Kandy Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, See, and Experience in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Capital.
Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, is one of Sri Lanka’s most culturally significant cities. Nestled in the island’s central highlands, Kandy was the last Royal Capital of Sri Lanka, serving as the seat of the Sinhalese monarchy from 1469 until 1815. It remains a vital cultural and religious hub, known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Getting There
Scenic Train
- Journey: Colombo to Kandy
- Duration: Approximately two h 33m
- Cost: LKR 240–7,000 (depending on class)
- Departure: Every three hours from Fort Station
Welcome Pickups: Reliable and personalized travel with English-speaking drivers.
By Taxi
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Cost: LKR 7,000 to 24,000
- Options: Welcome Pickups, Uber Intercity or PickMe.
Welcome Pickups: Reliable and personalized travel with English-speaking drivers.
By Luxury Van
- Duration: Around three h 30m
- Cost: LKR 4,800
In-Between Stops
Dambulla Cave Temple: UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Entrance fee: LKR 2,000 (approx. USD 6.84) for foreign adults
Sigiriya (Lion Rock): UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Entrance fee: USD 36 for foreign adults and discounts for children
Travel Tips
- Purchase an E-SIMS card for local connectivity
- Book train tickets in advance
- Carry cash in Sri Lankan Rupees
- Pack tissues and cleansing cloths
- Use insect repellent (DEET 30-50% ) or citronella spray
- Wear modest clothing for temple visits
- Bring a reusable water bottle (fill at the hotel)
Duration of Stay
- Kandy Only: 2–3 days
- With Side Trips: Add 1–2 extra days for Sigiriya and Dambulla
Where to Stay
Luxury Accommodations
- The Grand Kandyan Hotel
- Earl’s Regency Hotel
- Kings Pavilion
Midrange Options
- Hotel Suisse
- The Kandyan Manor
- Nature Walk Resort
Best Time to Visit
January to April (Dry Season)
- Average temperature: 65°F (18°C) to 81°F (27°C)
- Note: Sporadic, brief rain showers can still occur, so be prepared with appropriate gear.
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen and light jacket
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants
- Modest attire for temples
- Umbrella or foldable poncho
- Swimsuit, sunglasses, foldable hat, waterproof protective covering for mobile
Local Cuisine
- Jackfruit Curry (Polos Curry)
- Kandyan Sweet Treats (Konda Kavum)
- Rice and Curry variations (Fish is the most popular)
Shopping
Explore Kandy’s old town markets for:
- Traditional crafts
- Handmade jewelry
- Batik creations
- Handloom fabrics
- Spices
- Wood carvings
- Rainbow wood at Rajanima Craft
Cultural Tips
- Greetings: “Ayubowan” (ah-YOO-bow-wahn) with a slight bow and hands palms together like in prayer.
- Respect for elders
- Temple etiquette: Dress modestly, remove shoes
Tipping Guide
- Restaurant staff: 10% of the bill
- Hotel staff: 200-600 LKR per service
- Tour guides: 500-1000 LKR daily
- Taxi and tuk-tuk drivers: Round up fare or 100-200 LKR
- Spa therapists: 10% of the bill
Language
- Primary: Sinhala
- Secondary: Tamil
- English: Spoken in tourist areas
Getting Around
- PickMe or Uber: LKR 300–500 for short rides
- Tuk-Tuks: LKR 100–200 per kilometer
- Tuk-Tuk Safari Tours: LKR 3,000–5,000 for half-day
- Walking: Free and convenient for many attractions
Main Attractions
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: (Sri Dalada Maligawa) Sacred Buddhist shrine, Kandy’s cultural heart.
- Royal Botanical Gardens: These are the oldest formal gardens in Peradeniya, with a rich history dating back to 1371. Although not in Kandy, they are close to and easily accessible.
- Kandy Lake: Scenic lake in the city center. Hire a boat for a relaxing tour.
- Ceylon Tea Museum: Located 3-5 km south of Kandy city center, offering insights into Sri Lanka’s tea industry and beautiful views. Give yourself time for a tea-tasting.
- Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue: At 88 feet (27 meters) high, one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka.
- Three-Temple Loop: Historical Buddhist temples in Kandy showcasing architectural wonders and cultural heritage.
- The Oldest Post Office in Kandy: Established in the 1820s, this colonial building still operates today. I enjoyed sending postcards to my friends and family back home.
- Batik-Making Experience: Batiks are traditional textile art with vibrant wax-resist dyeing traditions. A hands-on experience.
Popular Tours
- The Ultimate Sigiriya Rock Day Trip
- Minneriya National Park Safari Tour
- The 10 Tastings of Kandy: Street Food Tour
Festivals
- Esala Perahera festival (July or August)
- Sinhalese New Year (mid-April)
Pre-Travel Recommendations
You can check Visa and ETA requirements on the official Sri Lankan government site. Purchasing through the official website is less expensive.
Conclusion
Discovering Kandy: Kandy blends history, culture, and natural beauty, offering something for every traveler in Sri Lanka’s stunning Hill Country. As I walked through the vibrant markets filled with unique crafts and stood in awe before the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, I realized that Kandy truly delivers on its promise of a memorable and enriching experience. Creating memories I’ll cherish forever.
Resources
Solo Her Way is here to support your Sri Lankan journey. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or embarking on your first solo adventure, I’m here to help. For personalized guidance or assistance crafting the perfect itinerary, reach out through my website or socials. Don’t forget to sign up for my email list to receive a free travel guide and a complimentary 15-minute consultation.
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