Kandy’s grand colonial-era hotel, more than 160 years old, right by Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Tooth.
- Mid-range
A hillside retreat in Heerasgala, above Kandy, known for misty mornings, sweeping views and warm service.
- Upscale
A 27-room hotel on Rajapihilla Mawatha with a rooftop pool and lake views, a short walk from Kandy Lake and Wales Park.
- Upscale
A 115-room resort hotel on a bend of the Mahaweli River just outside Kandy, with a large riverside pool and several restaurants.
- Upscale
A hillside hotel above Kandy where every room has a balcony with mountain views. Quieter than the centre, with a restaurant, bar and garden.
- Budget
A two-storey Kandy classic on Dalada Veediya, serving Sri Lankan and Chinese dishes, bakery treats and milk tea since 1960.
- Budget
- Restaurant
- Rice and curry
- Bakery
- Milk tea
A large five-star hotel in Ampitiya, about two kilometres from central Kandy, with an infinity pool, spa, and several restaurants and bars.
- Upscale
A café in a restored colonial building next to the Temple of the Tooth, serving rice and curry, sandwiches, juices and good coffee.
- Mid-range
- Café
- Rice and curry
- Fresh juices
- Coffee
A good-value hostel above Kandy with some of the best views in the city, a sunrise balcony and help planning onward travel.
- Budget
A small café a short walk from the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake, known for homemade cakes and good coffee.
- Budget
- Café
- Homemade cakes
- Coffee
Sri Lanka’s finest botanic gardens, just outside Kandy, with an orchid house, giant Java fig and avenues of royal palms.
- Mid-range
- Experience
A small boutique hotel by Kandy Lake, with lake and city-view rooms, a garden terrace and its own restaurant, minutes from the town centre.
- Budget
Premier choice places are featured partners. Some links are affiliate or partner links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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.