13x Best Things to Do in Kandy: A Guide to Sri Lanka’s Culture Capital
Searching for the best things to do in Kandy? This comprehensive guide details all the highlights + hidden gems of Sri Lanka’s cultural capital.
As the cultural capital of the country, Kandy is a must-visit addition to any Sri Lankan itinerary. Kandy’s picturesque setting among jungle-swathed mountains is what protected it for centuries.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Kandy has something for everyone. With this guide, you’re all set to uncover the best that Sri Lanka’s cultural capital has to offer.
Why Visit Kandy ↴
Kandy’s setting among jungle-swathed mountains is a significant part of its charm. As Sri Lanka’s cultural heart, Kandy is steeped in history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Surrounded by tea plantations and with a lake at its center, Kandy is home to sacred Buddhist sites, busy markets, botanical gardens. Its Kandyan art and traditions set against a backdrop of remnant colonial architecture makes the city a perfect blend of old and new.
Protected by its rugged terrain for centuries, it’s a city where ancient relics meet modern vitality.
When to visit Kandy, Sri Lanka ↴
Kandy’s location in the central highland region of Sri Lanka makes it slightly cooler and wetter than the rest of the country. For the driest weather in Kandy, I recommend visiting between January and April. Temperatures will be higher, but you’ll avoid both of Kandy’s monsoon seasons (October to December and May to July). Alternatively, August and September are good months to visit Kandy. I have previously visited Kandy in March, May, and September, and each time, it was hot and humid but perfectly bearable with little rain.
I would avoid April, which coincides with the Sinhalese New Year, resulting in gridlock traffic throughout the city and country. I narrowly avoided this on my inaugural visit, and I recommend planning your travels with this in mind.
Where is Kandy + How to get to Kandy ↴
Kandy sits roughly 3 hours northeast of Colombo in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It’s one of Sri Lanka’s major cities, making it well-connected to the rest of the country and a central hub for many travelers.
train
Kandy’s train station is the arrival and departure point for the majority of people visiting Kandy. If you’re looking to take the train between Kandy and Ella, train tickets need to be brought in advance as tickets sell out extremely quickly on this route. For on the day tickets to other destinations (or even the Kandy to Ella line if you get very lucky), there are seperate ticket windows at the station for first, second and third class tickets. The long line full of locals that often stretches out of the station is for third class tickets. If you’d prefer to book tickets in advance, you can do this via tour operators or online via 12Go.
Reserved seating tickets to the Kandy to Ella line are typically made available 30 days in advance and will sell out very quickly, so do plan ahead! You can buy second and third class tickets on the day, but as we found out, this will mean you are stood up and wedged in a crowd for 6 hours… even so, the train line is beautiful and we loved our experience!
For those not wanting to brave the chaos, there are lots of tour operators within Kandy, as well as online operators such as 12Go that can help arrange tickets for tourist buses and mini vans, or taxis in advance.
bus
Hectic, confusing, and overwhelming— Kandy’s bus stations aren’t for the faint of heart (or the easily overstimulated). Bus schedules and routes can change, so it's best to confirm details before your trip. Buses are labelled with their final destinations, and the locals are usually more than happy to point you in the right direction.
However, buses are the most budget-friendly way to get to Kandy. Some of the most popular bus routes to Kandy include:
Dambulla to Kandy (2-4 hours)| Taking the bus from Dambulla to Kandy is relatively quick and economic, making it a favorite for those planning their Sri Lanka itinerary.
Colombo to Kandy (3.5 hours) | Since Colombo is the most popular arrival point for travelers, buses from Colombo to Kandy are often full.
Jaffna to Kandy (8-12.5 hours)| This is an affordable option for budget travelers, but it is a long and arduous journey across the island. I wouldn’t recommend taking this route, but it is an available option for you.
taxi/private driver
Hiring a driver or booking a private car is the fastest and most convenient option, especially for groups or those with luggage. It’s also the most expensive transport option available. We trust our
How to get around Kandy ↴
Kandy’s city center is compact and walkable, making walking the best way to explore major attractions like Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. However, many of its temples and attractions are located outside of comfortable walking distance. For those excursions, tuk-tuks are affordable and almost always readily available. Public buses are a cheap way to travel, but they can be crowded and hard to navigate if you don’t speak Sinhala.
Where to stay in Kandy ↴
While Kandy is easy to get around, traffic can make tuk-tuk rides longer than desired. The city boasts a variety of accommodation, from budget-friendly guesthouses to boutique hotels. Here are some top recommendations:
Helga’s Folly | A truly quirky stay enveloped in lore, with whimsical décor and a history as colorful as its walls.
Senani Kandy | The Senani is where Luke and I stayed during our second trip to Kandy. The rooftop pool and stunning views of the city make it a standout choice.
Kandy City View | This is where we stayed on our first visit to Kandy. It’s affordable, centrally located, and ideal for travelers on a budget.
We love using Booking.com to book the best places to stay around the world.
Best things to do in Kandy ↴
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is the city’s most sacred and iconic attraction. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its cultural significance. The temple, built in 1595, houses a tooth of the Buddha himself, making it one of the most sacred places for Buddhists worldwide.
Because this is a sacred space, you must remove your shoes before entering. You’ll also be expected to have your knees and shoulders covered. Sarongs are available to rent at the front gates. Daily worship occurs three times—dawn, noon, and evening—with a special Wednesday ritual involving a fragrant herbal bathing of the relic, believed to have healing powers.
ADMISSION | Foreign visitors LKR 1,500 (~USD $8) | SAARC country visitors LKR 1,000
Shop for Souvenirs at Kandy Market
The bustling market is a great spot to buy local spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.
Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake, in the heart of the city, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The tranquil surroundings provide a peaceful escape from the hustle of the city.
Peradeniya (Royal Botanic Gardens)
Just a short drive west from Kandy, the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya boast over 4,000 species of plants, including an impressive orchid house. The gardens span a whopping 147 acres above the Mahaweli River. You could easily spend an entire day strolling the palm-lined avenues, picnicking on the manicured lawns. I recommend pairing this with the Three Temple Loop circuit for the most efficient Kandy itinerary. The gardens are open everyday from 7:30 AM until 6 PM.
ADMISSION | Foreign adult LKR 3,540 | Foreign child LKR1,770 | Foreign student (with ID) LKR 2,360
Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Vihara
Kandy is renowned for its art, specifically its signature frescoes, and this 18th-century cave temple is covered with them. Visiting is quite straightforward, but it’s one of those places that’s easiest to reach if you plan ahead, since it’s 15 minutes outside the city and not on most standard itineraries. The most convenient option is to take a tuk-tuk from Kandy Lake or the Temple of the Tooth. It usually costs LKR 1,000–1,500, depending on waiting time. Ask the driver to wait for you—public transport back into the city can be inconsistent.
ADMISSION | There’s no official ticket price for visiting, but cash donations are expected.
Cultural Dance Show
In Kandy, dance shows offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. It’s a centuries-old tradition once reserved for Kandyan royal courts. Performances use traditional costume and drumming to represent the deities and demons from Sri Lankan folklore. Each dance segment tells a story while incorporating spinning fire, drums, and flutes.
We’ve attended two different performances across our visits, and both were similar in terms of quality and price. *Asterisks indicate the shows we’ve attended.
*Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show | The Lake Club has been putting on cultural shows since 1982, and is one of the most popular venues in Kandy. Shows are performed daily at 5 PM.
Kandyan Art Association + Cultural Center | Shows are performed daily at 5 PM.
*Red Cross Society Hall & YMBA | Shows are performed daily at 5 PM and a portion of the proceeds support the local Red Cross.
Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya
Sitting with a panoramic view of Kandy’s jungle-swatched hills is Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya, a massive Buddha statue. Towering nearly 88 feet tall, Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya is one of the country’s best-known statues and is most popular at sunset (when I recommend going).
To get here, you will need to take a tuk-tuk 2 kilometers (just over a mile) from the city center. It’s also up a steep hill, so I do not recommend walking up, especially in the middle of the day when the Sri Lankan heat is at its peak.
Three Temple Loop
The Three Temple Loop is a popular half-day trip from Kandy that links three14th-century temples within a short drive of each other. To make the most of the loop, I recommend starting the day at 8:30 AM at the latest to avoid the midday heat and tour buses. Most visitors complete the circuit by early afternoon, allowing time for lunch at a local café or back in Kandy, followed by an afternoon at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Hiring a tuk-tuk driver for the morning costs around LKR 3,000–4,000, and many drivers are happy to share local insights along the way.
The most efficient route starts with Gadaladeniya Viharaya, about 13 kilometers west of Kandy, which is the farthest of the three. Built largely of stone, this temple is known for its golden Buddha statues, ancient banyan tree, and ponds carved directly into the rock face.
From there, head to Lankathilaka Vihara, four kilometers away. If you’re pressed for time, visiting Lankathilaka Vihara on its own is well-worth the tuk-tuk ride. Perched on a rocky outcrop, surrounded by rice paddies and jungle, the temple features a seated Buddha statue.
The final stop is Embekke Devalaya, a compact but intricately detailed temple dedicated to the Hindu god Mahasen. It is celebrated for its carved wooden pillars depicting dancers, drummers, animals, and mythical figures, spread across three main sections: the Sanctum of Garagha, the Dancing Hall, and the Drummers’ Hall.
ADMISSION | LKR 300 per person for each temple
catch a cricket game at Pallekelle Stadium
Cricket is Sri Lanka’s national pastime; its most beloved sport bar none. So, why not catch a game while you’re in Kandy? Kandy’s stadium, Pallekelle Stadium, sits roughly 30 minutes outside of the city in a lush location that houses 35,000 avid fans. It’s a relatively new sports ground, having only been built in 2009.
There are two ways to buy tickets to a cricket game at Pallekelle Stadium: online or at the stadium. For less in-demand matches, you can typically purchase tickets at the Pallekele stadium ticket counters. However, for special events like India vs Pakistan in the Asia Cup, it’s best to purchase tickets in online advance (they will sell out). You can buy tickets online here.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Kandy ↴
Once you’ve ticked off the main attractions and want to see a side of Kandy most first-time visitors miss, these lesser-known gems will get you off the beaten path.
Udawattakele Forest Reserve | This lush forest reserve was once the royal family’s pleasure garden. Today, it’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with easy walking trails and city viewpoints.
Hantana Tea Museum | Hantana is a museum housed in a colonial-era tea factory. Visiting offers fascinating insights into Sri Lanka’s tea history, complete with a tasting overlooking the plantations.
Local Market at Good Shed Bus Station | A produce market where you can shop for tropical fruits, spices, and local snacks. Equal parts hectic and exhilarating.
Alagalla Mountain Hike | A trek with sweeping views over tea country. I recommend hiking this at sunrise or sunset for dramatic scenery.
Best Places to Eat in Kandy ↴
While Kandy is steeped in tradition, its dining scene is evolving—blending authentic Sri Lankan flavors with modern twists. I am firmly of the opinion that there is no bad food in Sri Lanka. However, there are places throughout the country where the food is superior to others, and, in Kandy, the food scene has always fallen a bit flat for me. Street food doesn’t quite hit the same, and many of the city’s most highly-rated restaurants are void of the real flavors Sri Lankan food is known for, housed inside hotels.
These restaurants showcase the best of the city’s culinary offerings
Balaji Dosa | A no-frills, budget-friendly vegetarian restaurant serving some of the city’s best dosas, coconut chutney, and masala chai. The masala dosa here will not disappoint, especially if you decide to accompany it with a cup of masala chai.
Slightly Chilled Lounge | A rooftop spot with panoramic sunset views and a menu mixing Sri Lankan and Chinese dishes. The hot butter cuttlefish and fresh juices are standouts.
Café Secret Alley | A hidden gem near Kandy Lake! A narrow alleyway gives way to a set of stairs leading up to a café with excellent coffee, smoothie bowls, and baked goods—perfect for a mid-morning break.
Helga’s Folly | An eccentric and artistic restaurant-hotel serving Sri Lankan-European fusion dishes.
Devon Restaurant | A local institution for “short eats,” hoppers, rice and curry, and strong Ceylon tea.
Mandiya | Located just outside the city center, Mandiya will curb your craving for an authentic Sri Lankan curry.
BUONO | Beautiful, barista-style coffee done to perfection inside an ultra-chic, concrete space. You’ll also find fantastic Antipodean brunch options (think avocado toast and acai bowls).
Coffee Dose Kandy | Coffee, tacos, smoothie bowls — name a better trio, I’ll wait.
Sri Lanka travel FAQs ↴
Is Sri Lanka safe
I’ve never encountered any safety issues traveling in Sri Lanka. It’s typically considered a safe travel destination, however, I always advise travelers to take reasonable precautions everywhere they go. For instance, whether you’re in London or Colombo, it’s smart to stay aware of road traffic, political developments, and theft.
Petty theft can occur in crowded areas, though it’s relatively rare outside of the capital, Colombo. I recommend keeping your valuables secure.
Tuk tuk scams are the most common travelers encounter in Sri Lanka— specifically getting overcharged. To avoid aggressive drivers, agree on a fare before getting into a tuk tuk and starting your ride.
currency + cash
While you may need cash, contactless card payments are widely accepted. I recommend always carrying some cash for tour guide tips and tuk-tuk rides.
road safety
It’s increasing popular for tourists to rent tuk-tuks and drive themselves around the island. I don’t recommend this on two counts: 1) you’re effectively taking a job away from an experienced local, and 2) you likely aren’t used to the hectic traffic and road conditions. Remember that driving a car is castly different than driving a scooter. Windy roads in and out of Sri Lanka’s stunning valleys may be picturesque, but they also come with hairpin turns and sharing the road with local buses.
Map ↴
Find all the best things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka on the map below.