If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, be sure to put Kandy on your must-visit list. This charming city is home to some of country’s most popular tourist attractions, including the Temple of the Tooth and the Royal Palace.
Kandy can be considered as year-round travel destination. The temperatures are mostly mild throughout the year, making it a comfortable place to sightsee. There is always something going on in this city, from cultural festivals to religious ceremonies, so you can easily find what to see and do in Kandy.
Here is the only ultimate travel guide you need to get up-to-date information about best things to do and places to visit in Kandy, Sri Lanka. We’ve created the full list of tourist attractions in this city for you to plan perfect vacation.
Kandy City General Info
Kandy is recognized cultural capital of the whole country. UNESCO has added the center of Kandy to the World Heritage List because of its colonial architecture and ancient Sri Lankan traditions that have been well preserved. The city is landlocked and is surrounded by mountain peaks and picturesque tropical forests.
- Location: central mountainous Sri Lanka., 115 km northeast of Colombo.
- Average air t: in winter: during the day – +28 degrees, at night – +19; in summer: during the day – +29, at night – +21.
- Best season to visit: June to August or January to March.
- Rainy season: from October to December, the maximum amount of precipitation, it rains in April.
- Kandy, Sri Lanka on the map: link .
Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Kandy, Sri Lanka
Those who have chosen Kandy for a holiday in Sri Lanka travel to the central mountainous part of the island for only a few days, and then return to the coast. The main tourist attraction in Kandy is trekking. Hiking or motorbike tours around the city are very popular: hundreds of routes lead to temples, caves, waterfalls and colorful tea plantations.
In the city itself, there are many flea markets located in each area, where you can buy tea, local products, try out national food and buy some souvenirs to bring back home.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy is one of the most popular temples in Sri Lanka. The temple is home to a relic of the Buddha, known as the tooth of Lord Buddha. The tooth is said to have been retrieved from his funeral pyre and has been held in the temple since then.
The temple is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists and very popular tourist attraction. In addition to the temple, there is a theater of music and dance, souvenir shops, a historical museum and much more on the territory.
Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
A large snow-white Buddha statue, with a small temple and a viewing platform near it is another place to visit in Kandy. Entrance fee is 300 rupees. The statue of the largest standing Buddha in Sri Lanka is made of granite. It’s located on a hill overlooking the city with great views.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
Another must-visit place in Kandy is Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, which is one of the largest botanical gardens in Asia. It covers 147 acres and is home to over 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palm trees. The gardens are open from morning until evening with paid entrance.
Royal Palace Complex
One of the tourist attractions in Kandy is Royal Palace. It’s beautiful place that was built in the 18th century. If you want to learn more about Sri Lankan history and culture, go ahead to this palace. It is also home to a number of museums, including the Sri Lanka National Museum.
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary and Forest Reserve
Udawattakele Sanctuary should be on your list of places to visit in Kandy. Forest reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including some very rare species of animals. The best time to visit the sanctuary is early in the morning, when the animals are most active. There are also several hiking trails through the reserve, so you can explore the area at your own pace.
Kandy Traditional Dance Performance
Trip to Kandy will be incomplete without seeing a traditional Kandyan dance performance. These dances are performed by local dancers in colorful costumes, and they tell stories of myths and legends. You can see a Kandyan dance performance at the Cultural Centre, which is located in the city centre. Another popular place is Kandy Lake Club.
Kandy Garrison Cemetery
A small cemetery for British who died in Ceylon. This place has been preserved here since the British colonization. Tombstones made of stone, clean paths, park area. This place is 200-300 meters walking distance from the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Open from 8 am to 6 pm.
Kandy View Point / Kandy Viewpoint
It offers a beautiful view of the city and the lake, with an opportunity to see a large statue of Buddha. Usually, there are not so many tourists, so you can really enjoy the views.
Lankatilaka Temple
Lankatilaka or Lanthatilaka is an ancient temple, that is worth visiting. It is very beautiful white stone building with a carved roof. Nearby you can find souvenir shops. This temple is located on the hill, so the views from its observation deck are awesome.
Ceylon Tea Museum
The Ceylon Tea Museum is very popular tourist location in Kandy. Actually, this place is located 3 km away from the city, but it’s worth visiting. You’ll have a chance to see rare equipment that was used for tea production, as well as visit library and learn a lot about tea manufacturing industry.
Ticket price for foreign visitors – 1000 LKR, museum is closed on Mondays, working hours 8.30 – 15.00. You can ask for a tour in English for 800 rupees, or you can go straight to the tea shop on the top floor.
World Buddhist Museum
International Buddhist museum is a nice place where you can learn a lot about the history of Buddhism expansion. Museum is located in beautiful colonial building, you can explore it on your own or by joining the tour.
Best time to visit Kandy, Sri Lanka
Kandy is a beautiful city located in Sri Lanka. It is a popular tourist destination, and there are many things to do and see in the area. In order to get the most out of your visit, it’s better to know about the best time to visit this city.
The Yala moonsoon season is perfect time to visit Kandy. The weather is warm and humid, with lush green landscapes and thundering waterfalls that are full.
There are plenty of things to do in Kandy during this time, from exploring the city’s ancient temples and museums to trekking through the surrounding countryside. You can also have a great time in Kandy during the dry season, from December to March.
This is when the city is at its busiest, with tourists flocking to see the sights and experience the culture. However, if you’re looking for a more authentic experience, it’s worth visiting during the off-season.
From April to November, Kandy is quieter and the prices are lower so it’s a win-win.
Kandy City FAQ
Yes, Kandy is definitely worth visiting in Sri Lanka. The city has a lot to offer tourists, including some great temples and cultural attractions, as well as plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining. The best time to visit Kandy is during the dry season, from December to April. However, even during the wet season (May to November), Kandy usually has good weather, with only occasional showers.
At least 3 days in Kandy is enough to see the major attractions. However, if you want to explore the city and its surroundings, then you’ll need about 5 days.
Kandy is Sri Lanka’s second-largest city, and it was the last capital of the ancient kingdoms. The city is located in the midst of mountains. Despite being a large city, Kandy still has a village feel to it.
Kandy is known for its Temple of the Tooth, a Buddhist temple housing the relic of the tooth of the Buddha. The temple is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Other popular tourist attractions in Kandy include the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Peradeniya University campus, and the Ceylon Tea Museum. Kandy is also home to a number of traditional arts and crafts, such as wood carving, batik, and gemstone cutting.
Kandy is the best city in Sri Lanka because it offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for tourists.
From temples and cultural sights to nature reserves and relaxing spas, there’s something for everyone in Kandy. The city is also well located, making it easy to get around and explore all that Sri Lanka has to offer.
