanka before finally finding a permanent home in Kandy after the current Temple of the Sacred Tooth was constructed in the early 1700s.

The temple is a pilgrimage site for Sri Lankan Buddhists, so you’ll find many more Sri Lankan people at the temple at any given time than you will foreign tourists.

Even if you’re not religious, the temple is a beautiful building, both inside and out, and is an absolute must-see if you’re visiting the city.  In March 2020, the admission fee was 1500 LKR (£6.42). Allow a couple of hours to have a thorough look around.

Good to know : Both men and women need to cover up their legs and shoulders.  Shoes must be removed before entering the temple.

2 | Kandy Lake

The artificial lake – also known as Kiri Muhud  (‘The Sea of Milk’) – was built in 1807 by Sri Wickrama Rajasinha, the last ruler of the kingdom of Kandy.   He also commissioned a skilled architect to build a decorative wall around the lake, but unfortunately the city was captured by the British before it could be finished.

Walking the 3.2 kilometre circumference of Kandy Lake is a surprisingly peaceful activity despite the bustling road that winds around it.  It’s also a great way of orientating yourself with the city.  The prettiest part is definitely the section adjacent to and a little further along from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, but you’ll probably find yourself reaching for your camera at regular intervals the whole way around.

You may even be lucky enough to spot a monitor lizard sunning himself on the shores of the lake, beneath the shade of the trees.

In the centre of the lake is an island that was once used as a summer house for Sri Wickrama Rajasinha’s personal harem until the British successfully re-captured Kandy in 1815.  It was then used as an ammunition store and the fortress-style parapet around the perimeter was subsequently added.

The only other note-worthy structure on the lake is the Queen’s Bathing Pavillion (‘ Ulpange ‘), which you’ll find in front of the entrance to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth.  This was part of the palace complex built by Sri Wickrama Rajasinha, and was – as the name suggests – used by the Queens for bathing.  The British later converted it to a library and now it is used as a police post.

3 | Udawattakele Sanctuary

Would you believe that, right in the centre of Kandy, just behind the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, there is a massive 257-acre forest reserve?  No, I wouldn’t have either unless I’d done my research about places to visit in Kandy, in preparation for my trip.

Once the King’s personal garden, Udawattakele was opened as a forest reserve in 1856 and became a sanctuary in 1938.    It’s famously home to over 400 plant species (including several giant lianas – a type of tree vine), 70 varieties of bird and 32 different kinds of butterfly.

There’s a five-kilometre hiking trail you can follow through the sanctuary, which takes you past some medieval rock dwellings and through the Garrison Cemetery.

Good to know : If you’d like to visit Udawattakele Sanctuary, you’ll  find the entrance around a 15-20 minute walk from the Temple of the Tooth.  Head north along the D.S. Senanayaka Veediya road and after 500 metres turn right at the post office near the Kandy Municipality, and follow the road up the hill. The entrance is on the right hand side of the Tapovanaya Monastery.   Don’t forget to take a photograph of the map as you enter the forest, as there’s not much in the way of signage along the trails.

4 | Arthur’s Seat

Unless you’ve got a drone (and I’m not sure what the rules are around flying them in Kandy anyway), this is the place to head for the best views of Kandy Lake.

Legend has it that a British tea planter named Mr. Arthur once owned a bungalow that was situated above the lookout point, and that he used to enjoy views of Kandy from a stone chair beneath a tree in front of his bungalow.    Although the original seat was destroyed, the current viewing platform incorporates a symbolical seat made out of the original rock slab.

5 | Helga’s Folly

Who else likes to seek out the quirky and unusual when they travel?  If you answered “yes” then Helga’s Folly may be right up your street!  This is definitely one of the more alternative places to visit in Kandy.

When I discovered that Kandy was home to a bizarre hotel/art gallery/surrealist fantasy that “could have been dreamt up as a joint venture between Gaudi and Dali” (Lonely Planet), I knew I had to check it out.

The road to Helga’s Folly climbs up from the eastern end of Kandy Lake and affords some incredible views back down on to the city.  And Helga’s Folly (when you can find it) is indeed as bizarre as Lonely Planet promised it would be.

The only people I saw during my visit were the staff.  It was almost as though all the guests had fled the hotel in a hurry, not even stopping long enough to pause the record on the gramophone before they left.

As I wandered alone along long, dark corridors and through extravagantly furnished rooms, it felt like the eyes of the numerous fictional characters painted on the walls were following me as I walked.

Good to know : If you punch ‘Helga’s Folly’ into either Google Maps or Maps.me, neither will take you to the correct location.  I’d almost given up all hope of finding the place (deciding that it must have closed down after my Lonely Planet Sri Lanka guidebook  was published) when I hailed down a passing tuk-tuk driver who pointed me in the right direction.  You need to continue along Rajapihilla Mawatha as far as Days Inn Kandy, where you’ll see a sign for Helga’s Folly.  Follow the sign uphill along a rough unpaved track that doubles back along the same direction as the road you’ve just walked, and after around 100 metres you’ll arrive at the entrance.

Fun fact : The Stereophonics famously wrote their song ‘Madame Helga’ about the owner of Helga’s Folly.

6 | Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

Located in Bahirawakanda, approximately two kilometres from the city centre,  Sri Maha Bodhi Temple is known for its giant white Buddha statue and – due to its elevated position – can be seen from almost anywhere in Kandy.

The Buddha is 26.8 metres tall and is one of the largest Buddha statues in the whole of Sri Lanka.   Whilst it’s not very easy to photograph the statue itself due to the temple being surrounded by dense vegetation in every direction, you can climb the set of stairs that run behind it for some spectacular views of Kandy.

7 | Peradeniya Botanic Gardens

Of all the places to visit in Kandy, this was one that – along with the Temple of the Sacred Tooth – I was most excited about visiting.   Unfortunately, fate had other ideas in 2020.  In response to the increasing spread of the coronavirus, Sri Lanka’s government closed all the country’s national parks and gardens on 15 March 2020 – the day before I arrived in the city.  However, in 2024, I was finally able to visit.  And, it definitely lived up to all expectations!

The stunning Peradeniya Botanic Gardens spread over a massive 147-acre area six kilometres from central Kandy, and were once reserved exclusively for Kandyan royalty before the ruling British opened them to the public in 1843.

You’ve probably seen photographs of the insta-worthy avenue of royal palms, but the gardens are also famous for their huge 40-metre-high Burma bamboo, a giant Javan fig tree,  and an impressive collection of orchids.  You might also want to check out the unusual Cannonball tree, planted in 1901 by King George and Queen Mary.  Incidentally, you’ll also find one in Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo.

Good to know : Bus number 644 will take you up to the gardens.  Catch it from Kandy’s clock tower for 20 LKR one-way.   Alternatively, you can book yourself a tuk-tuk via the PickMe app.

Due to their location, the gardens can be visited as part of the Kandy Three Temple Loop – incorporating Lankatilake Temple, Embekka Devale and Gadaladeniya Temple.

8 | Lankatilake Temple

I absolutely adored this place!  In fact, I’d even go so far as to say that it was my favourite of all the places to visit in Kandy.  Lankatilake Temple is located in the village of  Rabbegamuwa, in a spectacular setting perched atop a rocky outcrop surrounded by rice fields and tea plantations.

Dating back to the 14th century and divided into two halves – one half Buddhist and one half Hindu – Lankatilake Temple is considered to be THE most magnificent architectural structure created during the Gampola era (1341-1408).  It’s even depicted on Sri Lanka’s 500 rupee note!

The eastern entrance will take you into the Buddhist half of the temple, which features an impressive image house containing a large seated Buddha and two standing Buddhas at either side, along with some incredibly well-preserved frescos covering the walls and ceiling.

On the western side is the entrance to the Hindu half, known as the Temple of the Gods.

You’ll need to enlist the services of the temple caretaker in order to have a look inside both the Buddha Image House and the Temple of the Gods .  Fortunately, I arrived on site at the same time as a couple of French tourists and their Sri Lankan guide, who also spoke excellent English.  So, as well as translating the caretaker’s words into French, he also offered me an English commentary.

From what I’ve read online, I understand that the caretaker does speak a little English and is keen to practice with English-speaking visitors, but I couldn’t help feeling that – by having a translator on hand – I got a lot more out of the visit than I may otherwise have done.

9 | Gadaladeniya Temple

Located just three kilometres from Lankatilake, Gadaladeniya also dates back to the 14th century and is considered to be one of the largest rock temples in Sri Lanka.

The Buddhist-Hindu temple is built on a rocky outcrop that’s covered with small pools filled with water lilies, and entry is via a series of steps cut into the rock.

Gadaladeniya is famous for its beautiful stone carvings, and the main shrine contains an equally magnificent, gilded seated Buddha.

10 | Embekka Devale

With the exception of the sanctum, Embekka Devale is made entirely out of wood.  It’s a 14th century Hindu temple that’s dedicated to the Hindu deity Murugan.

There are a total of 514 designs carved into the wood, ranging from lotus flowers to female dancers and a selection of mythical hybrid creatures.  The carvings have been acknowledged by UNESCO as being among the  best and most detailed in the world.

11 | Nelligala International Buddhist Centre, Kandy

After discovering that both Gadaladeniya Temple and Embekka Devale were closed during my 2020 visit, my tuk-tuk driver took it upon himself to take me to Nelligala International Buddhist Centre instead.    

Nelligala was only built as recently as 2015 (and there was still plenty of construction work going on when I visited), and for that reason it didn’t have the same appeal to me as the beautiful 14th century Lankatilake.

However, the 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside really were something else.  You can see Hanathana Mountain Range, Alagalla Mountain, Batalegala and Sri Pada Mountain from the temple’s grounds.

12 | Ambuluwawa Tower

Of all the places to visit in Kandy, this was —along with Lankatilake Temple and Peradeniya Botanic Gardens — one of my absolute favourites.

This is the Ambuluwawa Tower, part of the Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Reserve – located 3567 metres above sea level, approximately an hour south of Kandy.

Climbing the 55-metre tower is not for the faint-hearted, as the safety rail is pretty low (even for someone who’s only 5’1) and the stairway gets so narrow towards the top that passing others means that one of you has to tuck yourself into one of the passing ‘holes’ (again, a tight fit even for me!) or squeeze right up against said low handrail (eek!).

Good to know : To get to the Ambuluwawa Tower, you can either take bus number 718 from Kandy’s Goods Shed Bus Station to Gampola and then a tuk-tuk up to the tower or take a tuk-tuk the whole way.  The entry fee to the Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Reserve is 2000 LKR (correct, March 2024).

The location of all the places to visit in Kandy that I have mentioned in this post can be found on the map below.

Places to eat in Kandy

1| balaji dosai.

Let’s kick off with one of the best places to visit in Kandy to eat if you’re on a budget.  I wasn’t expecting much from Balaji Dosai and the interior doesn’t promise much; there are no frills in this joint!  But the reality is that the food at Balaji Dosai is non-pretentious, tasty, filling, and incredibly cheap.  You can order their signature masala dosa, accompanied by a cup of warming masala chai for just 350 LKR (£1.49).    I can personally recommend their cheese dosa for an extra 100 rupees (42 pence).

Address : 3 DS Senanayake Veediya, Kandy | Opening hours : 07:00-21:30 hours Monday-Sunday

If you want to satisfy your craving for good coffee and avocado toast, this is the place to come!  Hipster joint Buono seems to be a favourite with Western tourists and expats but that certainly doesn’t detract from its appeal.  This is a lovely laid back establishment which promotes sustainable practices and serves food that reminds you of home but with a Sri Lankan twist.

I arrived here mid-afternoon (as luck would have it, just before a huge thunderstorm), and was in desperate need of something to drink that wasn’t water, so I ordered a papaya smoothie (complete with metal straw, no less) and a pot of local tea, accompanied by the most amazing chickpea salad. And let me tell you, it was the best thing ever.  I always struggle to eat healthily when I travel on a budget, and I really miss my fresh fruit and veggies, so this was just what the doctor ordered.  Yes, it’s pricier than Balaji Dosai, but it felt like such a welcoming little spot.

There are also handicrafts, clothing and coffee for sale here, and 100% of all proceeds help to support local community projects – primarily Child Action Lanka, a charity that provides daily meals, school supplies and education to children.

Address : 12 Lamagaraya Road, Kandy | Opening hours : 08:00-18:00 hours Monday-Saturday.

3 | Cafe Secret Alley

This little place is similar to Buono, serving great coffee, all-day breakfasts, beautifully presented smoothie bowls, and a selection of gourmet sandwiches and tasty salads.  Avocado toast is of course on the menu, too.  The ‘secret alley’ is not that difficult to find, but it’s further along Kotugodalla Street (coming from the Temple of the Tooth) than Google Maps thinks it is.

Address : 10/1/1/1, E L Senanayake Veediya, Kandy | Opening hours : 07:00-17:00 hours Monday-Saturday.

4 | Vito Wood Fired Pizza

If you think that Sri Lanka  is not the kind of country in which you’d expect to be served great pizza then think again!  This place gets rave reviews and many of the tables offer lovely views of Kandy Lake.

Address : 56 Saranankara Rd, Kandy | Opening hours : 12:00-21:30 hours Monday-Sunday.

5 | Vegan Tranquil Rose  

I’m not vegan (or even completely vegetarian; I eat fish on the odd occasion) but I love eating vegan food when I travel and will always seek out vegan cafes and restaurants.  As soon as I saw photos of the colourful, beautifully-presented dishes on the menu here, I immediately added it to my places to visit in Kandy itinerary.

There are seats indoors, but I loved dining up on their small rooftop terrace, surrounded by plants and birdsong and with the distant thrum of the city down below.

Incidentally, there are vegetarian options on the menu as well as vegan.  So, if you’re craving cheese then you’ll find dishes here to satisfy this craving.  I ordered the paneer quesadillas, which were delicious.

Address : 63/1 Colombo St, Kandy | Opening hours : 07:00-22:00 hours Monday-Sunday.

6 | Cafe Banana Chill

This is not somewhere you’re necessarily going to stumble across because it’s located some distance uphill at the opposite end of Kandy Lake to the centre of the city.  But, it’s definitely worth making the short(ish) walk (it’s around one kilometre from the Temple of the Tooth) to eat there.

The food and drinks are all freshly-made to order (I know this because what was available on the menu depended upon which ingredients they had in stock), and are a delicious and healthy mix of nourishing bowls, wraps and various toppings on toast, along with fresh juices, coffees and milkshakes.  The guy who runs the place is super welcoming and laid back and has a great sense of humour, which compliments the wonderfully chilled vibe here. I can recommend the brunch bowl and the passionfruit and mint iced tea.

Address : 129/8B Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Kandy | Opening hours : 07:00-19:00 hours Monday-Sunday.

And that’s my round-up of some of the best places to visit in Kandy.  If you know of any more that you think I should include, please let me know in the comments below!

Once you’ve checked off a few of the places to visit in Kandy, if you’re interested in making any day trips from the city before you board the train to Ella, then Get Your Guide run several rather fabulous looking tours (below).

If you like this article, please share it on social media using the share buttons at the top of the post.   And if you’d like to save it for reading later, why not pin to one of your Pinterest boards? Alternatively you can follow along on Facebook or Twitter , or you can look me up on Instagram or Pinterest too!

Kiara Gallop

Hi I'm Kiara, the travel blogger and photographer behind Gallop Around The Globe.I can usually be found hiking up mountains, getting lost in the cobblestone streets of my favourite cities, making friends with a furry feline or two, photographing cacti, or grazing on olives and cheese.

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Extremely useful article with lovely pictures. Thank you very much for showing the beauty of Kandy to the world.!

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12 Best Things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The cultural capital of the country, Kandy is set almost slap bang in the center of Sri Lanka and was once home to the island nation’s kings and queens of old. As it was only conquered by the British in 1815, the city still proudly showcases its rich history and heritage, with lots of wonderful palaces and temples found around town. Of these, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is undoubtedly the most impressive tourist attraction and is counted among the most sacred Buddhist sites on Earth.

Set among rolling hills covered in lush forests, Kandy is centered around a lovely lake of the same name. While the scenery in and around Kandy is spectacular, the city itself also makes for a fine sight, as beautiful Kandyan architecture lies side by side with colonial-era buildings.

Once a year, the city hosts the magnificent Esala Perahera festival; this really is one of the best things to do in Kandy, as its rich history and culture come alive before your eyes.

12. New Ranweli Spice Garden

As Sri Lanka is famed for its spices, it is well worth heading to New Ranweli Spice Garden to smell, taste, and learn all about the amazing plants that have had such a profound impact on the island’s history. Set in a very peaceful and pleasant place on the outskirts of Kandy, the garden is lovely to wander around, with the smell of various spices wafting through the air.

As well as learning how cocoa, peppercorns, and vanilla are grown, you can also sample these tasty spices or buy some in the shop to take home with you.

11. World Buddhist Museum

Set within the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic complex, this fantastic museum documents the expansion and history of Buddhism around the globe. Located in the city’s former High Court building that dates to Victorian times, its large collection has lots of interesting photos and displays for you to peruse, as well as models, statues, and paintings.

These tell you the story of the Buddha, as well as the different belief systems and forms of worship in countries as varied as India, Japan, and Afghanistan. Well worth visiting, the World Buddhist Museum and its informative yet interesting exhibits will help you to better understand and appreciate the incredible temple it is connected to.

10. St Paul’s Church

Built by the British between 1843 and 1852, St Paul’s Church was once used by the colonial troops garrisoned nearby. Somewhat fittingly, its rusty-red crenelated tower rises dramatically into the sky, both imposing and impregnable at the same time. It looks more like part of a castle than a church.

While its interior is quite austere, there are some delightful scenes of the Bible on the walls, as well as some fine stained-glass windows. Neo-Gothic in style, the Garrison Church, as it is often nicknamed, is one of the city’s most recognizable remnants of British colonial rule and is located right in the center of town.

9. Royal Palace of Kandy

Now home to the brilliant National Museum of Kandy, the Royal Palace is where the Sinhalese monarchs of times gone by used to reside until the British conquered the kingdom in 1815. Dating to 1634, the palace complex features some magnificent Kandyan architecture, with lots of impressive pavilions, halls, and temples scattered around its grounds.

Besides the amazing buildings on show, there are loads of fantastic artifacts and exhibitions for you to peruse that date both to the Kandian era and colonial times. Lying between Udawattakele Forest Reserve and Kandy Lake, with the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic right next to it, the Royal Palace of Kandy is one of the best places to learn more about the nation’s captivating culture, history, and heritage.

8. Perahera Festival

A phenomenal event to witness, the Festival of the Tooth (as Esala Perahera is also known) takes place every July or August and is a must-see if you’re in town. Over the course of two or so weeks, a whole host of processions and parades take place. These honor the Sacred Tooth Relic for which the city is so renowned.

With lots of astonishing cultural dances and fire performances to check out, as well as parades of elephants dressed in religious garments, Perahera Festival promises to be unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

7. Ceylon Tea Museum

Another of the nation’s most important products, the Ceylon Tea Museum takes you on a riveting journey through the history of Sri Lankan tea. Set in the Hanthana Tea Factory, which was built in 1925, the museum has lots of interesting exhibits for you to peruse on the cultivation of tea plants, the machinery and utensils used to harvest them, and famous tea pioneers.

After learning all there is to know about the process and history behind it, you can sample some of the country’s brews yourself in its charming little tea-room.

6. Lankatilaka Temple

Located just half an hour’s drive to the southwest of the city, Lankatilaka Temple is home to some utterly brilliant Sinhalese architecture and artworks and is definitely worth checking out if you have the chance. Built atop a natural rock some time in the 14th century, the temple’s sparkling white walls are beautifully embellished and adorned with statues and bas-reliefs.

Inside is just as beguiling, with Kandyan era paintings and sculptures covering the walls and ceiling. Spanning three stories, the splendid Lankatilaka Temple is one of the finest examples of Gampola-era architecture around.

5. Kandy Lake

Lying right at the heart of the city, Kandy Lake is human-made and was created all the way back in 1807 by its then ruler Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. Surrounded by trees, with the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic lying on its shores, the lake paints a very pretty picture and is a great place to go for a stroll.

Numerous myths and legends swirl around the lake, with the small island at its center said to be connected to the Royal Palace by way of an underwater tunnel. As the story goes, the king and his harem would use it when they went bathing in the lake.

4. Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya

As it is home to one of the largest and most beautiful statues of the Buddha in Sri Lanka, the Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya temple is one of Kandy’s most popular tourist attractions. Set among the wooded hills that lie just to the west to the city center, the temple’s scenic setting makes it the perfect place to go if you want to escape from Kandy’s hustle and bustle for a bit.

Towering to over 26 meters, the dazzlingly white statue depicts the Buddha in a meditation pose and is the undoubted star of the show. One of the most photographed monuments in Kandy, Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue lies at the top of a long flight of stairs and can be seen poking its head above the surrounding treetops from many points in the city.

3. British Garrison Cemetery

Nestled away on the outskirts of Udawattakele Forest Reserve overlooking Kandy Lake, the British Garrison Cemetery is still caringly tended to to this day. Its manicured grounds are dotted with tombs, headstones, and small obelisks. Used between 1817 and 1873, it is here that the British dead were buried, with many of the men, women, and children having succumbed to either cholera or malaria.

Despite its rather somber atmosphere, the cemetery is set in a very pretty spot and is well worth stopping by for the insight it offers up into the city and country’s colonial past.

2. Udawattakele Forest Reserve

Covering the hillside overlooking both the Royal Palace of Kandy and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, it is in Udawattakele that kings and queens of years gone by used to go for a stroll and immerse themselves in nature. Now a forest reserve, the park is home to lots of wonderful fauna and flora, with a number of lovely paths and trails snaking their way through the dense undergrowth.

Besides the brightly-colored birds that flock overheard, from time to time, you can also spot pangolins, macaques, and civets hidden away among the foliage. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the delightful nature and stunning scenery on show in Udawattakele Forest Reserve makes it a marvelous place to visit.

1. Temple of the Tooth

One of the most sacred sites in the whole of Sri Lanka, the Temple of the Tooth is home to one of Buddhism’s most revered relics – a tooth from the Buddha himself. The resplendent golden-roofed temple is a fitting location for such an important relic. Although you can’t actually see it for yourself, the ornate gold casket in which it is enclosed already makes for an impressive sight.

The reverent atmosphere makes the temple a special place to visit, and rituals are performed here thrice daily. While the tooth is believed to have been brought to the island in the third century, the gorgeous temple and shrine were built many centuries later. Part of the Royal Palace, the Temple of the Tooth is the most important and popular sight in town and shouldn’t be missed out on when exploring Kandy’s many delights.

Best Time to Visit Kandy

Set atop a plateau surrounded by rainforest-clad mountains and tea plantations, Kandy sees the most visitors in the drier months of July to September and December to March. Outside of these periods, the city is much quieter and cheaper as the torrential monsoon downpours put most people off.

August is the absolute peak season as its elaborate ten-day-long Esala Perahera processions and all its elephants attract such huge crowds. Prices are at their highest with everywhere completely packed. July and September also remain very busy with temperatures averaging 27 to 28°C (80 to 82°F) perfect for exploring its temples and gardens.

Although Kandy still sees a lot of rain in December, many head here for the holidays with its surrounding hills looking their greenest after the monsoon months. Prices are again at their most expensive.

The number of tourists visiting remains high throughout January, February and March – the driest months of the year. As there is barely any rain and much less humidity, sightseeing or hiking about its hills is very pleasant. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year festivities in April also draw massive crowds to Kandy.

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8 Wonderful things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka's city of kings

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka lies Kandy, a vibrant city that is best known for its dignified reputation as the spiritual and cultural capital of the island.

The foremost reason for this is Kandy’s number one attraction; the Temple of the Tooth, an astonishing religious centre that is considered one of Sri Lanka’s holiest places.

Also, Kandy is now world-famous as one of the gateways to the most spectacular train journey in the world, running between the ancient kingdom of Kandy and the lush mountain town of Ella .

But to me, Kandy is more than just a stepping stone to Sri Lanka’s famous Ella to Kandy train ride.

The former City of Kings is in fact a great town to get a feel for everyday Sri Lankan life.

Whether you’re enjoying a calm afternoon at the iconic Kandy Lake, experience the hustle and bustle of the intoxicating Kandy Market, admiring the picture-perfect views from the Big Buddha statue, or simply roam endlessly through the lively streets, Kandy clearly knows how to emphasize its charms.

To help you explore the very best of Kandy, I’ve put together this guide, including my favourite things to see and do – plus advice on where to stay, when to visit and how to get there.

These are my absolute favourite things to do in Kandy and surrounds.

If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and support my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying a virtual coffee  here.

Where to stay in Kandy

Cafe Aroma Inn | Spacious air-conditioned rooms at the heart of Kandy for a good Quality-Price-Ratio.

Range Hotel Kandy | Simple, good rooms and a pool with a view make this hotel perfect for some afternoon relaxing.

Dumbara Peak Residence | Comfortable double rooms, a great rain shower and located in the town centre of Kandy.

Alternatively, search for accommodations in Kandy on booking.com .

8 Wonderful things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

#1 visit the temple of the sacred tooth relic.

At the heartbeat of the vibrant city is one of the most sacred Buddhist places of pilgrimage in the world. This is mainly because the legend says a tooth of Buddha is kept here.

The most important Buddhist relic of Sri Lanka remains safe in a gold casket under the roof of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. Every day, thousands of Buddhists come by to honour and celebrate the Sacred Tooth Relic.

The Sri Dalada Maligawa was built by the Kandyan kings between 1687 and 1707 to house the sacred relic. The temple since then became the number one attraction in Kandy.

The best time to visit the Temple of the Tooth is during Buddha Puja. During this ceremony, the casket, containing the Sacred Tooth Relic, is revealed to its worshippers.

Those spiritual practices are held three times a day and are really intriguing to witness. As always, respect religious customs.

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Temple of the Tooth Relic

How to get to the Temple of the Tooth Relic | This one is quite straightforward. From the city centre walk in the direction of Kandy Lake. Once you arrived at the lake you’ll see the complex on your left hand.

It is also an option to join this all-inclusive Kandy city tour . For prices and availability click here .

Ceremony times | 05:30 – 07:00 | 09:30 – 11:00 | 18:30 – 20:00 | For more information click here .

Cost | 1.500 LKR ($8,5) per person

2 | CLIMB YOUR WAY TO THE BAHIRAWAKANDA VIHARA BUDDHA STATUE

Brilliantly positioned, on top of the Bahirawa Kanda hill and to be seen from various points in town is the majestic Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue.

A visit to the big Buddha in Kandy brings a sense of peace and harmony, not to mention an impressive panorama view.

With 27 meters tall it is one of the largest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. Even more notable is the charming atmosphere created by the Buddha overlooking Kandy with a serene facial expression.

Don’t forget to remove your hat and shoes when entering the temple complex.

Where | Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

How to get to the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue | The Big Buddha in Kandy is at 1.2km away from the city centre. From the Bahirawa Kanda Road, it is around 750 meters walking with an incline of 26 meters.

Cost | 250 LKR ($1,4) per person

3 | TAKE A WALK AROUND KANDY LAKE

Kandy Lake is an iconic place where you’ll find calm and serenity at the heart of the vibrant city.

Taking a walk around the Kiri Muhuda lake is both peaceful and charming. The beautiful area around the lake is home to some of the best activities in Kandy, think of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the Udawattakele Forest.

During sunset, the lake turns into a huge reflecting mirror which is magnificent to observe. Locals appreciate hanging out around the Kandy Lake while the sun slowly drops below the horizon. You’ll understand why once you experienced a vibrant and peaceful atmosphere for yourself.

Where | Kandy Lake

How to get to Kandy Lake | For Kandy Lake you don’t need any directions. You simply can’t go around it when in Kandy. Ooh, you actually can, takes about an hour to walk through.

4 | CLEAR YOUR MIND AT THE UDAWATTEKELE SANCTUARY

In the midst of the lively, sometimes chaotic city center of Kandy is a hill-ridge that is home to the Udawattakele Forest Reserve.

The Udawattekele Sanctuary is perfect for a quiet and peaceful walk away from the bustling city. The urban forest that was once only open for royal blood is home to over 400 species of plants, 70 species of birds and several mammals.

A walk through the sanctuary brings you along a few interesting sights.

By following the path that walks through the sanctuary you’ll come along the highest peak of Kodimale, the Senkanda Cave, the water pond and some interesting Buddhist temples. The duration of a round trip is approximately 5km.

Where | Udawattekele Sanctuary

How to get to the Udawattakele Forest Reserve | By taking a 15-minute walk, starting at the Temple of the Tooth. Follow the DS Senanayake Veediya road until you reach the post office near the Kandy Municipality. Turn right at the post office and follow the road uphill.

Cost | 670 LKR ($3,75) per person

5 | EXPERIENCE PURE BLISS DURING THE KANDY TO ELLA TRAIN RIDE

If both Ella and Kandy are on your Sri Lanka itinerary, this beautiful train journey is a must. The 7-hour train ride is incredibly charming and guarantees memories that last a lifetime.

The most authentic experience is between the locals in the 3rd class, which is also the cheapest option. The vibe that reigns inside the dusty train cabins is extraordinary at it’s finest. Never ever had I experienced such an authentic journey in my life.

While the train slowly navigates along the winding tracks you’ll pass dense forest hills, vibrant local villages and hundreds of flourishing tea fields. Literally everything the light touches is pure beauty and bliss. Try to reach for an open door or a window seat once you’ll reach the most picturesque part of the journey: Nanu Oya to Ella.

Getting a ticket on the day of departing can be difficult due to the still-rising of popularity. To be sure you’ll have a spot on the train you do wise to buy a ticket 1 – 2 days in advance. You can also book a ticket online by clicking here .

Where | Kandy Railway Station

Train times from Kandy to Ella | Daily 08:47 and 11:10. More information on train times here .

Cost | 2nd class: 250 LKR ($1,50) per person, 3rd class: 180 LKR ($1,-) per person

Cost online | 1st class reserved AC: 3.200 LKR per person ($18,-), 2nd class reserved no AC: 3.000 LKR ($16) per person.

6 | WANDER AROUND THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS OF PERADENIYA

Wandering through pure delicate nature on a warm day, sheltered and cooled down by the shade of tree leaves. That’s a walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya in a nutshell.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, located in Peradeniya, just outside of Kandy is a lively urban city park. The gardens contain over 4.000 species of plants, including spices, medicinal plants, orchids and palm trees.

An early morning stroll is perfect to escape the heat and chaos that prevails in Kandy town. While walking through the gardens, pay some extra attention to the superb looking Royal Palm Avenue, the appealing Orchid Garden and the impressive Cannonball Tree that was planted by King George and Queen Mary of the United Kingdom.

An interesting option to visit the Royal Botanic Gardens is by joining an all-inclusive Kandy City Tour . For prices and availability click here .

Where | Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya

How to get to the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya | From the city centre of Kandy it takes only 10-minutes by tuk-tuk to reach the gardens of Peradeniya. A one-way trip will cost around 400 LKR ($2).

Cost | 1.500 LKR, ($8,50) per person.

7 | EXPLORE THE KANDY MUNICIPAL CENTRAL MARKET

You’ll have to admit it, the atmosphere found at a local market always tend to be attractive. The two-floor Kandy Municipal Central Market is no different.

The Market in Kandy is an excellent place to experience the hustle and bustle of daily local life in Sri Lanka.

The first floor is where your senses are put to the test. Vendors from every kind try to bargain a deal with you. Think of fresh fruits, spices, fish, dried fish, meat and vegetables.

Upstairs you’ll find a great variety of incense, all kinds of textiles, artistic crafts, and even medicines. At the Kandy market, they sell almost everything, name it and they’ll have it for you.

Making your way along a countless amount of market stalls can be a bit overwhelming and chaotic at first. Once you’re used to the circumstances it is genuine the best way to discover Kandyan’s daily life.

Where | Kandy Municipal Central Market

How to get to the Kandy Market | The market in Kandy is opposite to the Central Bus Station and Kandy Clock Tower.

8 | ST. PAUL CHURCH

The historic district of Kandy, where you’ll find the world-famous Temple of the Tooth is also home to the St. Paul Church.

The Neo Gothic-style church, English Victorian on the inside, was consecrated on 25 January 1853 after a long building process.

At first, the church named the Garrison Church. The mission of the church was to serve British troops during the British Ceylon period. Nowadays, the Anglican church is open to worshippers every Sunday at 07:45 am.

Exploring the church and historic district of Kandy can easily be combined with a visit to the Udawattekele Sanctuary and Temple of the Tooth.

Where | St. Paul Church

How to get to the St. Paul Church | The church is located behind the Temple of the Sacred Tooth in the historic district. A walk from the temple to the church is around 5 minutes.

Where to eat in Kandy

Licensed to Grill | Even though they have a license to grill, their food is illegally delicious.

Roots Fresh Juice | The perfect place to treat yourself on a refreshing juice during the sizzling days in Kandy.

The Bakehouse Kandy | If you’re into pastries don’t hesitate to drop by The Bakehouse. It’s an excellent venue to satisfy your inner sweet tooth. Try their local favourite ‘Malu Paan’.

Things to do in Kandy | The essentials

The weather | best time to visit kandy.

The best time to visit Kandy in Sri Lanka is between December and April. The days are mostly dry which is excellent to wander around the city.

Even though the weather in Sri Lanka is good year-round, keep in mind that Sri Lanka experiences two monsoons. The first one is from May to September and the second one is from October to November.

During my visit to Kandy in the midst of September, the monsoon didn’t give me any trouble. In fact, the prices were lower and there were fewer travellers around.

Try to avoid the monsoons if you’re planning to hike the Knuckles Mountain Range , during the wet season the forest is full of leeches.

How to get to Kandy

From colombo to kandy.

Train | The 3-hour train ride from Colombo to Kandy is part of the world-famous Colombo to Badulla route. The direct journey starts at the Colombo Fort station and is quite straightforward. For those who are unfamiliar with public transport in Sri Lanka, this journey is a good introduction.

Cost | 1st class AC: 490 LKR ($2.75) per person | 2nd class: 270 LKR ($1.5) per person | 3rd class: 180 LKR ($1) per person

Travel time | The journey take 2.5 – 3 hours

Train times | 05:55 | 06:45 | 07:00 | 08:30 | 09:00 | 09:45, 10:35 | 12:40 | 15:35 | 17:20 | 17:45 | For more information about train times click here .

Bus | Jump on a direct bus that leaves at the Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal. The journey to Kandy takes as long as the train but without the epic views. Taking the train should be your number one pick.

Cost   | 200 LKR ($1) per person

Travel time | The travel time is 0315 hours

Bus times   | The busses leave every 20 minutes

From Ella to Kandy

Train | One of the most beautiful train rides in the world is the one from Ella to Kandy. Imagine a scenic, 7-hour journey that goes by smoother than expected, that is exactly what the journey from Ella to Kandy is. This pleasant ride brings you along green mountains and lush tea fields.

Travel time | The journey takes around 6 – 7 hours to complete

Cost | 2nd class: 250 LKR ($1.5) per person | 3rd class: 180 LKR ($1) per person

Bus | Don’t even think of taking a bus from Ella to Kandy, the train journey is way too scenic.

From Sigiriya to Kandy

Bus | Sigiriya – Dambulla – Kandy – Start the journey with a 20-minute tuk-tuk drive to Dambulla. At the Dambulla bus stand jump on a direct bus that heads for Kandy.

Cost | Tuk-tuk to Dambulla – 1.000 LKR ($5.5) | Bus from Dambulla to Kandy – 200 LKR ($1) per person.

Travel time | The journey takes 2.5 – 3 hours

STAY SAFE IN SRI LANKA | TRAVEL INSURANCE

Though Sri Lanka is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here .

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering COVID-19-related claims.

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• The Pekoe Trail
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Discovering a Different Side of Kandy: A Gateway to the Best Hikes in Sri Lanka

Nestled amid the lush, rolling hills, Kandy in Sri Lanka is a vibrant cultural hub with incredible history. This historic city, the country’s last royal capital, beckons travellers with its rich tapestry of history and spirituality, most notably encapsulated in the sacred Temple of the Tooth.

For those drawn by the call of nature and adventure travel in Sri Lanka, hiking in Kandy is an unparalleled starting point to explore the rugged beauty of Sri Lankan highlands. Through The Pekoe Trail , you’ll have the unique opportunity to explore a network of hiking paths that promise enchanting vistas and intimate encounters with diverse ecosystems.

Things to do in Kandy

Before setting off on the surrounding trails, an essential first stop on the list of attractions in Kandy is the Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred site is believed to house the revered tooth relic of the Buddha, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike with its rich ornamentation and daily rituals. Situated within the royal palace complex built just above the rippling waters of the Kandy Lake and with the Udawattakele forest sanctuary setting a dramatic backdrop, The Temple of The Tooth is the crowning jewel of Kandy and the heart of Buddhist spirituality on the island.

Just a short distance from the temple, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya invites you to explore its vast collection of over 4,000 plant species. The lush landscapes offer a glimpse into the island’s rich biodiversity. For a panoramic view of the city, make your way to the Kandy View Point. It’s an ideal spot for capturing breathtaking photos of the urban landscape nestled among hills. One of the more unique things to do in Kandy is a visit to the Udawattakele Forest Reserve, where well-marked trails lead to encounters with endemic birds and lush greenery.

Hiking Beyond Kandy: Trails for Every Adventurer

As the urban landscape gives way to the countryside, Kandy reveals its true allure with some of the best hikes in Sri Lanka at your doorstep. The trails around Kandy vary in difficulty, making it an ideal base for both novice hikers and seasoned trekkers.

The Pekoe Trail introduces hikers to its first stage that stretches from Hanthana to Galaha, weaving through vibrant tea plantations. This initial leg of the journey offers an insightful glimpse into the traditional tea-making processes that are integral to Sri Lankan culture.

From Galaha, the trail progresses to Loolkandura in Stage 2, where the lush landscapes extend into deeper, more remote areas, providing hikers with a pristine view of rural life and untouched nature. The subsequent stages—Stage 3 from Loolkandura to Tawalantenne, and Stage 4 from Tawalantenne to Pundaluoya—offer continued exploration into the heart of the countryside. These sections of the trail are dotted with small village temples and local markets, offering authentic experiences that reflect the spirit and resilience of the local communities.

Connecting with Nature and Culture

The hiking trails around Kandy are more than just routes through stunning landscapes; they are pathways into the heart of Sri Lankan wilderness and the culture of Sri Lanka. As hikers venture deeper into the rural areas, they encounter traditional villages, where you’ll be treated to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local customs and way of life.

The Pekoe Trail , a magnificent journey threading through the heart of Sri Lanka, perfectly encapsulates a blend of nature and culture. Stretching from the tea-laden hills of Kandy, this trail offers a rich, immersive long-distance hiking experience that unveils the full splendour of the island’s diverse landscapes and heritage sites.

Hikers on this trail will wander through lush tea plantations, dense forests, and awe-inspiring waterfalls near Kandy, like the Ravana Falls and Gartmore Falls, offering scenic spots to enjoy the serene beauty that characterises this less-travelled path. The trail not only showcases the island’s natural wonders but also its rich historical tapestry with landmarks scattered along the route, each telling a story of Sri Lanka’s past.

It’s a journey through the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Sri Lanka, making it an essential experience for any adventurer seeking to explore the depths of this beautiful island. Whether you seek the serenity of sacred sites or the adrenaline of ascending mountain summits, Kandy offers a unique blend of experiences that prepare the spirit for the physical and metaphorical peaks to come. Join the adventure, and discover the essence of Sri Lanka through The Pekoe Trail .

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