Kandy is the cultural and spiritual heart of Sri Lanka, surrounded by lush green hills and centred around the beautiful Kandy Lake. Once the capital of the ancient Kandyan Kingdom, the city preserves a remarkable heritage of Buddhist traditions, royal history, music, dance and architecture.
The highlight of any Kandy tour is the sacred Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Sri Lanka's most revered Buddhist sites. Visitors can also explore the former royal precinct, colourful cultural performances, peaceful gardens and the scenic landscapes surrounding the city.
Kandy is an excellent destination for travellers seeking a combination of culture, history, spirituality and nature.
Top Attractions in Kandy:
1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Kandy's most important attraction and one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. The temple complex houses the relic traditionally believed to be a tooth of the Buddha.
2. Kandy Lake
A peaceful artificial lake located beside the Temple of the Tooth. Its surrounding promenade provides a pleasant setting for an evening walk and photography.
3. Royal Botanic Gardens – Peradeniya
Located near Kandy, these expansive gardens are known for their tropical plants, orchids, palms and beautifully landscaped grounds.
4. Kandy Cultural Experience
Traditional Kandyan dance, drumming and cultural performances offer visitors an introduction to the island's performing arts and heritage.
5. Bahirawakanda Temple
Located on a hill overlooking Kandy, the temple is known for its large Buddha statue and impressive city views.
6. Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
A forest reserve close to the city centre, offering walking trails and an opportunity to experience Kandy's natural environment.
How to Reach Kandy
From Colombo
Kandy is approximately 115 km from Colombo and can be reached by road or train.
From Bandaranaike International Airport
The journey from the airport area to Kandy generally takes around 3–4 hours by road, depending on traffic.
From Sigiriya
Kandy can be reached from Sigiriya by road in approximately 2.5–3.5 hours, making the two destinations easy to combine.
By Train
The railway journey between Colombo and Kandy is a popular option, offering views of Sri Lanka's changing landscapes.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
Kandy can be visited throughout much of the year. January to April is generally a favourable period for sightseeing, while conditions can vary because of the region's tropical and mountainous climate.
For outdoor sightseeing, morning and late afternoon are usually more comfortable than the middle of the day.
🌡️ Weather
Kandy has a tropical highland climate.
- Daytime: Warm and pleasant
- Evenings: Cooler than Sri Lanka's coastal areas
- Rain: Possible throughout the year
- Hill-country weather: Can change quickly
Carry light clothing, comfortable walking shoes and a light rain jacket.
💼 Suggested Tour Package
Kandy Cultural Escape – 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Accommodation: 3/4-star hotel
- Meals: Daily breakfast
- Transport: Private vehicle
- Ideal for: Couples, families, culture lovers and first-time visitors
Package Includes
- 2 nights hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Private transfers
- Sightseeing as per itinerary
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Local sightseeing
- Airport/railway station assistance
Package Excludes:
- International airfare
- Visa/ETA charges, where applicable
- Monument and attraction entrance fees
- Lunch and dinner unless specified
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities
- Tips and gratuities
- 🌟 Best Combinations
Kandy works particularly well as part of a larger Sri Lanka circuit:
