Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya
Sri Lanka’s finest botanic gardens, just outside Kandy, with an orchid house, giant Java fig and avenues of royal palms.
- Mid-range
- Experience
Kandy View Point
The classic view over Kandy Lake, the Temple of the Tooth and the city, a short walk up from the lake.
- Budget
- Experience
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist temple, home of the relic of the Buddha’s tooth, beside Kandy Lake.
- Budget
- Experience
Esala Perahera
Kandy’s spectacular annual procession of dancers, drummers and decorated elephants, held over ten nights in July or August.
- Budget
- Experience
Kandyan Cultural Dance Show
An hour of traditional Kandyan dance, drumming and fire walking, held every evening in central Kandy.
- Mid-range
- Experience
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Kandy at a glance
Kandy was the last royal capital of Sri Lanka’s kings and is now a UNESCO World Heritage city. It sits in the hills of the Central Province, around a man-made lake, with the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) on its shore. It is cooler than Colombo, easy to explore on foot, and the natural gateway to the hill country.
Where to stay in Kandy
- Around the lake and Rajapihilla Mawatha: the road that climbs above the lake towards the Kandy viewpoint. Walkable, with the best views.
- Town centre: streets like Cross Street and Dalada Veediya, close to the railway station and the temple. Busy, practical and good value.
- The hills outside town: quieter, greener and often with big views, but you will rely on tuk-tuks.
Don’t miss
The Temple of the Tooth (dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered), a walk around Kandy Lake, the view from Rajapihilla Mawatha, and the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, a short ride out of town. If you are visiting in July or August, check the dates of the Esala Perahera, one of Asia’s great festivals, and book well ahead.
Good to know
Where is the best area to stay in Kandy?
Around Kandy Lake or on Rajapihilla Mawatha if you want views and to walk everywhere. The town centre is cheaper and close to the railway station. The hills outside town are quieter but you will need tuk-tuks.
How many days do you need in Kandy?
Two nights covers the Temple of the Tooth, the lake, the viewpoint and the botanical gardens at a relaxed pace. Add a night or two if you want day trips into the hill country.
How do you get from Colombo to Kandy?
By train from Colombo Fort, a popular and scenic ride of around three hours, or by road, which usually takes three to four hours depending on traffic. Book reserved train seats ahead in busy seasons.
When is the Kandy Esala Perahera?
It usually takes place in July or August, with dates set by the lunar calendar. Kandy fills up fast during the festival, so book accommodation early.
What should I wear to the Temple of the Tooth?
Cover your shoulders and knees, and be ready to take your shoes off at the entrance. White or light clothing is traditional but not required.