The Best Things to Do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Nestled among the lush green hills of Sri Lanka, surrounded by majestic mountains, lies Kandy—the cultural heart of the island. Brimming with a vibrant urban atmosphere, Kandy is an integral part of the cultural triangle, alongside Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Amidst this city, you’ll discover world-renowned religious sites, delicious cuisine, royal gardens, and unique cultural experiences that define Kandy’s distinct charm within Sri Lanka. As the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, Kandy boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, promising a myriad of things to do. Beyond being the gateway to the hill country, Kandy is famed for the iconic train ride to Ella. Explore this comprehensive travel guide to uncover the best things to do, ideal places to stay, mouthwatering culinary delights, and efficient ways to reach Kandy.

* Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. This way you’re helping us write awesome travel guides and keep providing you with free content. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.

Is Kandy worth visiting?

Absolutely! Kandy is a must-visit spot in Sri Lanka! Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, it’s the cultural heart of the country. The main attraction is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, safeguarding a sacred Buddha tooth, making Kandy a significant pilgrimage site. This city carries a special spiritual vibe, all thanks to the importance of the Tooth Temple.

Looking for the ideal Sri Lanka Route? Check out our 3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary

How many days to spend in Kandy?

The ideal duration to spend in Kandy depends on your overall travel plans in Sri Lanka. If you’re on a tight schedule, it’s advisable to keep your stay in Kandy short. During our trip, we spent two nights, dedicating one full day to exploring all the attractions in Kandy, which we’ll cover shortly. One day is ample to soak in the charm of this ancient city, visiting its historical sites and savoring its delicious cuisine. If your itinerary allows for more time, consider extending your stay by an extra night to explore recommended day trips in the vicinity.

How to spend one day in Kandy?

Here’s a breakdown of how we spent an entire day exploring Kandy:

• Begin your morning with a visit to the botanical garden, spending a few leisurely hours there.
• On your way back to the city, make sure to pass by Kandy’s viewpoint for a scenic detour.
• Once back in the city, take a stroll through the old town’s streets, adorned with colonial architecture, and then head for a delightful lunch.
• Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake before making your way to the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
• Don’t miss the impressive Big Buddha situated in the hills of Kandy.
• Cap off your day with a mesmerizing Kandyan Cultural dance show.
• Try out some delicious local cuisine for dinner.
• The following day, embark on a picturesque train journey to Ella.

How to Get Around Kandy

Exploring Kandy’s town center on foot is a breeze due to its compact size, allowing you to easily appreciate the colonial architecture and local atmosphere. However, for attractions a bit farther away, like the royal botanical garden or the Buddha on the hill, hopping on a tuk-tuk is a convenient option. Tuktuk fares typically range between 200-400 LKR for a one-way trip, and it’s advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the ride.

During our visit, we opted for the convenience of a pre-arranged tuk-tuk through our accommodation. We agreed on a fixed rate of 1000 LKR, which covered multiple stops and even included a return trip to our homestay at the end of the day.

Additionally, as Kandy is a larger city, services like the PickMe App are available, offering more options for transportation to various attractions.

For those with limited time, a one-day Kandy tour is a fantastic option to efficiently explore all the noteworthy sights. Consider booking a Kandy day tour for a hassle-free experience.

Best Things to Do in Kandy

1. Visit The Temple Of The Sacred Tooth

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, also called Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a centuries-old Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It’s not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a significant pilgrimage destination believed to house a tooth relic of Buddha. People from all over the world come here to worship.

If you go early, you can enjoy a drumming ceremony and witness devotees offering flowers to the shrine – a unique and memorable experience, even though you won’t see the actual tooth, which is kept in a gold-shaped stupa. Take your time exploring the different rooms and the gardens around.

Rituals happen three times a day – at dawn (5:30 am – 7:00 am), morning (9:30 am – 11:00 am), and evening (6:30 pm – 7:30 pm). The temple is also where the annual Kandy Esala Perahera procession starts.

TIP | Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and legs (men and women both), and consider bringing a sarong. You’ll also need to take off your shoes, but there’s a shoe rack where you can leave them for a small donation.

ENTRANCE FEE | 2000 LKR (6 USD)

OPENING TIMES | Open Daily from 5.30 am to 8 pm

2. Explore The Royal Botanical Gardens

Just a short distance from Kandy lies the enchanting Peradeniya Botanic Garden, once exclusively reserved for the royalty of Kandy. Today, it stands as the largest botanic garden in Sri Lanka, open to the public. Exploring this green haven is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Kandy. With over 4,000 plant species, you can easily spend a delightful morning surrounded by diverse flora.

Marvel at the exquisite collection of exotic plants and flowers from around the globe, wander through coconut palm trees, explore the spice garden, traverse a giant bamboo forest, and stroll along a stately avenue of royal palms planted in 1950. Key attractions within the gardens include the Spice Garden, Royal Palm Avenue, Giant Bamboo Forest, Orchid House, and a captivating suspension bridge. Keep an eye out for playful monkeys and bats as you roam the extensive 60-hectare grounds, making sure to plan for 2-3 hours of exploration.

To reach the gardens from central Kandy, you can grab a tuk-tuk for a 30-minute ride, costing around 400 to 600 LKR (2-3$ USD). Another option is taking bus 644 from Kandy’s clock tower, and the bus ticket is just 20 LKR (0.10$ USD). 

ENTRANCE FEE | 2000 LKR ( 6 USD) for foreign tourists (adults)

OPENING TIMES | Open Daily from 7:30 AM to 5 PM

3. Wander Around Kandy Lake & the busy streets

One of the must-do things in Kandy is taking a leisurely stroll around the old town. Delve into the charming alleys and lively markets, immersing yourself in the authentic local atmosphere. The architecture is a blend of old colonial charm and traditional Sri Lankan building facades. Notable attractions within the old town include the Giragama Walawwa, the oldest former royal building in Kandy, the captivating Red Mosque of Kandy, and the vibrant Kataragama Devalaya Hindu temple.

After absorbing the cultural energy of the city, head to Kandy Lake for a relaxed stroll. Nestled in the heart of Kandy, the artificial manmade lake surprises with its peaceful ambiance, contrasting with the bustling road winding around it. The lake serves as a picturesque backdrop to key city attractions such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic and Udawattakele Forest Reserve. In the middle of the lake, a small island with palm trees adds to the charm. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including turtles, pelicans, snakes, water monitors, and various bird species residing around the lake.

4. Visit one of Kandy’s Museums

On a hot day, escaping the heat to one of Kandy’s museums is a great way to spend your time. The World Buddhist Museum is right within the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and it’s included in your temple ticket. This unique museum is set in a former palace of the Kandyan monarch and takes you through the history of Buddhism. It starts from its roots in India to its journey across the globe. The exhibits are organized by countries, showing their role in spreading Buddhism.

For a deeper dive into the history of Kandyan royalty and other aspects of Kandy’s culture, check out the National Museum of Kandy. It has an impressive collection of 4,000 artifacts, mainly from the Kandyan period (1592-1815 AD).

And if you have some extra time and a love for Sri Lankan tea, make sure to visit the Ceylon Tea Museum. It’s in an old tea factory and gives you the lowdown on tea production and the history of tea in Sri Lanka. It’s a cool journey into the world of Ceylon tea.

5. Hike up to the Big Buddha on the hill

Perched atop Bahirawa Kanda Hill is the iconic white Buddha statue, seated in a tranquil Nirvana pose. You can spot the statue from pretty much anywhere in the city.  Climbing up there gives you the most amazing views of Kandy. On a clear day, you can even see the rolling hills surrounding the city. Adjacent to the 27-meter-high statue lies the Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya Temple, welcoming worshipers and tourists alike.

Even though it’s just a 30-minute walk from Kandy’s center, we suggest grabbing a tuk-tuk for a round trip to the temple at 500 LKR (1.5 USD), getting you there in 5-10 minutes.

TIP | Before you start climbing the stairs to the temple, take off your shoes at the bottom as a sign of respect.

ENTRANCE FEE | The entrance fee to the Sri Maha Bodhi Temple is 300 LKR (1 USD).

OPENING TIMES | Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM.

6. Panoramic views from Kandy View Point

Who doesn’t appreciate a stunning viewpoint? For an excellent vantage spot with breathtaking panoramas of Kandy Lake, make your way to Kandy Viewpoint or Arthur’s Seat, nestled in the Kandy hills. From here, catch glimpses of the Big Buddha statue, the old town, and the Temple of the Tooth. As dusk settles in, the sunset over Kandy is a mesmerizing sight, and the city lights start to twinkle.

Whether you opt for the 1 km hike to the viewpoint or choose the quicker alternative of hiring a tuk-tuk, this experience ranks high among the most popular things to do in Kandy.

7. Attend a Kandyan Cultural Dance Show

One standout activity among the must things to do in Kandy is catching a traditional Kandyan cultural dance show. It’s a fantastic way to wrap up your day in Kandy! The performance features skilled dancers in elaborate costumes and headpieces, showcasing cultural traditions through traditional dances. The lyrics and dances often revolve around animals like the peacock, offering a vibrant depiction of local heritage. As a unique highlight, the show includes a captivating fire performance, featuring performers walking over fire—an exclusive spectacle you won’t find anywhere else in the country. It truly embodies the essence of Kandy!

These shows take place at three different venues around Kandy Lake, with ticket prices ranging from 1000-3500 LKR per person. Typically starting around 5 pm and lasting about an hour, it’s advisable to secure your tickets in the morning or arrive early before the show begins:

Kandyan Art Association & Cultural Centre (Show starts at 17:00): Situated on the northern side of the lake, this venue tends to be bustling with tourist buses. Arriving early is recommended as it can fill up quickly.

Kandy Lake Club (Show starts at 17:00): A slightly more upscale option, this venue features pricier tickets. Online reviews mention stunning costumes and a show that incorporates more acrobatics.

Mahanuwara YMBA (Show starts at 17:30): Located southwest of the lake, this lesser-known dance show at the YMBA guesthouse offers an equally impressive performance. The proceeds contribute to the Red Cross, making it a commendable choice. We highly recommend this hidden gem!

8. Ride the scenic train from Kandy To Ella

Once you’ve checked off the top things to do in Kandy, It’s time to venture to two fantastic destinations nearby: Nuwara Eliya and Ella. And what better way to embark on this hill country adventure than the iconic Kandy to Ella train ride? It’s a standout experience in your three-week Sri Lanka itinerary. This scenic journey is known as one of the most picturesque train rides in the world, traversing historic stone bridges, lush green hills, and breathtaking cliff-sides.

As the train winds through tea plantations, you’re treated to stunning views, perfect for capturing those iconic Instagram-worthy shots. You’ve probably seen pictures of people hanging outside the train, and yes, it can be a bit chaotic. Yet, sitting in the open train doors with your feet dangling, feeling the wind in your face – it’s truly an unforgettable experience and ranks high among the best things to do in Kandy.

The Kandy to Ella train ride typically spans around 6-7 hours. Many travelers choose to break up the journey with a few days in Nuwara Eliya, conveniently positioned midway, making each leg approximately 3-4 hours. You can opt to take the train to Kandy from Nuwara Eliya or Ella or vice versa, depending on your route.

TIP | For reserved seats, make sure to book your train ticket online several weeks before your travel date! We recommend going for the second or third class for an immersive experience, hanging out the doors and soaking in the epic views. While first-class offers air conditioning, you won’t get the chance to open the windows or doors. Enjoy the ride!

Fun Things to do around Kandy (extra day tour)

9. Climb the Ambuluwawa Tower

If you find yourself with extra days in Kandy, it’s worth venturing beyond the city limits to explore the Ambuluwawa Tower. A short 30-minute trip from Kandy takes you to the Ambuluwawa complex. The highlight? The panoramic 360-degree view from the tower.

Moreover, the tower’s design exudes a futuristic vibe. It’s important to note that the stairs leading to the top can be quite narrow—definitely not ideal for those with a fear of heights! Plan to spend a minimum of 1-1.5 hours at Ambuluwawa, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings. Take time to explore the beautiful temples within the complex. Additionally, the entrance fee to Ambuluwawa Temple is a reasonable 1000 LKR (3 USD) for foreign adults.

10. Go hiking in the Knuckles Mountain Range

If you’re up for a peaceful day in nature outside Kandy, check out the Knuckles Mountain Range. It’s a beautiful spot with waterfalls, green hills, and lots of wildlife. Just a short thirty-minute drive northeast of Kandy, it’s perfect for a day trip.

Moreover, there are more than 30 hiking trails in the Knuckles Range, but it’s a good idea to join a trekking tour with a local guide. The trails aren’t well-marked, and it’s easy to get lost if you go on your own. On this private tour with round-trip transportation from Kandy, you’ll get to trek through gorgeous jungles, cross wooden bridges, and enjoy stunning panoramic views. Additionally, they’ll throw in a picnic lunch for you to enjoy in the middle of nature. It’s undeniably a great way to spend a day surrounded by the beauty of Knuckles Mountain Range and escape the hustle and bustle of Kandy.

Where to stay in Kandy, Sri Lanka?

Being the cultural hub of Sri Lanka, Kandy boasts a plethora of high-end accommodation options. However, given its status on the main tourist route of Sri Lanka, the city also provides a range of mid-range and budget hotels for those seeking more economical choices.

When it comes to choosing where to stay, we make it a point to thoroughly research our accommodations. We delve into hotel reviews and ensure that the place meets our specific criteria. Comfortable beds are a must, and in a warm country like Sri Lanka, having air-conditioning (or at least a fan) is a preference. Additionally, location matters to us, meaning we look for places within walking distance of the city center and key attractions. And, of course, an amazing breakfast is a non-negotiable.

For our stay in Kandy, E-Stay Hanthana, we opted for something slightly outside the center, nestled in the hills. In this guide, we recommend three accommodations for Kandy, catering to different budgets, and each comes highly praised in reviews. Moreover, if you’re looking for more options, you can explore a variety of accommodations in Kandy using Booking.com.

LUXURY ACCOMMODATION | Villa Rosa

Perched on a hillside, Villa Rosa offers a breathtaking view of the river, creating a serene atmosphere with its infinity pool and garden. The rooms are not only spacious but also incredibly comfortable, and some even provide stunning mountain views. What sets this place apart is the exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, ensuring your stay is nothing short of delightful. Complete with a cozy lounge area, television, library, and all the comforts of home, Villa Rosa provides a touch of luxury away from the bustling center of Kandy.

MID-RANGE ACCOMMODATION | E-Stay Hanthana

When it comes to E-Stay Hanthana, you’ll get to unwind in generously sized and comfortable rooms, each featuring a private balcony. What truly makes this place special is the warm hospitality of the local owners. To enhance your overall delightful experience, make sure to indulge in a delicious breakfast during your stay.

Higher Mid-range option: Kandy Tree Tops

BUDGET ACCOMMODATION | Kandy City Village

With a super friendly owner ready to cater to your every request, Kandy City Village offers cozy rooms, a hearty breakfast, and a central location with a short walk into the hills. It’s fantastic value for money, ensuring a pleasant stay without breaking the bank.

Higher Budget Option: The SkyDeck Kandy

Where to eat in Kandy

As the second largest city in Sri Lanka, Kandy boasts many amazing cafés & restaurants, there are so many options, that you will have no problem finding a nice place for your short stay:

Lunch & Dinner spots: 

Balaji Dosai – Vegetarian gem near the Temple of the Tooth. Must-try: Kara Dosa and Mango Lassi. A clean, inviting interior, prompt service, and a relaxed vibe.

Nagalingam’s Bhavan – For a no-frills Jain vegetarian experience, Nagalingam’s Bhavan serves homemade Indian curries. Opt for the thali, which includes mouthwatering curries, dal, fresh samosas, kotti, and a small dessert.

CAFE 1886 by Salgado Bakers – Cozy eatery in Kandy with a diverse menu. Highly recommended: Kothu. Friendly staff, relaxing ambiance, and a central location.

Worldspice – Located inside the Kandy City Center shopping mall, Worldspice is a food court with various counters serving global cuisines. From Sri Lankan and Italian to Thai, Chinese, and Indian, it offers a range of choices. We had a wonderful Indian curry here while seeking shelter from the rain.

Breakfast & Lunch Cafés:

Soul Food – A vegan restaurant with a touch of Westernized options, Soul Food offers healthy bowls, burgers, wraps, and pasta, all freshly made on the spot. With a good variety of dishes and a great atmosphere, it’s an excellent choice for breakfast or lunch.

Cafe Banana Chill – For a healthy start to your day, visit this cozy hipster place for local fruit smoothies, chia pudding, avocado toast, and other fresh and healthy vegan options.

Cafe Secret Alley — A colorful hipster café tucked away in an alley, Cafe Secret Alley serves awesome smoothie bowls. Don’t forget to check out the fun balcony with beanbags for a relaxing chill-out.

The Bakehouse Kandy – If you’re into pastries, don’t hesitate to drop by The Bakehouse. It’s an excellent venue to satisfy your inner sweet tooth. We took some pastries to go from their shop downstairs.

Buono – A beautiful coffee shop for a good cup of coffee, Buono is also an ideal place for breakfast, serving waffles and smoothie bowls.

How to get to Kandy?

How to get to Kandy from Nuwara Eliya / Ella

Embark on the famous train journey from Ella or Nuwara Eliya to experience one of the world’s most beautiful rides, offering stunning views of tea plantations. The 7-hour journey through Sri Lanka’s scenic landscapes is a breathtaking experience. During peak season (December to March), especially for reserved seated tickets, booking in advance is recommended. Secure your spot through 12go, and consider a 2nd class reserved ticket for better comfort and more openable windows, perfect for Instagram-worthy pictures.

How to get to Kandy from Sigiriya / Dambulla

To travel from Sigiriya to Kandy, take a bus or tuk-tuk to reach Dambulla bus station. From there, catch either bus line 42 or 43 (Vavuniya-Kandy route), with buses departing every half an hour. Bus 42, at around 180 rupees, offers an economical option without air conditioning. For a more comfortable, air-conditioned ride, opt for bus 43 at 450 rupees, completing the journey in slightly over 2 hours.

How to get to Kandy from Colombo

If you wish to kickstart your backpacking adventure from Colombo to Kandy, the journey takes around 2-3 hours (traffic dependent). Here are your options:

Car: Consider using the PickMe App for the journey, which costs approximately 10,000 LKR (~$35).

Train: Opt for the train, the most affordable option, offering comfort and taking a similar time as a car or bus ride. Train rides usually cost between 4-8 dollars, depending on the class. Use 12Go Asia for online bookings.

Bus: Catch a bus from Colombo to Kandy, costing around $8 per person. Alternatively, choose shared minivans for a slightly pricier yet more comfortable option, ranging between $12-$14.

We hope this Kandy guide helps you when planning for your exciting upcoming trip. You can show some ❤ and support for the blog and help us share more adventures! Our travels are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows us to keep writing helpful travel guides and gather information to make it easier for people to discover the world.