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Kandy
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka

Kandy

Cultural heart of Sri Lanka's hills — Kandy, nestled amidst emerald hills, is a vital cultural and religious hub of Sri Lanka. This charming city, once the last royal capital, boasts a rich history evident in its ancient temples and serene landscapes.

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Kandy in 60 seconds

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  • 📍Top places to visit: Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Kandy Lake, Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
  • 🍽️What to eat: Rice and Curry, Kottu Roti, Hoppers (Appam)
  • 🗓️Best time to visit: The dry season from December to April offers pleasant weather with sunshine.

Good to know

Best time to visit
The dry season from December to April offers pleasant weather with sunshine. The Poya days (full moon) are significant for Buddhist pilgrims.
Getting around
Tuk-tuks are the most common and convenient way to navigate Kandy's hilly terrain. Local buses offer a more budget-friendly option for longer distances.
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.
Language
Sinhala is the primary language, with Tamil also spoken. English is widely understood in tourist areas and by many locals.
Safety
Kandy is generally a safe city for tourists. Exercise caution with your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and be aware of your surroundings.
Daily budget
Budget: $30-60, Midrange: $70-150 per day
💶 Travel money in KandyCurrency, cards vs cash, costs & tipping in Kandy
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Top places to visit

1Temple

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

The most important Buddhist site in Sri Lanka, housing the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. Visit during the evening ceremony for a truly spiritual experience.

2Park

Kandy Lake

A picturesque man-made lake in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a romantic evening walk. Enjoy the views of the surrounding hills and the Temple of the Tooth.

3Park

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

One of Asia's finest botanical gardens, featuring an incredible collection of orchids, spices, and palm trees. It's a tranquil escape from the city bustle.

4Landmark

Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

A massive white Buddha statue perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of Kandy city. It's an impressive sight, especially at sunset.

5Landmark

Kandy Garrison Cemetery

A peaceful and historic cemetery with well-maintained graves of British colonial officers and soldiers. It offers a glimpse into Kandy's colonial past.

6Museum

Ceylon Tea Museum

Learn about the fascinating history and process of Ceylon tea production. You can even sample some of the finest local teas.

7Activity

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Home to over 90 rescued and orphaned elephants, offering a chance to see them bathing and feeding. Responsible tourism practices are encouraged here.

8Shopping

Kandy City Centre

A modern shopping complex offering a wide range of goods, from local handicrafts to international brands. It also houses restaurants and a cinema.

9Restaurant

The Kandy Muslim Hotel

A local institution famous for its delicious biryani and other South Indian Muslim specialties. A must-try for food enthusiasts.

10Nightlife

The Pub

A popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy drinks and live music. It offers a relaxed atmosphere to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

11Viewpoint

Kandy Viewpoint

Offers a stunning vantage point to capture the iconic Kandy skyline, especially the lake and the Temple of the Tooth. Ideal for photography.

12Market

New Ranweli Spice Garden

Explore a variety of local spices, herbs, and traditional Ayurvedic products. Learn about their uses and purchase authentic souvenirs.

13Park

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

A dense forest reserve within the city, offering hiking trails, bird watching opportunities, and a serene natural environment.

14Museum

Sri Lanka Planetarium

A place to learn about astronomy and space, offering educational shows and exhibits. It's a unique indoor attraction.

15Landmark

Diyathilake Power Station

An interesting piece of engineering and a testament to Sri Lanka's development. Offers insights into hydroelectric power generation.

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Things to do

Witness the Kandy Esala Perahera

If visiting in July or August, experience this grand Buddhist festival with magnificent parades of elephants and traditional dancers.

Take a Sri Lankan cooking class

Learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes using fresh local ingredients and spices.

Go on a scenic train ride

Embark on a breathtaking train journey from Kandy to Ella, passing through lush tea plantations and misty mountains.

Explore the local markets

Wander through Kandy's bustling markets to find unique handicrafts, spices, and local produce.

Visit a tea plantation

Take a tour of a nearby tea estate to learn about tea cultivation and enjoy a freshly brewed cup.

Enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance

Immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture with a vibrant and energetic traditional dance show.

Where to stay

Kandy Lake Area

Ideal for first-time visitors, offering easy access to major attractions and a pleasant atmosphere.

Peradeniya

Suits nature lovers and those interested in botany, with proximity to the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Hilltop areas

Perfect for those seeking tranquility and stunning views, though transportation might be less frequent.

City Center

Best for budget travelers and those who want to be close to transport links, markets, and local eateries.

What to eat

Rice and Curry

Sri Lanka's staple dish, featuring a generous serving of rice accompanied by various vegetable and meat curries.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from shredded roti stir-fried with vegetables, egg, and meat, often served spicy.

Hoppers (Appam)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with a sambol or curry.

Lamprais

A flavorful rice dish baked in banana leaves with meat, curries, and sambol.

Pol Sambol

A spicy condiment made from grated coconut, chilies, onions, and lime juice, served with most meals.

Watalappan

A rich and sweet dessert made from coconut milk, jaggery (palm sugar), and spices like cardamom and nutmeg.

Day trips

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

An ancient rock citadel with stunning frescoes and ruins, located about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Kandy.

Nuwara Eliya

Known as 'Little England,' this hill station is famous for its tea plantations and cool climate, about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.

Dambulla Cave Temples

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring magnificent Buddhist murals and statues within five caves, roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.

Insider tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees).
  • Carry insect repellent, especially for evenings and nature walks.
  • Bargain politely at markets, but be reasonable.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking bottled or filtered water.
  • Learn a few basic Sinhala phrases like 'Ayubowan' (hello).
  • Be mindful of the monkeys around tourist spots; they can be mischievous.

Traveler reviews

4.8
★★★★★
5 traveler reviews
P
Priya S.
India
★★★★★
last month

Kandy was a spiritual awakening! The Temple of the Tooth was incredibly moving, and the serene walk around Kandy Lake at sunset was pure magic. Don't miss the delicious kottu roti from a local street vendor.

M
Mark T.
USA
★★★★★
in April

Absolutely loved Kandy! The Royal Botanical Gardens were stunning, a true oasis of calm and beauty. We also enjoyed the cultural show, which was vibrant and entertaining. The people were so welcoming.

S
Sophie D.
France
★★★★☆
a few weeks ago

Kandy has a special charm. The views from the hills above the city are breathtaking. While the main attractions are great, it can get quite busy. Still, the atmosphere is unique and worth experiencing.

K
Kenji Y.
Japan
★★★★★
in May

A truly enchanting city. The Sacred Tooth Relic Temple is a must-see, its history and devotion palpable. Exploring the bustling markets and trying some sweet coconut sambol was a highlight of our Sri Lankan adventure.

M
Maria G.
Brazil
★★★★★
last year

Kandy stole a piece of my heart! The journey up to the Temple of the Tooth was filled with a sense of peace. We spent an afternoon exploring the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, and it felt like a hidden paradise. The fruit juices were incredibly refreshing.

Good to know — FAQ

How do I get to Kandy?
Kandy is accessible by train or bus from major cities like Colombo and Ella. You can also hire a private taxi or take a flight to the nearest international airport (Bandaranaike International Airport) and then travel to Kandy.
What is the dress code for temples?
When visiting Buddhist temples, it is essential to dress modestly. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. You will also need to remove your shoes and hats before entering the temple premises.
Is Kandy suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, Kandy is generally safe and welcoming for solo travelers. The public transport is efficient, and many attractions are easily accessible. Joining group tours can also be a good way to meet other travelers.
What souvenirs should I buy in Kandy?
Kandy is known for its beautiful handicrafts, including wooden carvings, batiks, and silver jewelry. You can also find high-quality Ceylon tea and spices to take home.

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