Things To Do
in Kandy
Kandy, located in central Sri Lanka, is a charming city known for its rich history and cultural treasures. The city is home to the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The lush landscapes surrounding Kandy, including the scenic Kandy Lake and the tranquil Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.
Kandy also hosts the traditional Esala Perahera festival, a vibrant and colorful procession that attracts visitors from around the world.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Suba dawasak" - Good day
- "Aparada" - Sorry
- "Hondai" - Good
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, where you can witness the sacred tooth of Buddha. Spend time wandering around the beautiful Kandy Lake, enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Explore the Kandy National Museum to learn about the rich history of the area. Later, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya to see an impressive collection of flora.
Stroll through Kandy's local markets in the evening, soaking in the vibrant culture. Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dinner at a local restaurant.
Take a morning hike to the hills surrounding Kandy for panoramic views of the city. Breathe in the fresh air while traversing through lush tea plantations.
Visit the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue for a stunning view over Kandy. Spend some time relaxing at a local café enjoying traditional Sri Lankan sweets.
Witness a cultural show at the Kandy Lake Club, showcasing traditional Kandyan dance and music. Wind down with a leisurely walk around Kandy Lake.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including the famous Temple of the Tooth.
- Beautiful scenic landscapes, including the surrounding hills and lakes.
- Mild climate, making it a pleasant place to visit year-round.
- Vibrant local markets and delicious traditional cuisine.
- Strong historical significance with numerous colonial buildings and gardens.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.
- Higher prices for accommodation and services in tourist areas.
- Potential for heavy rainfall during monsoon seasons.
- Crowded tourist spots can detract from the experience.
Best Activities in Kandy
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush greenery and various hiking trails in the Hanthana Mountain Range with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Experience the beauty of nature at the Royal Botanical Gardens, which features a stunning collection of orchids, giant bamboo, a spice garden, and more.
Explore the ancient architecture and intricate wood carvings of the Embekka Devalaya and Gadaladeniya Temple, located amidst scenic surroundings.
Embark on an exciting white water rafting adventure in the nearby town of Kitulgala, where you can navigate the Kelani River's thrilling rapids.
Take a peaceful nature walk through the Udawattekele Forest Reserve and enjoy the serene atmosphere while spotting various bird species and wildlife.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kandy with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kandy
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Kandy and the surrounding hills
Scenic location with a giant Buddha statue and a great view of Kandy
Scenic lake with surrounding walkway and beautiful views, especially at sunset
Food in Kandy
Kandy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish featuring a variety of curries, sambols, and rice, often served with accompaniments like papadam and chutney. Notable for its fiery and robust flavors.
Must-Try!
A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, typically enjoyed with egg, honey, or spicy sambal. Visit The Empire Cafe for outstanding hoppers.
A popular street food dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, eggs, and a choice of meat or seafood, all stir-fried with aromatic spices on a hot griddle. Available at Kandyan Muslim Hotel.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kandy better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An bustling market where you can find an array of local produce, spices, and street food. Delight in treats like isso wade (spicy lentil cakes with prawns) and vadai (savory fritters).
A renowned spot for delectable street food such as samosas, falooda, and masala tea. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting temples and other religious sites in Kandy, it is important to show respect for Buddhist customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly, removing shoes before entering the temple, and refraining from any behavior that may be considered disrespectful.
In Kandy, it is customary to greet others with respect, using formal language and gestures of politeness. Addressing people using their proper titles and showing deference to elders is important in demonstrating cultural sensitivity.
It is advisable to observe and respect local traditions and customs while in Kandy. This includes participating in cultural events and festivals with humility and an open mindset, and being mindful of the impact of one's actions on the local community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kandy with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kandy
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kandy, Sri Lanka, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a 10% tip at restaurants and for other services like tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
In Kandy, Sri Lanka, cash is the primary mode of payment, especially in smaller establishments and markets. Credit cards are widely accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and stores. It's always good to carry some cash for transactions in Kandy.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kandy.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and sunny weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Intermittent showers and a lush, green landscape. Ideal for experiencing the local festivals and cultural events.
Wet season with heavy rains. However, this is also the time when the famous Esala Perahera festival takes place, offering a unique cultural experience.
Kandy at Night
Hiking in Kandy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Knuckles offers stunning scenery and a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, with opportunities to see diverse wildlife and unique plant species.
This scenic hike starts near Kandy and takes you through lush tea estates and rural villages, providing a glimpse into local life and beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.
Located just a short distance from Kandy, Hanthana consists of several peaks with different trails, offering breathtaking views of Kandy and its surroundings. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
A moderately challenging hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall. The path passes through tropical forests, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to explore nature.
A well-known hiking area near Kandy with various trails that provide panoramic views. It features trails suitable for all fitness levels and opportunities for bird watching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kandy through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kandy by plane.
The main international airport in Sri Lanka, located in Katunayake, approximately 103 km from Kandy.
Located in Hambantota, this airport is about 235 km from Kandy and serves as a secondary international airport.
This airport is located in Jaffna, roughly 276 km from Kandy and serves domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Kandy, forming the majority of the population and primarily speaking Sinhala.
This group includes both Tamil speakers and Sri Lankan Tamils, contributing to the cultural diversity of Kandy.
A significant Muslim community in Kandy, often referred to as Moors, involved in commerce and trade.
A small community of mixed European descent, primarily Portuguese and Dutch ancestry, with a unique cultural identity.
A minority group in Kandy, with roots tracing back to the Malay Peninsula and Indonesia, contributing to the multi-ethnic fabric.
An indigenous group of Sri Lanka, though their population is very small in Kandy compared to other groups.
The Soul of Kandy
Discover the essence of Kandy through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The city has a rich history in the sport and is home to several cricket clubs and schools that promote cricket among youngsters.
Rugby is also highly popular in Kandy, with several clubs and schools participating in local and national competitions. The sport has a strong following, especially among the youth.
Football enjoys popularity in Kandy, attracting many fans and players. Local tournaments and school competitions are common, fostering a vibrant football culture.
Badminton is a popular indoor sport in Kandy, with many players participating in local tournaments and recreational play at various clubs and schools.
Athletics, including track and field events, is encouraged in schools and sporting events in Kandy, contributing to a healthy sporting environment.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kandy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Sri Lankan cuisine traditionally includes a plethora of vegetarian and vegan dishes, it is advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly at local eateries. Places like Balaji Dosai and Theva Cuisine are excellent choices for vegetarians and vegans.
Gluten-free options may be available at select restaurants, but it's recommended to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods. Theva Cuisine is known for its accommodating approach to dietary restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kandy with these cultural adventures.
