a trip to kandy essay in english

A trip I went essay in English for students 300 words

A trip i went essay in english for students 150 words.

During the last school vacation, I went on a pilgrimage to Kandy, Anuradhapura and some of the ancient cities with my school mates and teachers. On the first day, we went to Kandy to see and worship the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Devadas and Shrines. There we lit Joss sticks, poured coconut oil in to the oil lamps, offered flowers and worshipped. Then we watched the Thevawa Ceremony and listen to an Anusasana delivered by a member of the Sangha. After around 1 p.m. we had our lunch. And walked towards the lake. We had a quiet evening. We spent that night in the pilgrims rest.

On the second day we reached Anuradhapura. First, we worshipped the sacred "Bo Tree" Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya. Then we went to see the Ruwanvaliya, the Maha Stupa. On the way we saw a lot of sacred places and were fortunate to visit and worship eight other places called Atamasthana. Thereafter we went to Polonnaruwa. On our way we visited Dambulla where we saw the beautiful Rock Temple, Dambulla Viharaya.

Afterwards we went to Sigiriya. When we climbed up the stairs to Sigiriya, we saw the world-famous wonderful entrance which is called the " lion's mouth " which had been made in that shape.

In Polonnaruwa we visited many sacred places. We saw many large tanks which were built by ancient kings. We spent that night in an inn at Polonnaruwa.

The following day we come to Badulla. We saw the glamorous Dunhinda waterfall. After seeing the waterfall, we came to Muththiyangana Mahaviharaya. At least we came to Colombo at 7.30 p.m.

We were so happy and I will never forget our pilgrimage. If I get another chance to visit those places, I will never miss it.

Visit Kandy, Sri Lanka: Your Travel Guide

From the west coast of Sri Lanka, we headed inland to Kandy, the second-largest city in the country, and the gateway to the hills. We had spent 4 days in Colombo, the financial capital; and Kandy, the historic and cultural capital of Sri Lanka, was next on our agenda.

What I found most interesting about Kandy is that due to its geographic advantage and difficult terrain, the erstwhile Kingdom of Kandy was able to fight off Portuguese and Dutch advancements for centuries after the rest of the country succumbed to foreign rule. It was the last standing bastion of then-independent Ceylon, which is why it is the area that is richest in art, history, and culture. While Kandy has become synonymous with its #1 attraction – the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, it also has colonial architecture, beautiful gardens, and the serene Kandy Lake for those who have the time to see them.

Getting to Kandy

Colombo is the only point of entry to the country, and from here, you can travel to Kandy by train, a/c bus, or by taxi. Kandy does not have an airport and the city is located 84 km away from the nearest one. A cab would charge you around LKR 22,000. If you love road trips as much as I do, you can book a self-drive car and make the 2.5-hour (70 km) journey at your own pace. The roads are simply beautiful and the scenery along the way will keep you in good spirits. We couldn’t help but comment on how the drive felt like therapy, thanks to the endless stretches of greenery, the blue skies, and the warm sunshine. I rented a car from ShineAway Cars.

To know more about getting a driving license, renting a car, and more, I’ve written a blog post about it along with some other Sri Lanka FAQs .

Where to stay in Kandy

Being a city, Kandy has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets. We stayed 45 minutes outside the city in the idyllic village of Gurudeniya, so in terms of sightseeing and convenience, it was quite out of the way, but if you’re looking for peace and relaxation, read on.

My experience at our hotel, Jetwing Kandy Gallery enhanced my trip to Kandy tenfold. This luxury hotel is located on the banks of the Mahawelli Ganga River, the perfect place to come back to after exploring the marvels of the city. Having just 26 rooms and suites, the hotel manages to offer each room its personal butler – taking personalized service to the next level. A gorgeous pool, large balcony, peaceful location, great spa, and amenities make it one of the best choices in these parts.

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I was floored when I saw my stunning room at Jetwing Kandy Gallery. Shrouded in greenery and overlooking the Mahawelli Ganga River, the longest river in Sri Lanka, the rooms are inviting and plush – a true sanctuary. My favourite experiences were breakfast by the pool and river, an evening swim, and a fabulous spa sesh to wind down after a long day of workcationing. The traditional song sung by the staff, the lighting of the lamp ceremony, and the local sweets we received upon arrival made this gorgeous luxury hotel feel so welcoming. The staff is absolutely wonderful – did I mention every room has a personal butler? Ours was the lovely Kivindi, who was always a call away.

An offbeat activity we did in Kandy was to do a short walking tour in the village, led by the naturalist at Jetwing Kandy Gallery. It was on the walk that we were shown an ancient statue of the sleeping Buddha under a tree. Just behind it is a stupa and caves with ancient carvings that date back to 2 BC. While the caves have been ravaged by treasure hunters and the head of the Buddha statue was likely washed away by the river, it is a fascinating place for those who like archeology and have an interest in historical findings. There is a little information about the place (called Gonawatta Caves) but you can read about it here .

Things to do in Kandy

The hotel staff at Jetwing Kandy Gallery happened to mention in conversation that there wasn’t much to do in Kandy apart from the 2-3 attractions in the city, and after experiencing the place and actively looking for offbeat things to do, I would agree. Kandy, they said, is often a stopover on the drive between Colombo and Nuwara Eliya – a more attractive destination, according to locals. And hence, if you aren’t a slow traveler or don’t have to work alongside your travel, one day in Kandy would suffice to see the major sights. If you do like to slow down and really soak in a new place or are working remotely like I was, then two days in Kandy are ideal.

Visit The Temple of The Tooth

It is said that Buddha’s tooth was snatched from the flames of his funeral pyre way back in 483 BC. It was smuggled to Sri Lanka by Princess Hemmamali, who hid it in her hair. The tooth was moved and hidden for many years before finally settling in Kandy, where no expense is spared to protect it at the Temple of the Tooth. It is enclosed inside several gold boxes covered in jewels and has been worshipped ever since. Over the years, the tooth grew in importance and was a symbol of sovereignty. Whoever had custody of the tooth had the right to rule the island. Sri Lankan Buddhists pay at least one visit here during their lifetime, and all of this makes this little tooth mighty impressive.

If you’re wearing off-shoulder tees, barebacked and sleeveless dresses, shorts, mini-skirts, see-through clothing, and distressed jeans you won’t be allowed to enter. Fortunately, at the entrance of the temple, you will find vendors selling sarongs, and for a price of LKR 300, you can rent one to wrap around your legs or upper body. It is also worth noting that most locals wear white at the temple, and while it is not mandatory to do so, if you want to blend in and look like a local to avoid tour guides zeroing in on you, you could do the same.

Speaking of tour guides, you don’t need to look out for one if you need one. They will find you. Conveniently for them, there are no signs leading foreigners to the designated counters from where they should buy a ticket (at LKR 1500 each ). Most foreigners simply follow the crowd until they reach the counters meant for Sri Lankans to keep their footwear, and that’s when a guide will ‘helpfully’ show you to the counters meant for foreigners.

For us, it was 11 AM when our self-appointed guide took us to the counter meant for foreigners and according to him, the chamber where the tooth is kept open for public viewing closes at 11:15. He hastily ushered us in at top speed so we could get a glimpse of the chamber before it closed, and then proceeded to show us where to place our flower offerings, where we could and could not take pictures, all the rooms we could visit and the significance of what we were seeing. And that was that – he’d got his customer for the day. Although I must say, the temple was extremely crowded and the points of interest are all over the place. He helped us get out of there in 30 minutes flat while showing us the shortcuts and making our way through the crowd by speaking the local language, Sinhalese. We would have probably taken 2 hours in there, just finding our way and being pushed around by the crowds.

Overall, this was definitely a beautiful experience and I was blown away by the ornate carvings and colorful depictions of Buddha. I was also very intrigued by the room full of gifts and gold (that we weren’t allowed to see, but it sounded like something out of an adventure novel). Keep in mind, you can’t actually see the tooth – it’s locked inside a box and held behind glass.

P.S. During our trip to Kandy, we only visited the Temple of the Tooth and no other attractions simply because they were not of interest to us or we found them to be too expensive for the experience. The information listed below may help you plan your itinerary but is not from personal experience.

Spend a few hours at the Royal Botanical Garden

We made our way to the Royal Botanical Gardens and found out that the entry fee was quite steep at LKR 2000 per head (foreigner price), and decided to leave without seeing it. This sprawling park is said to be ultra grand as it was made for Kandyan royals to saunter through. It is spread over 60 hectares and holds 10,000 trees. You’ll find orchids, spice plants, Insta-worthy palm trees, and more. Plan to spend at least 3 hours to see it all. If I’m ever in Kandy again (and I suspect I will be when I pass through to go to Nuwara Eliya on a future trip), I may decide to check it out. After all, I’ve already seen the Temple… so why not?

Kandy to Ella Train Ride

The Kandy to Ella Train Ride is said to be among the most picturesque train journeys in the world. You’ve probably seen photos of people posing while hanging out of the train doors over the tea plantations. I really wanted to get on that epic journey and get a photo like that, but tickets have to be booked way in advance, and we didn’t do it in time. Secondly, we had the self-drive car that we’d picked up from Colombo, so making the 6-hour train journey to Ella meant we would have to figure out what to do with the car and how to transport it to our next destination. After days of deliberation, we decided to give that a pass, too. I did spot the train at Ella though!

Stroll around Kandy Lake

One of the things you can do if you have time to spare is spend a bit of time at the picturesque Kandy Lake. Entry is free and a walk around the 3 km circumference of the lake would take you an hour – a good way to get your step count up. The lake is a backdrop to the Temple of the Tooth Relic as well as the Udawattakele Forest Reserve, so it’s safe to say that you’ll spot plenty of wildlife around.

Other Things to Do

If you’re in the mood to visit more temples, the Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Embekke, and Lankathilaka called the ‘three temple loop’, is said to serve as a living history of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and craftsmanship. Many people recommend visiting the Elephant Orphanage, but I’d advise against it. Similar to the elephant sanctuary I visited in Coorg where one is led to believe that elephants are taken care of (partly true), they are used more as a form of entertainment and for tourists’ dollars.

Sigiriya, known as the eighth wonder of the world is a 3-hour drive from Kandy, and the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue, the biggest Buddha statue in Sri Lanka is also a short drive away. If you would like to see all of these things as well, budget for 2 more days in Kandy.

That pretty much wraps up my visit to Kandy. Among all the places I visited, I feel like I have the least to write about Kandy. I didn’t try out a single cafe or restaurant in the city, which is very unlike me. Stay tuned for my next blog posts and comment below if you would like my itinerary in Sri Lanka . See you on Facebook and Instagram .

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Kandy has been on my travel bucket list for ages! Thanks for this comprehensive guide.

Happy to help, Steven!

Hi, I’m heading to SriLanka early June, I plan to stay two days in Colombo, staying at the Kingsbury, then I have five days on my own to explore, I’m a little anxious as my first time travelling on my own. I would really appreciate any suggestions you may have

Hi Bernadette! 5 days should be good to visit 1-2 places located in close proximity to each other. If you like beaches, head south to Galle, Mirissa, Weligama. Or if you’re more of a nature-person, then Kandy and Ella. I found Sri Lanka to be super safe with several transport options (Uber, trains, local rickshaws) so you don’t have to worry about getting around. All these places I mentioned are touristy and you’re just one in the crowd – so as long as you dress modestly, you wont draw any attention. There’s always people around even at night – although if you can avoid going out alone at night, that would be better.

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A trip to Kandy

We reached Kegalle at about 8.30 a.m. First, we went to the Elephant orphanage in Pinnawala. We had our breakfast there. At Pinnawela we saw baby elephants bathing and playing in the river. There was a caretaker for them. Baby elephants were fed with fresh milk from a bottle.

Then we reached Kandy and visited the Sacred Dalada Maligawa. It is a historical place of worship for Buddhists. The Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha is kept there. We saw the massive Polgolla dam which irrigates the paddy crops in the Kandy district.

From there we reached the Botanical Gardens. As we entered we saw a large board for visitors which read, “DO NOT LITTER, DO NOT TOUCH.” We walked on the gravel path and not on the grass. We saw many varieties of flowers in different colours and shapes.

The caretakers were busy with their work – watering, weeding, fertilizing and pruning the bushes. There was a big playground where we played. We had our lunch there and returned in the evening.

Kalani Rashmika,

Harischandra National College,

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One day in Kandy Itinerary – Top things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Should your travels ever lead you to the city of Kandy in Sri Lanka, even if you’re there just for one day, you can consider yourself very fortunate indeed. This incredible city right in the middle of the island has quite a glorious history and sights that will leave you speechless. Add to that amazing parks and interesting cuisine, and you get a place where you will create incredible memories that will last you a lifetime. The one day you have in Kandy will be one of the best days of your life.

Plan your trip to Kandy

1. What’s the best time to visit Kandy? 2. A few facts about Kandy 3. One day in Kandy itinerary 3.1. Start with a traditional breakfast 3.2. Take a stroll around the lake 3.3. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth… 3.4. … and the rest of the royal palace 3.5. Stop for lunch 3.6. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens 3.7. Check out the massive Buddha 3.8. Enjoy a night out 4. Where to stay in Kandy? 5. Day trips from Kandy 6. Extra tips for visiting Kandy

What’s the best time to visit Kandy?

When it comes to the temperatures in Kandy, they are pretty consistent throughout the year. It’s always quite warm here since this is a tropical climate after all, but it needs to be said that there is significantly less precipitation during January, February, and March . So if you want good weather, that’s when you need to come.

However, you may also want to visit in July/August because of The Esala Perahera , also known as The Festival of Tooth , where the locals ask gods for a bountiful harvest. Additionally, the locals celebrate New Year in April, and Vesak Poya , a celebration of Buddha, is in May.

So, pick the time that suits you best and don’t forget to get a visa if you need one. Byevisa can provide all the information on that and help you get your visa.

A few facts about Kandy

With more than 150,000 people, Kandy is not that big of a city, but it’s still the second-largest in the country. However, this place was the last capital city of old kings of Sri Lanka and actually stayed independent all the way until the early 19th century.

Many Buddhists undertake a pilgrimage to the city and its Temple of the Tooth, but the city is also famous for its role in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom – most of the movie was shot here!

One day in Kandy itinerary

Your one day in Kandy is bound to be full of amazing things to experience and see. But plan your time carefully so that you can see as many places as possible. Here’s how you should go about that!

Start with a traditional breakfast

When in Sri Lanka, you simply must try the local breakfasts. They come in several different combinations, but they are very filling and consist of rice/coconut flour dough which you then use to dip into things like curries, sambol, or even hoppers (something similar to a pancake). The Kandy Garden Cafe is a great place to start your day the Sri Lankan way.

Take a stroll around the lake

Once you’re done with the breakfast, you can inspect that big body of water in front of you better. That’s Kandy Lake , an incredible feat of engineering undertaken by the last Sri Lankan king. Many legends revolve around it, one of them saying that there is a secret tunnel in the lake, connecting the island with the royal palace. Loads of beautiful greenery make this a wonderful place for a breath of fresh air and just taking a stroll.

Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth…

As you’re walking along the northern coast of the lake, you will eventually reach the Temple of the Sacred Tooth , but do try to come here earlier in the morning to avoid crowds.

The temple is a magnificent building from the end of the 16th century and houses the actual tooth of Buddha, which is a national treasure. This is pretty much a must for any visitor to Kandy, so even if you have one day in the city, you really should get here ASAP.

… and the rest of the royal palace

But the temple is just a part of a much greater complex, the Sacred City of Kandy , the former home of the local kings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It really is an extremely impressive place, and many buildings inside it have been turned into museums, most notable of which is the National Museum Kandy . So, you have a lot of exploring to do

Stop for lunch

After all of this, you deserve a break and a bite to eat. There are plenty of great restaurants in Kandy, but if you’re a seafood fan, you really should go to Kandyan King Seafood Restaurant . The food is delicious, and the prices are great.

Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar and Restaurant offers beautiful views from their terrace with your meals, so you can enjoy their Asian fusion dishes to the fullest, and if you need to grab something quickly, World Spice – KCC is the place to go.

Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

Slightly west from the city center are the Royal Botanic Gardens , and a nice stroll there seems like a great way to start your afternoon. This is actually the largest botanic garden in Asia , so you know it’s going to be good.

Indeed, the beauty of the flowers is hard to describe, but the place is especially famous for its orchids. Literally thousands of different kinds of plants can be viewed, all just 15 minutes away by car.

Check out the massive Buddha

Once you come back from the botanical garden, head to that giant Buddha statue that’s been towering over you the whole day. That’s Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha, a temple that offers a great view of the city.

It’s only a short ride away from the royal palace, and you can visit it easily, so why not get a panoramic view of Kandy while you still can. It’s a great place to snap some awesome pictures.

Enjoy a night out

After your sightseeing tour is complete, go ahead and see what Kandy’s nightlife is like. You can head out to Le Garage , probably the most popular club in town, but be aware that you’ll need a ride to get there since it’s not exactly in the city center.

What is in the city center is The Pub , a nice place where you can just chill with the locals or cheer if the national cricket team is playing. Blackout is another very popular evening venue, with pretty good food if you feel hungry.

Where to stay in Kandy?

Golden Crown Hotel

322, Udagama Ampitiya, 20000 Kandy

For the ultimate luxury in Kandy, stay at the Golden Crown Hotel . This amazing place is surrounded by lush greenery and offers spectacular views, but it also has an infinity pool and a swim-up bar. We don’t have to emphasize that the rooms are excellent, and here you will be close to the city center, too.

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The Radh Hotel

  30 Colombo Street, 20000 Kandy

Another great place to stay is The Radh Hotel which has a fitness center, excellent rooms, and offers continental or buffet breakfast. But the most important advantage of this hotel is its location because it’s so very close to all the most important places in the city center. Very helpful staff only confirm that you’ve made the right choice when you decided to stay here.

Sevana City Hotel

84, Peradeniya Road, Kandy, 20000 Kandy

Sevana City Hotel offers great value for your money, especially when you consider its excellent location. You can also enjoy the hotel’s rooftop pool and the lovely view you get from it, plus there is a terrace and a snack bar, too. The rooms are clean and comfortable, the people working here are very kind, and the restaurant is great, too. Three-star hotels don’t get much better than this.

The Oasis Hostel

No. 114/1/1, Peradeniya road, Kandy 1st floor, 20000 Kandy

Traveling on a budget usually means staying in a hostel, but The Oasis Hostel will show you that this is not a bad thing at all! The hostel offers free cooking classes and several types of food in its restaurant, and the location is very convenient. Perfectly clean with a very kind owner and a nice balcony, this hostel will help make sure you enjoy your trip!

Day trips from Kandy

Spending more than one day in Kandy means you have a chance to explore this amazing country more thoroughly. If you have at least a day to spare, here are some of the trips you really should consider making.

Train from Kandy to Ella

Many consider this to be the most beautiful train ride in the world. It lasts seven hours (or four if you disembark in Nuwara Eliya) and takes you through mesmerizing tea plantations. There are scenic mountain views, there are locals waving to the train, and all of this seems a bit like a fairy tale.

Why not spend one day in Colombo if you have the time? The capital city is less than two hours away by car, and more and more people are discovering its charm every year. Bustling street life, wonderful Buddhis temples, and plenty of places where you can spend a nice evening make this a great choice for a day trip from Kandy.

An hour away by car from Kandy lies an absolutely spectacular place. Sigiriya is an ancient city built on a rock in the 5th century, and to say that the views from up there are breathtaking would be quite an understatement. Check out this UNESCO World Heritage Site and your life will be so much richer.

Kitulgala is a destination for those who are looking for some adrenaline and adventure on their vacation. From this small town, you can go whitewater rafting, kayaking, or maybe rent out a mountain bike and explore the forests all around you. Oh, and the remains of the bridge over the local river Kelani is the one used in the famous film The Bridge on the River Kwai.

Extra tips for visiting Kandy

– The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee, and one euro equals about 230 of them. One US dollar will get you about 190 rupees.    

– You may feel the urge to go and visit one of the local “sanctuaries” for elephants. However, many organizations dedicated to helping animals have warned that these places are not real sanctuaries but     actually use elephants for entertainment. So maybe just avoid them.    

– Tuk-tuk is a common mode of transport here, and you can even book tuk-tuk     tours if you so desire.    

– Kandy is actually cooler than most of Sri Lanka, so you may want to pack something warmer, just in case.    

– Some temples may ask you to remove your shoes when entering, it’s good to have a bag with you to put them in.

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Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

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Coined as the second city to Colombo, Kandy is full of culture and life. Its elevation in the green peaks gives this city a much more small-town feel. You won’t have any issue escaping the commotion of the city centre if you want to relax and properly enjoy all the best places to visit in Kandy.

Putting your shoes in a bag and bringing them in with you to the temple is considered disrespectful. If they see you they will tell you to put them outside.

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Visit Kandy: Travel Guide to Sri Lanka

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Kandy, Sri Lanka

Kandy is a beautiful city located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, Kandy is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. Kandy has a rich history and was the last capital of the ancient kings’ era of Sri Lanka. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Kandy was also the centre of the Kandyan Kingdom, which resisted the Portuguese and Dutch colonial rule in Sri Lanka.

Where to Stay

As you would expect from a major travel destination in South Asia, Sri Lanka has no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation. As always, I’d suggest you stay somewhere central, to make accessing all the attractions as easy as possible.

Location: The hotel is situated on a hill overlooking the city of Kandy, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It’s also conveniently located near popular attractions such as the Temple of the Tooth, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and Kandy Lake.

Dining: The hotel has several dining options, including a fine-dining restaurant, a poolside bar and grill, and a coffee shop. The cuisine is a mix of local and international flavors, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Facilities: Amaya Hills has a wide range of facilities to keep guests entertained, including a swimming pool, fitness center, spa, and tennis court. The hotel also offers cultural activities such as traditional dance performances and cooking classes.

Brief history: Amaya Hills was built in 1997 as a luxury resort and has since become one of the top hotels in Kandy. The hotel is part of the Amaya Resorts & Spas group, which has several properties throughout Sri Lanka.

Begin your search for the perfect accommodation now while the excitement is still fresh in your mind. Discover stylish and affordable options, and find the best accommodations at the lowest prices:

Explore a wide range of hotels in Sri Lanka here (Booking.com)

Explore a wide range of hotels in Sri Lanka here (Tripadvisor)

Explore a wide range of hotels in Sri Lanka here (Agoda)

Discover affordable hostels in Sri Lanka here (Hostelworld)

Easily compare prices and book hotels in Sri Lanka here (Hotellook)

What to know before you go?

If you are planning a trip to Kandy, Sri Lanka, here are some travel tips that can help you make the most of your visit:

• Plan your visit around the weather: The best time to visit Kandy is during the months of December to April, which is the dry season. The monsoon season starts in May and lasts until November, which can lead to heavy rainfall and landslides.
• Dress appropriately: As Kandy is a culturally rich city, it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites such as the Temple of the Tooth. Both men and women are expected to cover their shoulders and knees when entering these sites.

• Book your accommodation in advance: Kandy is a popular tourist destination, and accommodation can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance to ensure you have a comfortable stay.
• Try the local cuisine: Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious and unique. Kandy is known for its spicy curries, seafood dishes, and sweetmeats. Don’t be afraid to try some of the local cuisine during your visit.
• Take a tuk-tuk or walk: Kandy’s streets can be narrow and congested, making it difficult to navigate by car. Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in the city and are readily available. Alternatively, you can also explore the city on foot to get a closer look at its architecture and culture.

• Respect local customs and traditions: Sri Lanka is a culturally rich country, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions during your visit. For example, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering a home or temple.
• Be prepared for hilly terrain: Kandy is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, and the city has hilly terrain. If you plan on exploring the city on foot, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uphill climbs.

How to get to Kandy

There are several ways to get to Kandy, Sri Lanka, depending on where you are starting from:

• By air: The nearest international airport to Kandy is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, which is about 100 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a car to drive to Kandy.
• By train: Sri Lanka’s railway system is extensive, and there are several trains that run to Kandy from other parts of the country. The journey from Colombo takes about 3-4 hours and of

When to Visit Kandy

The best time to visit Kandy is during the months of December to April, which is the dry season. The weather is pleasant during this time, and you can enjoy the city’s attractions without any rain interruptions. The monsoon season starts in May and lasts until November.

How to Get Around Kandy

You can use tuk-tuks, taxis, or public buses to get around in Kandy. Tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transportation and are readily available in the city. Taxis are also available, and you can book them through your hotel or a taxi service. Public buses are cheap but can be crowded and uncomfortable during peak hours.

Best Things to Do and Best Places To Visit in Kandy

Here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in Kandy:

• Temple of the Tooth: The Temple of the Tooth is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most important Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. It houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year.
• Royal Botanical Gardens: The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya is a beautiful garden spread over 147 acres. It has over 4000 species of plants, including orchids, palm trees, and medicinal plants.
• Kandy Lake: Kandy Lake is a picturesque lake located in the heart of the city. It was built in 1807 by King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha and is a popular spot for picnics and boat rides.

• Bahirawakanda Temple: The Bahirawakanda Temple is known for its giant Buddha statue, which stands at 88 feet tall. The temple offers panoramic views of Kandy city.
• Udawatta Kele Sanctuary: The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a nature reserve located on a hill behind the Temple of the Tooth. It is home to many species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

Amazing Viewpoints in Kandy

As for amazing viewpoints in Kandy, here are a few suggestions:

• Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue: This giant Buddha statue is located on a hill overlooking Kandy and offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
• Hanthana Mountain Range: These mountains are located just outside of Kandy and offer some incredible hiking trails with breathtaking views of the valley below.
• Kandy Lake: The lake in the centre of Kandy is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers some stunning views of the city skyline.
• Knuckles Mountain Range: This mountain range is located about an hour’s drive from Kandy and is a popular spot for hiking and trekking. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
• Udawatta Kele Sanctuary: This nature reserve is located in the heart of Kandy and offers some amazing views of the city and surrounding hills. There are several hiking trails that lead to different viewpoints within the sanctuary.

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Visit Kandy, Sri Lanka

• Accommodation
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Wood storks rest beside this Sri Lankan city’s tranquil lake and gold roof temple, set beneath undulating tea plantations.

In between undulating tea plantations and emerald rainforest, the city of Kandy lies within the Mahaweli River’s protective embrace. The former capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy’s famed for sheltering a tooth of the Buddha — the country’s most holy Buddhist relic — along with botanical gardens, temples and an artificial lake.

Kandy has a thriving food scene, with a growth in the number of restaurants starting to provide authentic Kandyan home cooking. Away from the throbbing motorbikes and noisy market vendors, the Kandy Lake is a calm oasis fronting the Temple of the Tooth. From the lakeside you can look out for Indian cormorant, stork-billed kingfisher and the alligator-like Asian water monitor lizard.

Temple of the Tooth

At the temple, puja (prayers) occur daily, where the tooth is taken out of its chamber in its golden casket for devout Buddhists to worship. The room is filled with flowers, praying Buddhists, onlookers and the sound of rhythmic drummers. Outside of puja, you can quietly admire the temple’s contrasting simple wooden structures, flamboyant Buddha statues and lavish gold roofs.

Kandy Lake was created as an additional feature for the Temple of the Tooth. You can take a break from the bustle of the city by walking the path encircling the lake. Nuga and palm trees shade the path, and you’ll notice white egret cranes, wood storks and pelicans around the water’s edge.

The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya

The botanical gardens are the largest in Sri Lanka and are abundant with the smell of spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon and cardamom. The main lawn is ruled by a giant Javan fig tree. At over 100 years old its thick trunk and spidery canopy of branches stretch over 2,420 sq m (26,048 sq ft). As you wander around, you’ll be joined by curious monkeys and can spot snoozing fruit bats hanging in the trees.

Back in the city, you can delve into the Kandyan food scene on a guided walking food tour. You’ll be taken on a culinary journey through Kandy’s markets, sampling tropical fruit and milky ‘workers tea’, before being greeted with plates of freshly fried Kandyan snacks such as wade at a woman’s cooperative. Your day culminates in visiting a café for curd and treacle (a typical Sri Lankan desert).

Alternatively, on an evening food walk your guide will introduce you to egg hoppers (rice-flour pancakes with an egg in the bottom) and kottu (a dish made of shredded roti, stir-fried vegetables and leftover meat cooked in egg).

Exploring around Kandy

A great way to uncover the countryside around Kandy is on a cycling tour. Starting just outside Kandy, you’ll feel the breeze whip through your hair as you wind your way through tea country on a 30 km (17 mile) guided route. The downhill route weaves through the mountains around Kandy, finishing at Peradeniya’s gardens. You’ll stop at a local spice shop for a chance to untangle the recipe for curry powder and taste freshly cooked roadside corn on the cob.

Due to Kandy’s central location, it makes for a good stop to break up your journey between tea country and Sri Lanka’s south coast. It’s easily accessed from Colombo , the Cultural Triangle and Nuwara Eliya .

Best time to visit Kandy

The best time to visit Kandy is between January and April. As the city sits in the middle of Sri Lanka, it bypasses both monsoon seasons. However, during the inter-monsoonal period between October and November, rain and thunderstorms cloud the sky.

Kandy becomes crowded in July and August, for 10 days, as the Buddhist festival of Esala Perahera is celebrated.

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Kandy by contacting one of our Sri Lanka specialists

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Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Kandy, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

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Map of Kandy

Places & hotels on the map, places near kandy.

• Pallepola 24 miles away
• Nuwara Eliya 24 miles away
• Hatton 28 miles away
• Adam's Peak 35 miles away
• Horton Plains 35 miles away
• Bandarawela 40 miles away
• Dambulla 41 miles away
• Sigiriya 47 miles away
• Polonnaruwa 52 miles away
• Minneriya National Park 53 miles away
• Negombo 56 miles away
• Udawalawe National Park 57 miles away
• The Cultural Triangle 58 miles away
• Colombo 60 miles away
• Sinharaja Biosphere 64 miles away
• Wadduwa 65 miles away
• Anuradhapura 74 miles away
• Bentota 75 miles away
• Yala National Park 77 miles away
• Passikudah 78 miles away
• Tangalle 89 miles away
• Galle 92 miles away
• The Southern Coast 94 miles away
• Trincomalee 98 miles away
• Jaffna 170 miles away

Photos of Kandy

Accommodation choices for Kandy

We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Kandy. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

The Kandy House

Mahaweli Reach

Ideas for experiencing kandy.

Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Kandy, and which use the best local guides.

Kelaniya Ganga White-Water Rafting

The Kelaniya Ganga is a stunning river offering some excellent, though relatively gentle, white-water rafting.

Kandyan Dance Performance & Temple of the Tooth

Traditional Kandyan dances include the cobra dance, mask dance, the Ginisisila, showing power over fire. The entire frenetic and colourful spectacle climaxes with the amazing fire-walking act.

Kandy to Nuwara Eliya by train

The picturesque railway to Nuwara Eliya passes waterfalls and tea plantations, as well as Adam's Peak in the distance.

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Why you must visit Kandy in Sri Lanka

As I stepped out into the balcony and looked at the panoramic views of the city in the light drizzle, I remembered the quote from Lonely Planet “ Here’s a city that looks good even when it’s raining.” Kandy in Sri Lanka is known as the capital of the hill country and is the biggest city after Colombo. 

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka and surrounded by heavily forested mountains and tea plantations, Kandy is an important religious center for Buddhists. It is the home of an ancient Buddhist relic – a tooth of Buddha himself and was declared a UNESCO world heritage site. Just a three-hour drive from Colombo, Kandy city can be a good base to visit the cultural triangle and is a must stop on your Sri Lanka itinerary.

We spent a couple of days in Kandy and fell in love with the city and its rich culture. Here are our top picks so that you can plan and pace your trip as per your comfort.

Explore the perfectly landscaped lawns at the Royal Botanical Garden

The Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya is the largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka and attracts 2 million visitors annually. The expansive garden was formally established under the British and reserved for royalty only but its initial mentions are found in 14th-century scriptures. We found the 60 hectares garden housing a wide variety of flowering plants, trees and giant bamboo an amazing place to spend the day.

The garden is also a local favorite and you will find many families having picnics and quite a lot of kids running around. We highly recommend visiting this place if you are traveling with kids or if you are a nature lover.

It houses a variety of plants and trees and we found the orchid house, cannonball trees, giant bamboo and royal avenue of palm trees really interesting. This park is so huge and has so many little sections, I am sure you will find your very own favorite spot.

In search of Buddha’s Tooth Relic

There are a lot of stories about Kandy city and how Buddha’s tooth reached here. Kandy was the last kingdom of Sri Lanka, the preceding kingdoms being Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa in the north. However, due to foreign invasion, the capital was shifted to Kandy from Polonnaruwa and the tooth relic was housed in the King’s palace ground within the royal temple of Kandy. As per the local belief, the one who has this sacred relic is fit to rule the country. The relic has played and still plays a prominent role in the politics and governance of Sri Lanka.

The story behind the Tooth relic is a fascinating one. Legend says that the holy remains from Buddha’s cremations were distributed amongst different kingdoms that sought for it. The relics were then enshrined in Stupas and worshipped. Out of the four tooth relics, this tooth relic was said to be claimed by the Kalinga king from India. But when Kalinga was under attack, the Kalinga king decided to send the tooth relic to his friend, the king of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka, to keep it safe. The tooth was smuggled into Sri Lanka by Princess Hemamali, the Kalinga king’s daughter and she hid it in her hair. Our host told us that in Sri Lankan culture, the highest respect is paid to a woman’s head and hair. And thus nobody dared to search the princesses hair.

History states that everytime the existing capital was invaded, the tooth relic was either shifted or hidden by Buddhist monks as it signifies the continuity of faith and governance. The tooth relic moved from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa and to many other intermediary capitals before taking its final place in the sacred tooth relic shrine in Kandy in Sri Lanka.

According to legend, there was once a severe drought. The Tooth Relic was taken out of its shrine and a great procession was held for seven days. This ended the drought and started the tradition of the Perahera Festival which is celebrated annually and the procession begins at Kandy in Sri Lanka.

Visit the temple early morning to beat the crowd or in the evening to witness the ceremony and enjoy the cultural show which takes place every evening. This extravagant show has a snapshot of various dance forms practiced not just in Kandy in Sri Lanka but other parts of Sri Lanka as well.

Spend some time at the Kandy lake

Right next to the sacred tooth relic temple, is the beautiful Kandy Lake. This controversial lake had a lot of attention during while getting built as it is believed to have been built using forced labor and over paddy fields and had no irrigation use. The ruling king, Wickrama Rajasinghe, is said to have created this artificial lake for his pleasure, however, we heard another version of this story. Some say he dreamt of the “sea of milk” with a pot of Amrit (heavenly nectar of immortality) in the center, referred from “samudra manthan” as per Hindu mythology. Considering it divine intervention he aspired to build an artificial lake with a wave-like boundary. The exact position was selected by seeing an auspicious white tortoise between the paddy fields.

Apparently, the lake from the royal palace balcony at noon appears to be white due to reflection. Another story says that the island in the lake was meant to be a pleasure garden and was connected to the palace by an underground tunnel.

As mysterious as the origin of the lake is, it is also the house of numerous birds, fishes and animals. The lake is peaceful at any time of the day and taking a walk on the promenade surrounding or a boat ride it is a perfect way to spend an early morning or an evening.

Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

This place was not part of our itinerary but we were drawn to it as you cannot miss the impressively magnanimous statue of Buddha from any part of the city. The temple and the statue are on top of a small hillock overlooking the city and the panoramic views of the city are not at all disappointing.

Enjoy local food at the historic center of Kandy in Sri Lanka

Kandy city is a terrific example of how history has gradually merged with the modern times. It is very busy and has quite a lot of traffic but walking through the streets you wouldn’t fail to marvel at the old style colonial architecture standing tall with the more recent buildings.

Kandy is also a melting pot for different cuisines. If you want to try the Sri Lankan cuisine, do start with hoppers and kottu roti which is their version of snacks or street food. You will also find a lot of continental restaurants and cafes around here. Though a bit touristy, we still recommend visiting Kandy to get a flavour of the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka.

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60 comments.

This is a beautiful post full of amazing pictures! Kandy in Sri Lanka sounds like a great place.

I am feeling more and more Sri Lanka as our next destination! So many beautiful places to visit and so many interesting things to do!

What a fascinating city! I’ve never been to Sri Lanka, but it’s a place I’d like to consider one day. So many wonders to see!

Well isn’t this place beautiful! I would have never considered it but now it is on the bucket list.

I have never been there but definitely a highly recommended place to visit and I am sure if you are a nature lover you will love to be there, the place is so beautiful!

Sri Lanka is such a wonderful place to be , now you shown me Kandy through your eyes i want to book the visit for next year

Such an inspirational travel post! Looks simply gorgeous and worthy of visiting for sure!

What an amazing place, I have always wanted to visit Sri Lankan!

The place looks different than I thought. It sounds like a nice place for the next trip. Thanks!

What a beautiful place to visit. I’d love to go someday!

Good, you have opened me something new from Sri Lanka. Something I haven’t seen before. Makes me wanna visit and photograph the country.

Kandy has always been fascinating. First learned about the Tooth relic in history books at school. But indeed the saga of Buddha’s tooth relic is fascinating. But there is so much more to Kandy, it comes across as a serene place to enjoy some blissful time in the midst of nature.

Yes this is a must visit place. I visited last year there and took some pictures but your images are just awesome.

Photos looks amazing! Sri Lanka looks very historical and traditional. I would love to visit there.

I would be happy to explore this botanical garden and get inspiration, maybe apply to my own garden too!

Wow! Kandy is on my husband’s list and now I know why!

I have seen some other blogs about travel to Sri Lanka..and Kandy. One thing that’s quite distinct is the cloudy weather and ofcourse the beauty

i found more than one reason to visit Kandy……the palatial garden is so enticing….the lake so inviting…..

Sri Lanka have a similar culture with Thailand in terms of hair and head. It is a no no to touch someone’s head or hair. So the question is, where is Buddha’s tooth?!

After reading your article, I must say, Kandy has historical, cultural as well as natural experience to offer. And that indeed sounds like a complete package. Won’t want to miss the place when I plan my visit to Sri Lanka.

we were just introduced to the cuisine! we can’t wait to visit !

We have just seen the South Coast of Sri lanka and yet have to explore Kandy. Kandy actually looks pretty in rains. The legend of the tooth story is really interesting, Lake too looks serene. Would love to try Kattu Roti too

The story about moving the tooth relic is really fascinating. And it reminded me of our visit to the Diamond Triangle in Odisha, where the tooth relic of Buddha was supposedly kept. Thanks for highlighting the best of Kandy.

We were in Sri Lanka during May and enjoyed every inch of what we saw and experienced. Kandy and Nuwara Eliya got left out due to shortage of time. But next time, for sure. Did you take the scenic train ride?

Wow this is a great place to see. The Buddha’s Tooth Relic is impressive. I wish I could afford a trip to Siri Lanla. This post is for sure a great tour guide/

I have been planning to visit Sri Lanka for the longest time! I have joined forums and have read a lot of blogs about Sri Lanka and I am so happy I came across yours too, exactly just what I needed. Thanks for posting!

Very nice place. And your pictures are captivating. I would definitely visit Sri Lanka one of these days!

Kandy looks amazing. This pics are so inviting. The post was quite informative… Thanks for sharing..!!!

This looks and sounds beautiful, I would love to visit here.

Kandy looks amazing. I never knew that it has so much to offer to the tourists.

What a beautiful write up about Sri Lanka and Kandy. Visiting the country is high on my list, but I had not considered going outside of Colombo. I’m excited to read about Kandy and I’m very intrigued by the Buddha relic. Interesting legends about the mystery of the tooth!!

What a gorgeous place. I would love to visit there one day.

it’s so beautiful there. Sri Lanka is def on my list of future travel destinations. maybe one day…

Sri Lanka is on our bucket list and we’d love to visit Kandy. So much history and its very scenic would make a great destination with families too as we’ve heard the locals are friendly x

That is one gorgeous city! I think this goes into my bucket list!

I have a lot of cities on my “wish to travel” list. I have to say that Sri Lankai hasn’t been on it prior to this. In fact, if I am honest, I really didn’t know much about it. However, you have described what may be a wonderful and beautiful experience!

What a wonderful place to go walking. I’d love to go exploring one day!

Really never thought of visiting SRI Lanka but these images are beautiful. Love the ongoing ceremony and would love to see it.

Kandy is indeed bestowed with immense beauty. The Botanical Garden is simply a paradise for nature lovers like me. Buddha’s Tooth relic temple is extremely fascinating with an interesting history associated with it. Sri Lanka is on my bucket list and I’ll definitely visit Kandy whenever I go there.

It is on my list for the longest time. Hope to get there whenever I am in South Asia next. Love all your pictures and thanks for the information.

❥ tanvii.com

I haven’t visited Sri Lanka but it’s definitely on my wishlist and I love the fact that Lonley Planet says that Kandy is a city that looks good even in the rain. I love travelling and trying the local cuisine when i do so thanks for a great post.

I have always wanted to visit Sri Lanka but I learned so many new things here. The Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya looks absolutely stunning. Now I want to visit even more!

I love botanical gardens. Kandy looks amazing. Not a place I would have considered for a trip but it is now.

Sri Lanka is definitely on my travel list. Kandy looks beautiful I will make sure to add that to my future travel sightings.

Sri Lanka is probably one of the most underrated travel destinations. What most people don’t know is that it’s actually a very beautiful and peaceful country. This is timely, we are planning to go to Sri Lanka early next year and we’ll include Kandy in our itinerary 🙂

The botanical gardens and lake are amazing. I have never seen botanical gardens that big and colorful. We have a bunch in Texas but they’re kinda boring and are dead most of the year due to the high heat.

I did visit Kandy this year and after reading your blog, I realize that I missed out on many things. I ddid visit the temple of Sacred Tooth Relic although in morning. It looks even more atmospheric in night! It’s a pity I had no idea about Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue. It looks so good. I need to re visit Kandy.

I really love all the details and back stories you provided. The journey of the tooth is fascinating!

The buddha statue just blew my mind. That’s an amazing structure! Sri Lanka is beautiful!

This is the adventure that I’d love to do. I’m a nature lover and this fits well to my taste.

I haven’t been in Sri Lanka yet but after your post, I am sure gonna be there. Beautiful gardens, rich history, nice cuisine. Kandy, I am coming…

Not sure if my comment posted I have a dodgy internet connection now I can see the pictures so you sold it to me visually to!

I love your descriptions of the places in Sri Lanka is on my to do list to go . Wish you had included some pictures though!

Thank you for this enlightening post about Kandy in Sri Lanka. The Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya looks absolutely lovely.

Me being a Sri Lankan living in Canada, I just revisited this place through your post. Kandy is known for many for its religious activities and beautiful landscaping. I suggest that anyone who visit Sri Lanka not visit Kandy will regret a big traveling need of the country

I’m becoming regular reader since I fell in love with your writing!:)

Love the write up. Interesting dish of having roti chopped up. Looked yum!

Beautiful post and pictures!

I didn’t know Kandy was the centre of Sri Lankan Buddhism and really enjoyed reading more, especially about the tooth relic. I’m also a huge fan of lush botanical gardens, not to mention great local cuisine.

This is a beautiful post! You’ve sold Kandy to me and I’m going to make sure I visit next time I go to Sri Lanka! Great images too! Thanks so much for sharing!

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A Journey Through the Last Citadel of Sri Lanka

Journey through the last citadel of sri lanka.

Often referred to as the capital of the hill-country, and sometimes the ‘cultural capital’, Kandy is a city nestled in the lush central highlands of the exotic island of Sri Lanka. Its significance does not only stem from its rustic splendour, but also from its history as the only city that fought off foreign invasion for over 300 years before finally falling to the British Empire in 1815.

The present-day city has undergone a number of changes in the name of development, since the country gained independence from the British in 1948. However, it still showcases its old monarchic heritage, along with the heritage of the colonial master; the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a vestige of the city’s Sinhala monarchy, while the Queen’s Hotel is a reminder of its colonial past. Colonial edifices can also be seen in the outskirts of the city, especially the Kadugannawa Pass, which was a weapon of psychological warfare used to subjugate the locals.

The Kadugannawa Pass – Fulfilling a Prophecy

As you travel to Kandy via the old Colombo-Kandy Road you will find a peculiar looking tunnel that is carved out of the natural rock itself. Famously known as the Kadugannawa Pass, this tunnel was a cunning ploy by the British to break the spirits of the nobility of the Kandyan Kingdom. A local prophecy stated that the Kandyan Kingdom would only fall when invaders pierce the rocks of the hill-country. The British, employing a strategic psychological move against the last kingdom of Ceylon, attempted to fulfil the prophecy by carving out a tunnel during the construction of the Colombo-Kandy Road, cementing the legitimacy of British rule. Technological innovation was at the centre of this construction built in 1820 under the direction of Captain William Francis Dawson. His efforts for the implementation of ingenious methods to construct this road is immortalised in the form of the Dawson Tower, located in the heart of the Kadugannawa Town. Once you pass Kadugannawa and the National Railway Museum, you will arrive at an intriguing suburb of Kandy – Peradeniya.

Picturesque Peradeniya

The Peradeniya suburb has long been known for its lush vegetation coupled with intriguing buildings. One such building is the Peradeniya University, which is considered one of the most picturesque universities in South Asia. It showcases typical Kandyan architecture, set against the backdrop of lush greenery.

The Kandy Heritage Experience

Experience the Great Outdoors in Kandy

Two kilometres away from the university lies the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens – the largest botanical gardens in the country. Stroll along the pathways, breathing in the fresh cool mountain air perfumed by floral specimens from all around the world. Try and catch a glimpse of the intriguing ‘Cannonball Tree’, planted by King George V and Queen Mary in 1901, as it certainly does look other worldly. The gardens also have a record of being used as a major complex for the Allied effort during the Second World War. Utilised by the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces in South Asia, Lord Louis Mountbatten, the botanical gardens served as the headquarters of the South East Asia Command.

Kandy Town – The Past Meets Present

When you continue on your journey into Kandy, you will begin to see architectural traces of its historical past, dotted with modern conveniences such as malls and restaurants. Proceed along the Dalada Weediya and enter the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the complex that houses the sacred Tooth Relic, which is a significant spiritual artefact of the Buddhist world. Perched right beside the picturesque Kandy Lake, it stands out as a tranquil respite for the weary. There is much to see and experience at the temple, so remember to wear the appropriate attire stipulated by the authorities, in order to be admitted to the space. Rejuvenate your spirits by experiencing the poojas (rituals) that venerate the sacred relic. Go on to visit the Royal Palace situated in close proximity to the temple, which now serves as the Kandy National Museum. Witness ancient objects belonging to the old kings that ruled the Kingdom of Kandy, along with Buddhist artefacts that are sacred to the entire by Buddhist world.

Kandy’s colonial legacy remains visible in its architecture which has withstood the test of time. The Queen’s Hotel, a 160-year legacy of colonial occupation was the mansion of former British governors. It is a perfect example of how colonial architects married Victorian architecture with South Asian traditions. Now serving as a quaint hotel, the Queen’s Hotel is a convenient location from where you can access the major attractions of Kandy.

Sri Dalada Maligawa

Kandy Museum

Kandy’s colonial legacy is further visible at St. Pauls’ Church located right next to the Temple of the Tooth Relic. It is a masterpiece of neo-gothic styles combined with a Victorian-era interior. Consecrated in 1853, the Anglican church was a popular place of worship for the British garrison and the local populace who converted to Christianity under colonial rule. Located right behind the Temple of the Tooth Relic lies a peaceful and isolated plot of land containing the graves and elaborate headstones of the island’s former colonial masters. Named the British Garrison Cemetery, it is the resting place of men, women, and children who passed away during the colonial era. The British Nationals buried here were of high standing and were recipients of influential titles during British rule in the island. One such headstone that prominently stands out among the rest is the headstone of Sir John D’Oyly, the man who was instrumental in acquiring the Kandyan Kingdom for the British Crown by signing the Kandyan Convention in 1815.

Other monuments such as the Old Post Office, the First Kandy Kachcheri, and the Kandy Town Hall are equally important legacies of the colonial past. They are still used as important government buildings. The Kandy Lake was built by the last king of Sri Lanka, Sri Wickrama Rajasingha, in an attempt to beautify the city. It has now become a popular attraction in the city and is the perfect spot for a quiet evening stroll.

Tea Experience in Kandy

Since you have made it to Sri Lanka’s hill-country, it would be remiss to miss the opportunity to learn about the history of the world class Ceylon Tea. Heading out a few kilometres from the city you would come across the Ceylon Tea Museum in Hantana. The museum is an exemplary exposition of how tea was introduced to the island and subsequently developed to create the famous brand of Ceylon Tea. You could delve into the library of the museum and obtain a comprehensive knowledge on the healthy drink, while sipping on a cuppa, if you so wish.

Spending time in Kandy with the Family

Couple’s Time in Kandy

Solo Travel in Kandy

If you feel you have had your fill of history and culture, the quaint Helga’s Folly offers a completely different experience. A 15-minute ride from the city centre of Kandy lies a doorway into a world of whimsy and eccentricity. Owned by Madam Helga, Helga’s Folly is a unique landmark in Kandy that serves as a restaurant, hotel, an art gallery and museum. Each room is an explosion of flamboyant colours and styles and is indeed a feast for the senses.

Today, the city of Kandy is an eclectic mix that brings together rustic scenery, monarchic majesty and colonial legacy, providing the curious traveller a host of opportunities to immerse themselves in history, culture and heritage.

Related Tales

The City that Fought for Autonomy While All Around It Fell

The Home of an Ancient Relic of Buddhism

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Kandy travel guide: the best activities in busy Kandy in Sri Lanka

In this travel guide about Kandy in Sri Lanka, you will find everything you need to know about this busy city. What are the highlights and hotspots in Kandy? Where do you sleep in Kandy and what are nice restaurants here! Read on in this blog!

Travel guide Kandy: a busy and bustling Asian city

Okay, we’re going to be very honest, Kandy was not our favourite place in Sri Lanka. It is a busy city with smog, horns and lots of people. Nevertheless, we certainly enjoyed ourselves in Kandy, mainly because we found some peaceful places. In this travel guide, we, therefore, cover the nicest, quiet places in busy Kandy!

Kandy is one of the largest cities in Sri Lanka. With a population of 115,000 in a relatively small area, it is very busy. The city is centrally located on the island and can be reached in three hours from Colombo. Surrounded by hills (the Kandy plateau) with rice fields and tea plantations, the surroundings of Kandy are beautiful! As soon as you leave the city you can immediately enjoy this, something that we did. Besides, Kandy is known as the starting (or ending) point of the famous train ride to Ella.

Kandy: the start of the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka.

This may sound familiar, everyone knows the photos of a train through a green hilly landscape. These are taken during the train ride from Kandy to Ella. This train ride is known as one of the most beautiful in the world. You drive between the tea plantations in seven hours to southern Ella. We get off in Nuwara Eliya en route to climb Adam’s peak .

Read more about Ella and this train ride in this travel guide on Ella .

Tip: if you want a nice spot on the train, reserve your train tickets well in advance. This is possible at any train station. We recommend that you reserve them at least a week in advance .

How many days to spend in Kandy?

Two days is more than enough time to see the highlights of Kandy. If you are not a fan of busy cities or if you have limited time, stay in Kandy for just one night and then take the train towards Ella.

Planning your trip through Sri Lanka? Then read this blog with the ultimate  Sri Lanka itinerary ! Including tips and an overview of all the highlights in Sri Lanka. 

Six fun things to do in and around Kandy

Okay, we didn’t immediately love Kandy itself, there are nicer places in Sri Lanka to explore. But if you look a bit closer, Kandy has more than enough to offer. Consider below activities that are definitely worthwhile your time.

Note: for some activities, you will need transport (a tuk-tuk or scooter). We rented a scooter for Rs 1500 a day.

1. Visit the botanical gardens

Slightly south of the centre are the botanical gardens . A botanical garden may sound a bit dull, but I can really recommend this place! The gardens are situated in a large park where it is wonderful to walk around for a few hours, relax and enjoy the beautiful flowers, trees and nature. Be sure to look for the double coconut tree, which grows giant coconuts.

The entrance fee for the botanical gardens is Rs2000 per person (approximately €10).

2. Climb the Ambuluwawa tower (and try to pronounce it correctly)!

About 25 kilometres south of Kandy, near the city of Gampola, lies a mountain with the futuristic Ambuluwawa tower on top. What makes this tower so special, besides the beautiful view, is the design. This is reminiscent of an inverted shell. Very nice! You can climb the tower to enjoy the view of the underlying valleys. Admission is Rs 200 per person (approximately 1 euro).

Unfortunately, the tower was closed on the day we wanted to visit it, so we shot some images with a drone to get an impression. A bit of a shame because we rode the scooter for an hour to get here. Ah well, stuff like that is part of travelling!

3. Admire Bahiravokanda Vihara, a white Buddha with a beautiful view of the city

Just outside the centre is a white Buddha statue of 26 meters high. This place is nice and quiet and since it is slightly higher, you have a nice view of the valley of Kandy from here. Climb up the back of the Buddha statue for the best view. This stairwell is loved by local youth who relax here in the shade.

4. Walk along the big lake in the city centre

In the middle of the city lies a large lake: Kandy Lake . A nice place to escape the honking tuk-tuks and gasses of the public buses. Walk all the way around the lake in a few hours. Do you spot the small island in the middle of the lake?

5. Visit the temple of the tooth

Nice to combine with a visit to Kandy Lake: the Temple of the Sacred Tooth . This is one of the holiest places in Sri Lanka because there is an alleged tooth of Buddha located here. Whether this is really the case or whether it might be a replica, nobody knows, but the building itself is very beautiful.

The entrance fee for the Temple of the Tooth is Rs 1500, around € 7.50.

6. Take a hike to the beautiful Alagalla Mountains

At 20 kilometres from Kandy, you will find the Alagalla mountains, with the most beautiful summit being the “Potato mountain”, named after its shape reminiscent of a potato. It is possible to climb this summit, a nice day hike that is quite challenging at the end. To get here, take the train from Kandy to Ihala Kotte, from where the walk starts. You walk there and back in about six hours. At the last stretch to the top, bear in mind a difficult climb where you need to use a rope. It is also possible to go with a guide, ask around at your hotel.

Tip: start early, because it can get pretty hot. In addition, take into account leeches that are particularly common here after the rain.

Read our travel guide on beach town Trincomalee !

Great food in Kandy!

The Kandy Garden Cafe  – easy lunch This simple restaurant sits on the lake and you will find a mix of ex-pats and locals here for an easy lunch or quick dinner. The food is cheap but tasty. Click here for the location.

Buono – good coffee You can drink really tasty coffee (even with coconut milk) at Buono . This nice place is hidden on the first floor of a meaningless building in the centre but is really worth visiting. A place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and recharge with a cup of coffee, lemonade or avocado toast. Click here for the location.

Kandyan Muslim Hotel – the tastiest roti! Contrary to what the name says, Kandyan Muslim Hotel is not a hotel but a local restaurant. You sit here among the Sri Lankans while the tastiest roti, kottu (chopped roti with vegetables) and lassi are served. Be sure to try the kabool: roti sandwiches filled with vegetables, egg, or chicken. Delicious! Click here for the location.

Slightly Chilled Lounge – food with a view! Slightly Chilled Lounge , a restaurant/lounge bar, is one of the few places in Kandy where you can get something to eat or have a drink after eight in the evening. From the terrace outside you have a nice view and the Chinese cuisine is good. Prices are slightly higher. Click here for the location.

Where to sleep in Kandy?

This hotel is opposite the train station, so it’s centrally located. The rooms are spacious with a wonderful bed and a luxurious bathroom. The staff is always ready to help you. You sleep here from € 20 a night, including breakfast (2 people).

This beautiful hotel is set against the hills bordering Kandy Lake. So you have a nice view of the city here. The rooms are spacious and there is a kitchen! You can sleep here for as little as € 30 per night (2 people).

Treat yourself as a real prince or princess and stay at the super-luxury The Radh Hotel. This beautiful hotel has a spa and some rooms have a private swimming pool. You can sleep here from €130 per night (2 people).

Click here for our free Sri Lanka hotel guide !

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Why visit Kandy?

Kandy is sri lanka’s second largest city after colombo, brimming with a fascinating history, rich culture, spectacular beauty, and old-world charm., travel to kandy.

Lush forests, sprawling mountain ranges, the meandering Kandy Lake, known as the Sea of Milk, and an array of distinguished colonial building and magnificent Kandyan inspired architecture completes this Medieval City. This beautiful, laidback capital is only 72 miles (115 kilometres) inland yet boasts exceptional cultural and historical attractions, set amidst forested hills. Known as a pilgrimage destination for the Temple of the Tooth Relic (a sacred tooth of the Buddha), a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kandy is a sacred city, due to the importance and spiritual significance of this temple. It is also known for the vibrantly festive Kandy Esala Perahera, also known as the Festival of the Tooth, an important 10-day religious celebration each August. Lying at an altitude of 1 640 feet (500 metres) above sea level and surrounded by the Knuckles and Hunnasgiriya Mountain Ranges, the temperatures around Kandy are slightly cooler and conditions more pleasant than in the lowlands. An important and established Buddhist site, Kandy was formerly known as the city of Senkadagalapura. It served as the last capital of the Sinhalese kingdom before falling to the British in 1815.

Points of Interest in Kandy

• Stroll amidst the stunning Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya and marvel at exquisite orchids
• Wind your way around three gorgeous temples including Embekke, Lankathilake and Gadaladeniya, and chat with the locals in fragrant tea stalls
• View the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (a sacred tooth of the Buddha), a revered site for holy pilgrims
• Explore the serene War Cemetery revering the lives of those lost in the war, and the older Garrison Cemetery honouring the men, women and children buried far from home.

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15 Beautiful Things To Do In Kandy, Sri Lanka 2024

Looking for the most beautiful things to do in kandy.

The best things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka, aren’t difficult to find. Named a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to sample Sri Lankan culture, Kandy is a city a little different from the rest.

Framed by mist-draped mountains and the distant lights of far-off hill towns and villages, Kandy has an undeniable religious aura and a laid-back vibe compared to other popular Sri Lankan cities.

It’s at its best as the sun is setting when bell chimes and bird calls fill the air and the city comes to life in a way of its own.

You can’t go far wrong just wondering about the busy streets and taking in all the different sights and sounds, but there are also so many things in and around Kandy to visit. It would be a crime not to tick off at least a few of the most beautiful places in Kandy before you leave.

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Table Of Contents

• Temple of the Tooth Relic
• The Knuckles Mountain Range
• Huluganga Falls on the Hulu River
• The Kandy Museum
• The Royal Botanical Gardens
• Take the train from Kandy to Ella
• Go Waterfall Hunting
• Visit Udawattakele forest reserve
• Take A Cookery Class
• Bahirawakanda Temple
• Commonwealth War Cemetery
• Ceylon Tea Museum
• All-Inclusive Tour
• Visit Sigiriya Rock
• Alternative Ideas

The Best Time To Visit The Most Beautiful Places In Kandy

• How to get to Kandy
• Where to stay
• What to bring on your trip
• Where to next?

The Most Beautiful Things To Do In Kandy

The best things to do in Kandy don’t have to be expensive. You can find some truly beautiful sights by just wandering around the city.

But if you’re wanting to make the most of your time here then you should take a look at this list of the most interesting and spectacular things to do in Kandy and the surrounding area.

#1. Temple Of Tooth Relic

The Temple of the Tooth is considered one of the most important Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. Located north of Kandy lake, and very central, it would be a shame to miss out on this world-famous temple and it is definitely considered a Sri Lanka highlight.

It is thought that the sacred tooth of Buddha himself is enshrined in the temple. You can enter the room containing the tooth to offer your prayers, but nobody gets to see the tooth because it is kept in a golden casket inside a stupa-like structure.

The grounds are a nice place to visit too, so make time for both. The temple is housed in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy and was made a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.

Make sure you cover up (trousers and long sleeves) before you enter the temple as it is an important religious site.

Prices: Adult Rs 1500

Opening Times: Between 5:30 AM and 8:00 PM.

#2. Kandy Lake

This is honestly one of the most stunning places we have ever seen at sunset, and we’ve seen a lot of pretty sunsets! The sun sets behind the mountains, and casts an incredible golden and purple glow over the lake.

As if the reflections weren’t breathtaking enough, the growing dark brings out literally hundreds of huge bats which fly over the lake and nest in the surrounding trees. It is quite something.

After watching the impressive sunset show, you can then watch all the people running around with newspapers on their heads to try and avoid the droppings from the sky! And I shouldn’t laugh, as we got caught out here with a good old dollop. I’m not sure bat droppings are as lucky as bird droppings, but who knows!?

The lake, existing since 1807, is surrounded by some of the most beautiful places in Kandy. It is also known as the Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk and is an artificial lake.

Being in the heart of the city and beside some of the famous attractions of Kandy, it is a popular tourist site. You can expect it to be quite crowded in the evening with tourists and locals alike. If you would prefer to see it when it’s quieter we would suggest heading there at sunrise.

It is possible to take boat rides on the lake, though this isn’t something we tried when we were there. There are also lots of places to grab a bite to eat or a drink, while you take in the beauty of the lake.

#3. Hiking The Knuckles Mountain Range

One of the most beautiful places in Kandy and high up the list for our favourite place in all of Sri Lanka.

The Knuckles Mountain Range (So called because it resembles the shape of a knuckle of a clenched fist from the top) is definitely the most adventurous and off-the-beaten-track thing to do in Kandy.

The mountain Range is in the region towards the northern end of the Sri Lankan highlands (39 km from Kandy) and is the perfect place to try your hands at long-distance hiking and camping.

You will need to book a guided trek with a personal guide, as it is illegal to trek here without one. Although the walking isn’t too strenuous as hikes go, the weather in the area is extremely unpredictable and the area is very large.

Your guide will also be able to point out all the incredible wildlife found here, including the unique Crestless lizard, Kangaroo lizard, and Pygmy lizard. We even spotted a rattle snake on our two day trek.

You can read all about the different trekking options and the amazing variety of sights and eco systems you will encounter in our extremely detailed post on trekking the Knuckles Mountain Range. You can also find prices here (true in 2020) and recommendations of an excellent tour company.

✅ If you only have a day to spare you can book a day trek here

#4. Visiting Huluganga Waterfall

Just 30 km from Kandy, in the sleepy town of Dumbara, lies Huluganga Falls on the Hulu River. The river source comes from the beautiful Knuckles Mountain Range, and is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Kandy city itself, especially in the heat of the midday sun.

The waterfall is an impressive 75 meters high and is one of the most popular places to visit as a day trip from Kandy, even for locals. It certainly is a picturesque place to spend a few hours.

Take a picnic and make the most of the spray of the water when the weather gets too hot to bear!

Be aware that sudden increases in water levels can make Huluganga Falls a place to be cautious of in certain weather conditions. The drivers in Sri Lanka usually have local knowledge, so double-check with them or your hotel before you go!

#5. The Kandy National Museum

This museum is in the former Royal Palace and displays artifacts, weapons, and much more from this period in time. It’s an interesting place if you like history and want to learn more about the Kandian era.

You won’t need too long here, but it’s conveniently located next to The Temple Of The Tooth, so you can combine a visit.

#6. The Royal Botanical Gardens

One of the most beautiful places in Kandy, these Royal Botanical Garden s are a must-visit for nature lovers.

The gardens are very well maintained and teeming with beautiful flowers (what you see will depend on the time of year you visit). The place has a very calm and peaceful feel to it, so it is a great place to be in the heat of the day or to escape the noise of the city.

You will probably want to spend half a day here, though it will depend on how interested you are in the plants they have on show and how much you enjoy strolling around the pretty gardens. We thought 3-4 hours was the perfect amount of time and we timed it perfectly to fall over lunch so we could relax in the restaurant and plan a route around the gardens!

Price: Adult Rs 1500

Opening Times : 7.30am-5pm

#7. The Kandy To Ella Train

Famous for being one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, we can see why Sri Lanka’s trains have become a firm favourite tourist attraction. Even if you aren’t planning on visiting Ella, we can thoroughly recommend taking the train there and back (or grabbing a tuk-tuk back for a different experience!)

It passes through vibrant tea fields, lush greenery, and beautiful waterfalls, and you can experience it all from an open doorway with the wind in your hair. It takes 4 hours to Nuwara Eliya (so you could do this as a day trip) and 7 hours to Ella.

We did this exact journey by train, starting in Kandy, stopping over in Nuwara Eliya and ending in Ella. It was a real highlight of our visit to Sri Lanka and we can thoroughly recommend it!

#8. Go Waterfall Hunting

Kandy is surrounded by incredible forest land, mountains, and of course, waterfalls. It might be hard to juggle seeing more than one in a day while travelling on your own, but with a local guide you can experience four of the best waterfalls surrounding Kandy city.

Learn about each of these beautiful waterfalls or simply enjoy the short trek to them and the swim at the end!

✅ Book onto the waterfall hunting tour here

#9. Udawattakele Forest Reserve, One Of The Most Beautiful Places In Kandy

If you’re after a trek that you can do on your own then this is a great option. Udawattakele forest reserve is a favourite spot for getting away from the city. You could easily spend a full day exploring this area so pack a picnic and plenty of liquid and head off for the day.

If you’re into birdwatching, you can arrange a guide for around 500 LKR, or just grab a map at the entrance and follow the trails that lead to various different places of interest.

Price: Rs 550

#10. Take A Sri Lankan Cookery Class

Chitra is an experienced culinary instructor based in Kandy, who will teach you to cook like an expert (she even worked wonders with me, renowned for my lack of skills in the kitchen!)

This is a small group cooking class where you’ll learn how to make a variety of dishes, from lentils to jackfruit curry. You’ll make a starter, main, and dessert based on fresh, local food, and of course, you’ll get to try the fruits of your labour afterward!

Recipe options for vegan and gluten-free diets are available, just be sure to let them know when booking.

✅ Book a cookery class with Chitra here

#11. Bahirawakanda Temple And The Soaring Buddha

Just a few kilometers from Kandy city, the Bahirawakanda Temple is a major attraction and can actually be seen from most places in Kandy.

The statue of the Buddha is one of the tallest in all of Sri Lanka. If you have the time then it’s pretty cool to visit it up close, if just for the views.

Bahirawakanda Temple is an important monastery where many Buddhist events take place, with Buddhists meeting here from all over the world.

You can take the steps to reach the top of the hill or you can take a tuk-tuk ride if you’re not feeling quite so energetic. Remember to take water if you plan on taking the stairs, it’s a long way up!

Price: Rs 200

#12. CommonWealth War Cemetery

There are six commonwealth war cemeteries in Sri Lanka, yet the one in Kandy is known to be the most beautiful.

It is maintained by soldiers and is there to commemorate the soldiers of the British Empire who died during WW1 and WW2 .

#13. Ceylon Tea Museum

About 15 minutes’ drive from the centre of Kandy is the famous Ceylon Tea Museum. Dating back to 1925, this vintage tea museum is built on four floors where you can see the old tea-making equipment, machinery, and libraries and have a look around the museum.

Obviously, you can also taste this authentic Sri Lanka tea while enjoying the mountain views!

If you’re after more tea-related experiences in Sri Lanka (what better thing to do if you’re English!) then we can thoroughly recommend a trip to the Pedro Tea Estate just outside Nuwara Eliya, and a trip to the famous Lipton’s Seat .

Opening Hours: 8.30am-3.45pm Tue-Sat, to 3pm Sun

Price: Adult Rs 800

#14. Take An All-Inclusive City Tour

We LOVE a good city tour. There is no better way to get a feel for a city in a short amount of time than by taking a tour from a local resident who really knows the best hot spots.

This tour includes some of Kandy’s best sights, like the Giragama Tea Factory where you can learn how tea in the region is made, the Botanical Garden of Peradeniya which is one of the best things to do in Kandy, Kandy lake, a cultural show at one of Kandy’s best theatres and a whole lot more.

If you only have a short amount of time in Kandy then this is the perfect way to squeeze in a whole lot of culture!

✅ Book your all-inclusive city tour here

#15. Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Several hours away from Kandy is the impressive Sigiriya rock. This has become an iconic image for Sri Lanka, and it features on the front page of many guide books. One visit there and you will see why!

It’s a little much to find your own way there and back for a day but by booking onto a tour you will get to visit at a great price and cut the faff out of finding your own transport.

This is one of the best tours to Sigiriya Rock from Kandy, and includes Matale Hindu Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and Dambulla Cave Temple.

✅ Book a tour to Sigiriya Rock here

Optional Extra

Pinnawala elephant orphanage.

I don’t have the subject-specific knowledge to know what is right and wrong in this situation, so instead, I’ll just give a little overview of what I know and let you decide for yourselves.

The orphanage is situated in the Pinnawala village, in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. The orphanage was started in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a popular breeding ground for around 90 elephants who are raised inside the park. The orphanage rescue and cares for abandoned elephants but also for elephants who are seriously injured, separated from their group, or elephants that have been raised in captivity and donated to them.

They bring all elephants back to good health in the best way they can and try to raise them in their natural habitat as much as possible.

Before we visited we took the time to read a few first-hand accounts of the place, as we’re always a little cautious when it comes to visiting animal sanctuaries after some previous bad experiences.

From what others say, apparently some of the elephants are chained up and they exhibit distressing behaviour, like swaying back and forth and shaking their heads nonstop (though as I said, I’m no expert in elephant behaviour).

I also heard reports that they chain the animals to the river so that they have no choice but to be there for when the tourists arrive to see them bathing.

The optimist in me would argue that had they been left injured, or without their mothers in the wild, obviously, they would have suffered more. Elephants are an endangered breed, and caring for them is incredibly important.

If this orphanage makes the money it needs to care for these animals properly from taking them for a half an hour bath in the river and making them stay there, then maybe the good outweighs the bad.

Another huge part of me thinks perhaps the elephants are better left to die in nature than endure cruel behaviour from humans, which is mostly how they ended up here in the first place.

I wish I knew more, about whether they are running this ‘charity’ for profit, and about how the elephants are treated after the park closes.

I have seen some excellent examples of how humans can do good when it comes to protecting endangered animals (read my posts on Ol Pejeta in Kenya and the Nairobi elephant orphanage to find out more).

I have also seen the incredibly negative impact that tourists and travellers can have on this world’s wildlife (see my post about whale watching in Mirissa, Sri Lanka). The sad thing is that most people won’t know what they are in for until they have paid their money and supported the wrongdoing. As travellers we need to be aware of the impact we are having.

Although it’s impossible to know the ins and outs of organisations like this unless you work for one, I do think it’s important to do careful research before you pay money to people who are running a business without a care for the animals.

Make sure you do the same and make an informed decision before you go. There are plenty of first-hand accounts on the internet.

If I read any possible negative about a place then I make it my rule to stay away. More than anything, I have seen badly treated animals and it has scarred me for life. I never want to risk seeing it again.

For this reason, I avoided Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and it has not made it onto my list of the most beautiful places to visit in Kandy, but do your own research before you decide!

To be fair, I don’t think there’s a bad time to visit Kandy. It’s the atmosphere that really makes this place special. That being said, there are certain times of the year when you can expect to get pretty darn wet!

March – May: Hot but not too hot, this is a great time to visit the most beautiful places in Kandy. The temperature remains around 26 – 28 degree celsius so exploring on foot shouldn’t be too sweat-inducing, and you’ll be able to get out and explore the areas around Kandy too.

December – April: Again, a great time to visit Kandy. The weather shouldn’t be too cold or too hot, so you’ll be able to enjoy the place as much as it deserves!

October- November:  During these few months Kandy is in monsoon season. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit if now is your only chance, but you will get pretty wet! Monsoons are pretty impressive, so if you’re happy to run from building to building and get completely drenched then perhaps you should give it a go! This is a quieter time of year to visit, so you might get better deals on accommodation.

How To Reach Kandy

By Driver : One of the best and most popular ways to get around Sri Lanka is by hiring a driver. This usually works out cheaper, and almost always works out more time efficiently.

✅ Find out more about hiring a driver in Sri Lanka here

By Air:  Bandaranaike International Airport is the nearest airport to Kandy and you will probably want to take a taxi or hire a driver from here to get to Kandy itself. The journey should take you around 3 hours depending on traffic.

By Rail:  The Colombo to Kandy train  ride is a spectacle in itself, with great views and an incredible atmosphere. It is one of the most scenic train rides in the world. It will take around 6 hours, so it might be worth reserving a seat. You can read all about how to do that here . There are also frequent trains running from Ella and Nuwara Eliya if you are coming to Kandy from the other direction.

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. The train is usually recommended for comfort and reliability when travelling in Sri Lanka.

Tuk-tuk : You can rent and drive your own Sri Lankan tuk-tuk to go around the whole island, giving you lots of freedom and a good few laughs. Tuk-Tuk rental based in Colombo come highly recommended and costs around USD$18 a day for a rental period of 28 days.

Be warned though that Sri Lankan roads are a little hectic. You will want to be a confident driver to take this on!

Places To Stay In Kandy

Budget option-kandy dilruk homestay.

This cheap and cheerful option has lake views and is close to Kandy city centre. It’s got great reviews and won’t break the bank!

✅ Book your stay here

Mid Range Option-Kandy Eco Retreat

With a garden view, you can really escape it all at this eco-retreat. Close to the city centre, but not too close to soak up the traffic noise, this place will make for a pleasant stay while you visit the most beautiful places in Kandy.

Luxury Option-Sati Villa

Set in beautiful surroundings, this place really does have it all. Book a stay here to feel thoroughly pampered on your holiday in Sri Lanka.

The Equipment We Use When Travelling

Looking for the best equipment to capture your time in Kandy? This is the gear we wouldn’t be without!

Camera Equipment

We often get asked what equipment we use when taking photos and videos for our blog posts on Sri Lanka and our social media posts so here is all the information for you because we’re helpful like that!

Adam uses a Sony ILCE7KB.CE Full Frame Compact with a 28mm lens to take the amazing shots we get for the website. We also love the video quality of this camera. It is well worth the money!

We also always carry a Tripod for creating stable content.

✅ Buy the Sony Full Frame Compact on Amazon

If you’re seriously looking for decent camera equipment then we’ve written full reviews on the best cameras for blogging and the best action cameras .

Outdoor Gear

There are some great options to get outdoors in Kandy, and we thoroughly recommend planning at least one trek while you’re here.

For the Knuckles Range hike mentioned above you’ll want some proper hiking gear (listed in the post), but for day trips we recommend a decent pair of walking shoes and a sun shirt and hat to protect you from the blazing sun!

Travel Insurance

Safety Wing provides travel insurance and has a clear tick box section so you can easily see which activities are covered (and which aren’t!)

Get a quote now

Conclusion: The Most Beautiful Things To Do In Kandy

Hopefully this list has inspired you to head out and explore some of the best things to do in Kandy.

You could easily spend weeks in this fascinating city alone, but if you’re only in Sri Lanka for a short time then consider splitting your time between Kandy and some of the top destinations listed below. You won’t regret it!

• 5 days in Sri Lanka
• 2 weeks in Sri Lanka .
• Nuwara Eliya
• Diyaluma Falls near Ella
• Nine Arch Bridge in Ella
• Horton Plains

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post on the most beautiful places to visit in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Follow us on social media for more travel inspiration and tips!

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This is a beautifully presented blog. I have traveled the Shri Lanka quite extensively back in the day but obviously, there’s a whole lot more to see, pick up souvenirs and create memories.

Thank you for your kind comment. Sri Lanka is just beautiful, there’s so much to explore. I hope you make it back one day!

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Thanks for this helpful article. Please note that even with train delays, the journey from Colombo to Kandy is around 3 hours, not 6 hours and is a tiny fraction of the price of hiring a car!

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• Search Search Hi! We’re Emily, Adam and Tiny Cat, liveaboard sailors travelling the world on our 38ft sailboat and writing about it as we go. We hope we can inspire you to live the life you’ve always dreamed, whether that’s exploring the world or living a more simple way of life in a tiny home. Find out more. Patreon
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• 24 Best Places To Visit In Kandy In 2024 – Sri Lanka’s Spiritual Capital

23 Mar 2023

Sri Lanka – the island nation in South Asia – is indeed a pearl of joy shining brightly in the heart of Indian Ocean. The lazy charm clinging on to 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.

24 Best Places To Visit In Kandy In 2024

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 exciting places to visit, 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 travellers. 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 Fan
• 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

1. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – An Experience Worth Relishing

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 of 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 take a tour around 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 for them 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: 10 Best Places To Visit In Gampola 

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2. Temple Of Tooth Relic – For Spiritual Enlightenment

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

Adjoining most of the popular tourist places in Kandy and eateries with lake view, 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 definitely 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 Source

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 travelling, 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 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: 43 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

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 the close proximity of 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 the 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 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 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

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: 14 Waterfalls in Sri Lanka 

10. CommonWealth War Cemetery – Learn The Legendary History

This is one of those tourist places in Kandy that should definitely 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 vacation in Sri Lanka , 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: Trevor Ohlssen for wikipedia

The place is located in Randeniya. This is the only place where tourists can actually 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 animal. This Foundation is 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 travellers fond of mystical beauty of nature. The valley 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

The museum located in Hantane the 1925 vintage tea museum built on four floors where 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: 7 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, 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

Situated in Nuwara Eliya along with the waterfalls the place consist of the tea gardens. Tea cultivating lands are the major attraction for tourists. Its 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: 10 Villas In Kandy 

16. Galmaduwa Temple – Witness The Awe-Striking Structure

This is one of the most prominent temples in Sri Lanka . As the Gal Oya development programme commenced nearby Ampara area, the ruined complex of Galmaduwa Temple emerged. It was then that this temple was established again and modernized into 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

This too is an ancient temple in Kandy known for its glorious historical significance. This temple has been established amidst lush-green natural setting. This temple is considered to be one of largest and beautiful temples of 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 Buddhas life and there are various significant scenarios of his life that have been presented in the forest.

Entrance Fee:  INR 75 Famous For:  Historic Landmarks

Suggested Read: 15 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 Memoribilia

19. Giragama Tea Plantations – Absorb The Calm

Tea plantations are the common things about 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 the 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 in your list of places to see in Kandy for a refreshing experience as this place is one of the bestvisiting places in Kandy. This is also one of the best things to do in Kandy .

Entrance Fee:  NA Famous For: Tea Plantations

Suggested Read: 10 Exciting 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 vacay. 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

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 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 in Kandy.

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 top. Declared as environmentally protected areas, the range consists of seven peaks, Uuara Kanda being the highest one. This is also one of the bestvisiting places in Kandy.

Entrance Fee:  No entry fee Famous For: Panoramic Views

23. Royal Palace Of Kandy – Legacy & Heritage

Image Credit: Cossde for wikipedia.org

Royal Palace of Kandy is one of the historical kandy tourist attractions that is absolutely 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 definitely 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 definitely make a 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 definitely put this place on your itinerary if you happen to be visiting Kandy.

Entrance Fee:  NA Famous For: Spiritual Observations

How To Reach Kandy

By air: Bandaranaike International Airport is the nearest airport to Kandy, located 104 km far. 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. Colombo to Kandy train ride, offering great nature views, is one of the most scenic rides in the world.

Suggested Read:   10 Beach Resorts In Colombo 

Best Time To Visit Kandy

March – May: This is the ideal time to visit Kandy when the temperature remains around 26 – 28 degree celsius and conditions are ideal to plan 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 the travelers to enjoy the climate and the surrounding.

October- November: 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 to your itinerary.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Kandy

How do I get from Kandy to Sigiriya?

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.

What are places to visit in Kandy in one day?

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.

How can you reach Kandy from Nuwara Eliya?

The best way to reach Kandy from Nuwara Eliya is by train. The journey from Nuwara Eliya’s Nanu Oya Station to Kandy takes approximately 4 hours. You should ideally sit on the left side of the train to get beautiful views of the hills. There are a range of thrilling things to do in Nuwara Eliya.

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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Kandy Perahera English essay

Kandy Perahera comes in March. It is very interesting. A lot of people visit Kandy to see the Perahera. Many elephants walk in the Perahera. ‘The Maligawa elephant’ is the most beautiful.

It takes the casket of tooth -the tooth of Lord Buddha. The Kandyan dancers go in front. Elephants come after them. People watch the Perahera and they feel happy. It is a colourful festival.

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Exploring Sri Lanka

Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy – Sri Lanka (Dalada Maligawa – ශ්‍රී දළදා මාලිගාව)

Kandy was the capital of the Singhalese Kings from 1592 to 1815. Fortified by a terrain of mountains and the difficult approach Kandy managed to operate in independence from the Dutch, Portuguese, and the English till 1815. The city is a world heritage site declared by UNESCO, in part due to this temple.

The Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Tooth Relic is a temple in the city of Kandy in Sri Lanka. It was built within the royal palace complex which houses one of the only two surviving tooth relics of the Buddha, an object of veneration for Buddhists all over the world. The other tooth relic is been enshrined in a stupa called Somawathi Chethiya .

The Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy, the temple which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha, is possibly the most sacred Buddhist shrine in the world. It is venerated not only by Buddhists in Sri Lanka but by Buddhists all over the world.

King Wimaladharmasuriya I (1592 – 1603), the first to select Kandy as the ruling capital originally built a two-storied Temple for the Relic and brought the tooth relic from Delgamuwa Rajamaha Viharaya near Kuruwita in Sabaragamuwa which has been hidden for protection. The remains of this building no longer exist.

Wimaladharmasuriya II (1686 – 1706) built a three-storied temple and his son King Weeraparakrama Narendrasinha (1706 – 1738), the last Sinhalese king to rule the country, built a new two-storied temple seeing that the old temple built by his father has decayed. The last king of Sri Lanka, Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe (1797 – 1814) built the Pattirippuwa (the Octagon). Originally, the Pattirippuwa (octagon) was part of the royal palace. It was used by the king to address his fellow countrymen. Today the Pattirippuwa has become a part of the temple and houses ancient textures written in ola leaves.

The entrance to the temple complex is through the structure known as “ Maha Vahalkada” . There are two walls on the sides of the “ Vahalkada” . The outer wall is called “ Walakulu Bamma ” (wall of clouds). This same pattern is also used in the wall surrounding the Kandy lake. The inner wall is called “ Diyareli Bamma ” (wall of water ripples). Both these walls are built with pockets to place oil lanterns during the night.

After passing the “ Vahalkada ” and the moat, you come to a “ Makara Thorana “, the Dragons Arch. Next is the tunnel “ ambarawa “. Passing this you come to the ground floor of the temple complex. The lower floor of the building is called “ palle maluwa “. This inner chamber is fortified with a large wooden door and decorated with bronze and ivory. The area in front of the door is called the “ Hevisi Mandapaya ” (Drummers Courtyard) where the daily rituals are carried out.

The tooth relic is kept on the upper floor in the chamber called “Vadahitina Maligawa” The door of this chamber is covered with gold silver and ivory. The tooth relic is encased in seven gold caskets studded with precious stones. The outer casket is studded with precious stones offered to the tooth relic by various rulers.

On the right of the relic is the “ Perahara Karanduwa ” (relic chamber used in the annual Asala Mangalaya perahara procession) kept inside a bulletproof glass display. This has been donated by India. Over the relic chamber, there is a golden lotus flower studded with precious stones hanging from the ceiling.

One of the very few who had seen the tooth relic outside the keepers of this sacred relic is John Davy an Englishman in 1817, who published it in his book called An Account of the Interior of Ceylon in 1821. According to him, it was inside 5 gold karaduwa (caskets). The relic itself was wrapped in a pure gold sheet and put in a gold case studded with emeralds, diamonds, and rubies just the size to receive it. This was kept inside a gold casket also studded with precious jewels. This is in a second, third, and fourth caskets which are all richly decorated with emeralds, diamonds, and rubies. This fourth Casket which is about 1 1/2 feet in height was placed inside of the great Karanduwa (casket). He describes the relic itself as yellow and brownish at the truncated base.

On the left of the temple is the new building which houses the taxidermised remains of the Maligawa Tusker-Raja. This magnificent tusker was captured in the jungles of Eravur in the Batticaloa District in 1925. He was purchased by Tikiri Banda Manampitiya Dissawe for Rs 3,300/- in 1937 and was donated to the temple by him. For over 50 years Raja carried the golden casket which carried the tooth relic and in 1984 he was declared as a national treasure by the government. This is only the second time a tusker has been declared a national treasure. Raja died In 1988 after a long illness and then it was decided that he to be taxidermised. This is the first time a tusker has been taxidermised.

National Museum

Next to the Temple of the Tooth, the Kandy National Museum once housed the concubines of the Kings of Kandy and now contains a clutter of royal and noble relics including thrones, scepters, and ceremonial swords, dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, before the kingdom’s final decline. It was here that the Kandyan chiefs finally surrendered to the British in 1815. After inviting them in to depose the unpopular king Sri Wickrama Rajasinha, the rebel chiefs attempted to dismiss the British with perfunctory thanks, only to find that their new rulers had no intention of leaving. The museum is open Saturday-Thursday 09:00-17:00.

 LTTE Terrorist Attack on the Temple in 1998

This temple, the most sacred Buddhist temple for all the Buddhists in the world was attacked by the Tamil LTTE terrorists using a massive truck bomb on 25th January 1998 killing 8 people including an infant, and injuring 15. This is probably the first time in contemporary world history that a sacred shrine of such international religious significance and a site of world heritage has been deliberately targeted by a terrorist group in the world in an attempt to bring about its destruction.

The blast caused extensive damage to most areas of the Sri Dalada Maligawa. However, the Sacred Tooth Relic which is housed in the inner chamber miraculously escaped any damage. Also extensively damaged by the blast were the Vishnu, Natha, and Pattini Devales (Shrines) and St. Paul’s Church all of which are located in the ‘Sacred and Royal Square’, adjacent to the Sri Dalada Maligawa complex.

Visitor Information

As a visitor or a devotee of Buddha, due respect should be given when entering this site. Due to its importance and the influx of visors, the temple authorities have imposed some dress codes which you must comply

• Compulsory Dress Code – All men and women must wear long trousers or skirts that cover their legs. If you come in a short skirt or a trouser, a sarong will be loaned to you to be worn during the visit.
• As in all Buddhist shrines, footwear and headwear should be removed before entering. There is a shoe room where you could leave the footwear safely at no cost – a small donation is appropriate.
• Light color clothing is more suitable – preferably white or cream colors.
• Wear clothes that do not expose the body excessively (eg. too much of cleavage/shoulders / back )
• Respect the worshipers – don’t talk loud.
• The Temple is open from 5.30 AM – 8 PM all seven days of the week.
• Ancient Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka
• Other Places of Interest Within Close Proximity
• The history of the Sri Daladawa (sacred Tooth Relic)
• Some Historical Places Associated with Dalada Maligawa
• The Sacred Tooth Relic – the Palladium of the rulers
• History and Legend of the Maha Maluwa
• Odyssey of the ‘Danta Dhatu’
• The origin of the Sri Dalada Perahera tradition
• Esala festival and the Dalada Perahara
• Sri Dalada Perahara in the unforgettable days gone by
• Sri Dalada Perahera (Kandy Esala Perahara)
• Knox’s impressions of the Kandy Perahara
• Kandy – The Last Kingdom of Sinhale

 Map of  the Dalada Maligawa

The map above also shows other places of interest within a approximately 20 km radius of the current site. Click on any of the markers and the info box to take you to information of these sites

Zoom out the map to see more surrounding locations using the mouse scroll wheel or map controls.

Driving Directions to Dalada Maligawa

Kandy can be reached from Colombo on the old Colombo – Kandy road (option 1) which is scenic but heavy in traffic, especially on Fridays and Sundays. However, the new Central Expressway (option 2) has opened up a new route which is longer but less cumbersome.

Photos of Dalada Maligawa from the past ( from Images of Ceylon )

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Abhayagiri Monastery (21) Ampara District (193) Anuradhapura District (202) Badulla District (113) Batticaloa District (20) Colombo District (73) Galle District (62) Gampaha District (57) Hambantota District (103) India (1) Jaffna District (72) Kalutara District (50) Kandy District (187) Kegalle District (151) Kilinochchi District (13) Kingdom of Anuradhapura (80) Kingdom of Kandy (14) Kingdom of Kotte (9) Kingdom of Polonnaruwa (55) Kurunegala District (168) Maha Vihara (14) Mannar District (47) Mannar Island (10) Matale District (83) Matara District (41) Mihintale (22) Monaragala District (93) Mullaitivu District (20) Negombo (6) Nuwara Eliya District (117) Polonnaruwa District (113) Puttalam District (33) Ratnapura District (156) Trincomalee District (47) Vavuniya District (30) waterfalls in Sinharaja (3) z Delft 1 (5) z Jaffna 1 (20) z Jaffna 2 (24) z Jaffna 3 (12)

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