Kandy Sri Lanka Travel Guide: Sacred Sites, Tea Hills & Cultural Charm

Welcome to Kandy, a city nestled in the lush hill country of Sri Lanka, renowned for its rich traditions, sacred sites, and natural beauty. This former royal capital is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also the spiritual and cultural center of the island.
 

From the revered Temple of the Tooth to the serene Kandy Lake and the colorful energy of local dance performances, Kandy offers a perfect mix of history, spirituality, and scenery.

Let’s take a journey through the best that Kandy has to offer—guided by a local’s perspective and curated with your perfect itinerary in mind.

📍 Where is Kandy?

Location: Central Province, Sri Lanka

Altitude: Approx. 500 meters above sea level

Distance from Colombo: ~115 km (about 3–4 hours by train or car)

Known For: Sacred Buddhist relics, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Kandy

Temperatures remain mild year-round: 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F).

🏛️ Top Attractions and Things to Do in Kandy

1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

This is Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist temple, said to house a tooth of the Buddha.

Explore the intricately carved interiors and spiritual ambiance

Visit during the morning or evening puja (ritual) to witness ceremonial offerings

Shoes must be removed before entering; modest dress is required

🕒 Open daily | 🎟️ Entry: LKR 2,000 (approx. $6)

2. Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake)

A peaceful artificial lake built in 1807 by the last Kandyan king.

Ideal for morning or sunset walks

Look for monitor lizards, birds, and scenic views of the temple

Romantic boat rides are also available

3. Royal Botanical Gardens – Peradeniya

Located just outside Kandy, these gardens are among the finest in Asia.

Over 4,000 plant species, including orchids, palms, and spice trees

Don’t miss the giant Java fig tree and orchid house

A picnic-friendly environment with plenty of photo opportunities

🕒 Open daily | 🎟️ Entry: LKR 2,000 (approx. $6)

4. Kandyan Cultural Dance Show

Experience traditional Kandyan drumming, dancing, and fire-walking in a live performance.

Held in the evening at local theaters such as Kandyan Art Association

Performers wear vibrant costumes and masks

Great for families and cultural enthusiasts

🎟️ Entry: LKR 1,000–1,500 (approx. $3–$5)

5. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

A giant white Buddha overlooking the city from a nearby hill.

Offers panoramic views of Kandy from the base of the statue

Accessible by tuk-tuk or short hike

6. Udawattekele Sanctuary

A tranquil forest reserve located behind the Temple of the Tooth.

Ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers

Look out for monkeys, wild boars, and rare flora

Historic meditation caves used by monks

🎟️ Entry: LKR 650 (approx. $2)

7. Tea Museum of Ceylon

Located in a restored tea factory in Hantana, just a short drive from the city.

Learn about the history of Ceylon tea

Enjoy tea tasting with stunning hill country views

Great souvenir shop for quality tea leaves

8. Explore Local Markets

Kandy City Centre: Modern mall with shopping and dining

Central Market: Authentic local experience with fruits, spices, and handicrafts

Gem Shops: Sri Lanka is known for sapphires and moonstones

🍽️ Best Places to Eat in Kandy

Local Cuisine:

Slightly Chilled Lounge – Great lake view and Sri Lankan-Western fusion

Balaji Dosai – Best South Indian vegetarian food in town

Devon Restaurant – Classic rice & curry meals and baked goods

International Options:

Cafe Secret Alley – Instagrammable café with smoothies and salads

The Empire Café – Tasty food in a colonial building next to the temple

Kandyan King Seafood – Fresh seafood in a local-style setting

🛏️ Where to Stay in Kandy

Luxury:

Earl’s Regency Hotel – Grand hilltop property with pool and spa

The Kandy House – Colonial boutique hotel with heritage charm

Cinnamon Citadel – Riverside resort with scenic vibes

Mid-range:

Villa Rosa – Quiet and romantic with river views

Hotel Suisse – Old-world ambiance near the lake

Nature Walk Resort – Budget-friendly and close to attractions

Budget:

Clock Inn Kandy – Backpacker hostel with AC rooms and dorms

Jungle Tide – Eco-lodge run by expats, outside the city

Blinkbonnie Tourist Inn – Affordable rooms with views

🚆 How to Get to Kandy

From Colombo:

🚆 By Train: Scenic 2nd or 1st-class ride through the hills (3–4 hours)

🚌 By Bus: Regular buses from Pettah Bus Station

🚗 By Car: Private taxi or ride-share (approx. 3.5 hours)

From Ella or Nuwara Eliya:

🚆 By Train: One of the world’s most scenic train routes

🚌 By Bus: Available but slower due to winding roads

📅 2-Day Itinerary for Kandy

Day 1:

Morning: Arrive and check in

Afternoon: Temple of the Tooth & Kandy Lake walk

Evening: Kandyan dance show + dinner

Day 2:

Morning: Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

Afternoon: Tea Museum + Bahirawakanda Buddha

Evening: Market shopping or lakeside cafe

📸 Top Instagram & Photo Spots

Temple of the Tooth courtyard

Kandy Lake at sunrise or sunset

Kandyan dancers mid-performance

Bahirawakanda Buddha view

Royal Botanical Gardens orchid house

🛍️ What to Buy in Kandy

Ceylon tea and spices

Handcrafted masks and batiks

Local gemstones (from certified sellers)

Wood carvings and traditional jewelry

🙏 Cultural Etiquette in Kandy

Dress modestly when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered)

Remove shoes and hats before entering religious sites

Avoid public displays of affection near sacred areas

Be mindful of taking photos of monks and rituals

🧘 Wellness in Kandy

Ayurvedic treatments available at many spas and hotels

Yoga sessions with hill views

Herbal shops offering oils, incense, and natural remedies

🎯 Why Visit Kandy?

Kandy is the heartbeat of Sri Lanka’s cultural and spiritual identity. Whether you're drawn to ancient temples, lush gardens, colonial architecture, or the soulful rhythms of traditional drumming, this city offers an authentic experience steeped in history and beauty.

As a base for exploring Sri Lanka’s central highlands and a destination in its own right, Kandy is a must-visit on any journey through the island.