Kandy, located in the heart of Sri Lanka, is a captivating city that combines natural beauty, rich culture, and spiritual significance. Often referred to as the cultural capital of the country, Kandy attracts millions of visitors every year. Whether you’re looking for Kandy tourist spots, cultural sites, or natural wonders, this city offers a diverse range of Kandy Sri Lanka attractions.
We’ll guide you through the best places to visit in Kandy, the most significant temples and sites, as well as tips for making the most of your visit. From the serene Kandy lakes to the magnificent Kandy temples, there’s something for every traveler.
Because Kandy was the last capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom, before the British came to rule in 1815, there is plenty of history and tradition remaining in this loyal city.
Kandy is home to some of the nicest boutique hotels nestled among the scenic hills and these are a great way to base yourself for a relaxing holiday while enjoying the culture and tradition of the popular Kandy tourist attractions.
Find out more about the Temple of the Tooth also know as Dalada Maligawa.
Kandy is home to some of the most iconic tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or an adventure seeker, Kandy has something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the top Kandy attractions.
Kandy is known for its temples in Kandy that represent the city’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage. The most famous is the Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses a tooth of the Buddha and attracts pilgrims from around the world.
Another Kandy temple worth visiting is the Lankatilaka Temple, a stunning example of Sri Lankan architecture. The Gadaladeniya Temple and Embekka Devalaya are also culturally significant, offering travelers a chance to delve deeper into the history and spirituality of Kandy.
Located in the heart of the city, the Kandy Lake is a man-made lake created by the last King of the Sinhalese Kingdom, in the year 1807. Also known as Kiri Muhuda or Sea of Milk, the Lake is protected against fisherman and is used for leisure activities such as boat riding. A stroll around the lake is an ideal evening activity which will also show you around the hustle bustle of the city of Kandy that has developed around the Lake. The best part to walk around is the area where the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is located.
Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe was the King who built this lake by excavating paddy fields in an effort to beautify the Temple of the Tooth. Bordering most of the lake you will see a decorative clouds wall which was also built by the King but was left incomplete because the British force invaded and imprisoned the King. The triangular holes that you see in the wall were used to light oil lamps at night during those days.
Kandy is not just about temples; it’s also home to stunning natural beauty. The Kandy Lake, located right in the city center, offers visitors a tranquil escape and is perfect for a relaxing boat ride. You can also explore the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, which is a must-see for nature lovers. This garden is known for its vast collection of tropical plants, including orchids and spices.
For those looking to enjoy a more adventurous experience, the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, a forest reserve, offers a peaceful retreat with trekking opportunities and wildlife sightings.
This festival is a grand celebration which includes elegant costumes, traditional dances, jugglers, fire breathers and elephants dressed in exclusive clothing. The significance of this historic procession is to pay respect to the Sacred Tooth Relic that the city holds. If you are visiting Sri Lanka around July/August, be sure to schedule your stay in Kandy on nights when this procession is taking place.
The Esala Procession begins with the sanctifying of a young jackfruit tree and signifies blessings showered on the Kings and the people. Believed to be a mix of two separate, yet interconnected processions, the Esala Perahera initially began as a prayer to God to request rainfall.
After ten nights of continuous dance and music in traditional forms, the festival ends with a water cutting ceremony at the bank of the Mahaweli River. Monks of the Buddhist Clergy in Sri Lanka are responsible for the organizing of the event. Being one of the oldest and grandest Buddhist festival in the country, it is definitely a must see event.
The Royal Palace of Kandy, located near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, is an important historical site. Today, it houses a museum showcasing the royal history of Sri Lanka and the former Kandyan Kingdom. A visit to this palace allows travelers to learn about Kandy’s regal past while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
The Knuckles Range is a mountain range, one of the loveliest Kandy tourist attractions, and can be accessed easily from Kandy. This range is as massive as 18512 hectares and is a trekker’s paradise because it consists of panoramic grasslands, rugged mountain peaks, calm rivers, and cascading waterfalls.
The name given to the mountain range is because of its shape: a series of recumbent folds that look like knuckles of a clenched fist when seen from several angles. Early british evaluators gave the mountains this name but the Sinhalese often refer to them as Dumbara Kanduvetiya – translated as mist-laden mountain range. Almost always enveloped in thick layers of cloud, the Knuckles Range is also known for its unique variety of flora and fauna that cannot be found anywhere else.
As promised, we have given you details of how much culture, tradition and adventure is in store for you in the city of Kandy. At Sri Lanka Holiday Ideas, our team of friendly consultants will help you create a suitable itinerary based on your travel plans and include at least a one night stay in Kandy and fit in as many Kandy tourist attractions in the time you have, along with the other best places to visit in Sri Lanka. Simply send us an inquiry and we will get back to you promptly with a plan for your tailor-made holiday in Sri Lanka,
If you’re wondering what to do in Kandy city, there’s an abundance of exciting activities to keep you entertained.
One of the best ways to discover Kandy city is by walking through its streets, which are filled with hidden gems and bustling local markets. The Kandy city center is vibrant, offering a mix of local shops, street food, and historic buildings.
A great way to explore Kandy is by joining one of the many guided Kandy tours available. These tours typically cover all the major sites, including the Temple of the Tooth, the Royal Palace, and the scenic Kandy Lake. You can also opt for a day tour to explore nearby attractions like the Peradeniya Gardens and Bahirawakanda Temple, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Kandy has a tropical climate, which means the best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During these months, you can enjoy pleasant weather and clear skies, perfect for sightseeing and exploring Kandy’s cultural sites.
Here’s a quick travel guide to help you plan your trip to Kandy.
Getting around Kandy is fairly easy. You can use local transport like tuk-tuks, buses, and taxis, or rent a car. For those wanting a more eco-friendly option, walking or cycling is a great way to explore the city at your own pace.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Kandy, here’s a simple itinerary for a 2-3 day stay:
Day 1: Visit the Sri Dalada Maligawa, explore the Royal Palace and nearby Botanic Gardens.
Day 2: Take a day trip to Bahirawakanda Temple and hike up Udawatta Kele Sanctuary.
Day 3: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Kandy Lake and spend the afternoon exploring local markets.
Kandy is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, with its cultural sites in Kandy offering insights into Sri Lanka’s history.
The Sri Dalada Maligawa is the most sacred and visited temple in Kandy. It is a central spiritual site for Buddhists, housing the sacred tooth relic of Buddha. The temple is a focal point of Sri Lanka’s cultural significance, especially during the annual Esala Perahera festival.
When visiting Kandy, keep these Kandy travel tips in mind:
Always dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering your shoulders and knees.
Stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting during the hot months.
If you’re traveling solo, it’s a good idea to book a guided tour to get the most out of your experience.
Kandy offers an unforgettable experience, from the ancient temples to the lush landscapes. Whether you’re visiting the best temples in Kandy or exploring the city’s vibrant markets, you’ll find plenty of Kandy sightseeing options. Remember to plan your Kandy itinerary wisely to ensure you cover all the Kandy Sri Lanka attractions and enjoy the rich culture and natural beauty this destination has to offer.
Top spots include the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, Royal Botanic Gardens, and Kandy Lake.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April.
You can use tuk-tuks, buses, taxis, or rent a bike or car.
Yes, you can explore the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary or hike to the Bahirawakanda Temple.
Yes, Kandy is generally safe for solo travelers. Just take normal precautions when exploring at night.
A 2-3 day stay is ideal to explore Kandy’s main attractions and cultural sites.
