Things To Do
in Kandy
Kandy is a lush highland city in central Sri Lanka, set against a backdrop of misty hills and tea plantations. It is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO-listed royal capital with centuries of Kandyan culture. The city center buzzes with markets, colonial architecture, and scenic lakefront strolls.
Surrounding forests, gardens, and viewpoints offer a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of the lowlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Kandy by visiting the breathtaking Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. As you walk through the temple grounds, immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere filled with devotees and worshippers. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the museum that houses historical artifacts related to Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage.
After a morning of spiritual exploration, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, where you can savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Post-lunch, take a stroll around Kandy Lake, enjoying the cool breeze and picturesque views while spotting local birdlife. This peaceful escape will rejuvenate your spirit before continuing your adventure.
As the sun sets, attend a captivating cultural show that showcases traditional Kandyan dance and music. The vibrant performances highlight the history and folklore of Sri Lanka, leaving you in awe of the local talent. After the show, relax at a nearby café, sipping a cup of Ceylon tea and reflecting on the day's experiences.
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, just a short drive from Kandy. Wander the vast gardens, admiring the diverse flora and picturesque landscapes while breathing in the fragrant air. Take your time to explore the Orchid House and the Giant Bamboo section, both captivating highlights of the gardens.
Following your garden visit, enjoy a hearty meal at one of the garden's cafes, surrounded by lush greenery. Then, embark on a nature hike to the nearby Knuckles Mountain Range, where breathtaking vistas and colorful wildlife await you. This adventure will thrill nature lovers and provide a perfect backdrop for photography.
Return to Kandy in the evening and watch the town come alive with lights and sounds. Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant, sampling delicious local dishes made from fresh ingredients. Conclude your day with a peaceful ramble along Kandy Lake under the stars, savoring the tranquility of this enchanting city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🥪Lunch at mid-range eatery | $6-12 |
| 🚖Short tuk-tuk ride | $3-8 |
| ☕Tea or cafe drink | $1-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and iconic temple
- Lush highland scenery and tea-country access
- Pleasant climate and friendly people
- Limited nightlife compared to Colombo or beach towns
- Hilly streets and uneven terrain can be challenging to walk
- Heavy monsoon rains can disrupt travel and road access
- "Ayubowan" - Hello / Bless you
- "Istuti" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Vanakkam" - Hello (Tamil)
- "Nandri" - Thank you (Tamil)
Places to Visit in Kandy
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive golden roof and white walls; best photographed from the precincts or along the perimeter during early morning light.
Calm reflections of the city with surrounding hills; ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
A large white Buddha statue atop a hill offering sweeping city views—great for panoramic shots, especially at dusk.
Iconic avenues, giant trees, orchid displays, and a river背景—excellent for wide landscape and nature shots.
Food in Kandy
Kandy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The quintessential Sri Lankan meal with multiple curries served with rice, available everywhere from hotels to small eateries.
Must-Try!
A sizzling chopped roti dish with vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat; widely found at street stalls and casual restaurants.
A Dutch-influenced package of rice, meat curry, sambol, and accompaniments baked in banana leaf; popular at dinners and some local eateries.
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour; varieties include plain, egg, or coconut milk hoppers—great for breakfast or snack.
A rich coconut milk and jaggery custard pudding flavored with spices; a common dessert in markets and restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for tasting local flavors and picking up spices.
Stalls around the Kandy Lake serving kottu, isso (hoppers), and other Sri Lankan street bites; ideal for a quick, inexpensive meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), remove shoes before entering temples, and speak softly.
Use a polite tone; Ayubowan is a respectful greeting in Sinhala. Show respect to elders and monks in public spaces.
Ask for permission in sensitive areas and inside religious sites; avoid flash in interiors where prohibited.
Avoid public displays of affection in rural areas; be mindful of crowd etiquette at markets and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Kandy
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% at hotels and better-service venues is common.
Cash (Sri Lankan rupees) is widely accepted; many places accept debit/credit cards, especially in hotels and larger restaurants. Carry cash for markets and small stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May brings warm days with high humidity. Mornings are ideal for temple visits and outdoor sights; expect occasional showers in the afternoon.
May–Sept brings frequent rain and slippery roads. Plan for indoor activities or flexible outdoor plans; carry a light raincoat.
Oct–Feb features cooler mornings and relatively drier conditions. Layered clothing helps as evenings can be chilly in the highlands.
Kandy at Night
Hiking in Kandy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged highlands offering challenging hikes and cloud forest scenery nearby.
Green, rolling hills with scenic viewpoints and accessible hikes near Kandy.
Airports
How to reach Kandy by plane.
Main international gateway near Colombo; about 115–130 km from Kandy by road; airport transfers and domestic connections readily available.
Domestic-focused airport near Colombo; useful for short hops when available, otherwise drive to Colombo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group; Sinhala is the main language in Kandy.
Significant Tamil-speaking communities contributing to the cultural mosaic.
A smaller but visible Muslim community enriching local culture.
Growing numbers of visitors and expats drawn to culture and tea-country experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Sri Lanka and a common pastime in Kandy; you’ll find local clubs and matches in parks and schools.
Widely played in hotels and community centers; a common leisure activity.
A favored sport in schools and local leagues; easy to observe or join in on casual play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kandy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Sri Lankan vegetarian options are abundant: lentil and chickpea curries, vegetable curries, and pol sambol; most places accommodate spice levels and can substitute meat stock when requested.