Kandy Travel Guide: Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Capital
Nestled in the hills of central Sri Lanka, Kandy is the heart of Sri Lanka and a vibrant city surrounded by lush greenery and steeped in history. Known for its sacred Buddhist sites, colonial architecture, and the stunning Kandy Lake, this city offers a perfect mix of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty making it a special place when visitng Sri Lanka
If you’re planning a trip through Sri Lanka, Kandy is a must-visit stop, often placed right after Colombo or Negombo in your Sri Lankan adventure. In this article, we’ll share with you the top 10 places to visit in Kandy, including detailed info about each site, as well as recommendations on where to stay, how to get there, and where to eat. Let’s dive into the cultural capital of Sri Lanka!
Kandy
Sigiriya
Yala Park
Ella
Trincomalee
Mirissa
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Unawatuna
Galle
Negombo
1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, within the historic royal palace complex in the heart of Kandy, stands as Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist shrine. This UNESCO World Heritage Site safeguards a precious relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha, making it a profound spiritual destination for thousands of pilgrims from across the globe. Visiting the temple offers a unique glimpse into Sri Lankan culture and religious devotion, with its beautifully preserved architecture and intricate rituals that have been maintained for centuries.
For travelers planning a visit, we recommend arriving early in the morning when the atmosphere is peaceful, and the temple is less crowded, allowing you to experience the serenity of the daily puja ceremony more intimately. Remember to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect within the sacred grounds.
Admission is affordable, around 2000 LKR (approximately $6.60 USD), making it accessible for most visitors.
Exploring this temple not only deepens your understanding of Buddhism but also connects you with a living tradition that continues to inspire many.
2. Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya is a sprawling oasis of natural beauty covering over 147 acres, making it the largest and one of the most captivating botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. Just a short 5.5-kilometer drive west from Kandy, the gardens are famed for their extensive orchid collection, impressive palm-lined avenues, and vibrant spice gardens that showcase the island’s rich botanical heritage.
During our visit, we were particularly struck by the peaceful ambiance and the colorful bursts of flowers that change with the seasons. For the best experience, set aside a few hours to stroll leisurely through the diverse sections, and don’t miss the iconic avenue of towering royal palms. Entrance costs around 3540 LKR (about $11.70 USD), which is well worth the immersive nature experience.
3. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
Perched atop Bahirawakanda Hill, the towering white Buddha statue known as Bahirawakanda Vihara offers a remarkable blend of spiritual calm and breathtaking panoramas over Kandy city. This serene spot is a hidden gem where visitors can soak in both the peaceful atmosphere and sweeping views.
We highly recommend timing your visit for sunset, when the fading light bathes the statue and the city below in warm golden hues, perfect for photography or quiet reflection. It typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to explore the area at a relaxed pace, including a gentle walk around the hilltop. Be sure to bring a hat and plenty of water, especially if visiting during the warmer months.
A small donation of around 400 LKR (approximately $1.30 USD) helps maintain the site and supports the monastic community.
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4. Udawattakele Forest Reserve
For nature lovers and bird watchers, Udawattakele Forest Reserve is an invaluable sanctuary tucked just behind the Temple of the Tooth. This lush forest offers a refreshing retreat from the bustling city, with winding trails that lead through dense greenery and vibrant birdlife.
We recommend wearing sturdy shoes and carrying insect repellent, as the forest is rich in biodiversity but can be humid and buggy in places. Access is easy from D.S. Senanayake Veediya, and the entrance fee is about 1000 LKR (~$6 USD). Spending a couple of hours here provides a peaceful break immersed in nature, where you might spot native birds or simply enjoy the calm sounds of the forest.
5. Ceylon Tea Museum
The Ceylon Tea Museum, located just 3 kilometers from Kandy along Hantana Road, offers a fascinating journey into the rich history of Sri Lanka’s iconic tea industry. Housed within a beautifully restored tea factory dating back to 1925, the museum takes visitors through the evolution of tea production, from its colonial origins to the modern techniques used today.
As a tea enthusiast, we found the exhibits incredibly engaging, but the highlight was the tasting session on the top floor where you can savor a variety of local teas while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The entrance fee is quite reasonable at around 1300 LKR (approximately $4.30 USD), making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to deepen their appreciation of Ceylon tea.
6. The Scenic Train Ride from Kandy to Ella or Nuwara Eliya
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Sri Lanka is the scenic train ride from Kandy to either Ella or Nuwara Eliya, widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys.
The route winds through lush tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and quaint villages, providing endless photo opportunities and a glimpse into rural life.
The journey to Ella takes about seven hours, while the trip to Nuwara Eliya is shorter, around four hours.
Depending on your budget, tickets range from $2 to $12 USD, with first class offering more comfort and second-class observation cars providing panoramic windows perfect for sightseeing. we strongly recommend booking reserved seats well in advance, especially if you want a spot in the observation car, as they fill up quickly during peak seasons.
7. Kandy Lake
Right in the heart of Kandy lies the serene Kandy Lake, an artificial lake created in 1807 by the island’s last Sinhalese king. It’s a tranquil oasis amid the city’s bustle, offering a lovely walking path that loops around the water.
We found the lake especially magical at sunset when the sky turns soft shades of pink and orange, reflecting beautifully on the calm surface. The full loop walk takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is completely free, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection after exploring the city.
8. Kandy Central Market
For a truly authentic taste of daily life in Kandy, the vibrant Kandy Central Market on Colombo Street is an essential stop. This bustling marketplace is alive with colorful displays of tropical fruits, rare spices, and traditional Sri Lankan sweets that you won’t easily find elsewhere.
We love going early in the morning when the market is at its liveliest and the produce is freshest, with vendors eagerly welcoming visitors and the aroma of fresh spices filling the air. While wandering the aisles is free, it’s hard to resist picking up some exotic fruits or unique spices as souvenirs.
9. Kandy Viewpoint (Arthur's Seat)
For a postcard-worthy panorama of Kandy, the viewpoint known as Arthur’s Seat offers sweeping views over Kandy Lake and the city skyline. Located on Rajapihilla Mawatha near the lake, this spot is perfect for capturing stunning photos or simply soaking in the landscape after a day of sightseeing.
10. Degaldoruwa Temple
A lesser-known treasure near Kandy is the Degaldoruwa Temple, a cave temple adorned with exquisite 18th-century Buddhist murals and sculptures. About six kilometers from the city, this tranquil site is often overlooked by tourists, but it offers a rich glimpse into Sri Lankan religious art and history.
We suggest hiring a tuk-tuk for the short journey and, if possible, arranging for a local guide who can provide detailed stories and insights that bring the temple’s artwork to life. Entrance is very affordable, just around 400 LKR (~$1.30 USD).
Visiting at sunrise or sunset adds a special magic, perfect for photography with the soft natural light highlighting the intricate details.
Where to Stay in Kandy
We’ve carefully selected accommodations for every budget. Here are 5 top-rated options on Booking.com:
👉 Villa Olde Ceylon ($$) –Colonial-style villa with tranquil ambiance
👉 SWP Eco Lodge ($) –Eco-friendly lodge near Kandy Lake.
👉Sevana City Hotel ($$) – Modern, comfortable, great value with breakfast
👉The Radh Hotel Kandy ($$) – Boutique hotel with classy rooms and pool
👉Cinnamon Citadel Kandy ($$$) – Riverside luxury resort with fine dining and a serene vibe
How to Visit Kandy
Most travelers arrive in Kandy as their second stop after Colombo or Negombo. Here's how to get there:
By Train
From Colombo Fort station to Kandy
Duration: ~3.5 hours
Price: ~$1–6 USD depending on class
Tip: Book in advance via 12GoAsia or at the station.
By Bus
From Colombo (Pettah Bus Station)
Duration: 3.5–4 hours
Price: ~$1.30–2.30 USD
Tip: AC buses are more comfortable; depart regularly.
By Private Transfer / Taxi
Duration: ~3 hours
Price: ~$40–70 USD
Tip: Great option for families or small groups.
By Tourist Shuttle or Tour Group
Often included in organized itineraries
Price: Varies (~$20–50 USD)
Tip: Ask your guesthouse to arrange one.
Where to Eat in Kandy
Kandy offers a delicious mix of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and international fare. Don’t miss trying Kandyan rice & curry, string hoppers, and kottu roti.
Here are 8 restaurant addresses, including 3 vegetarian-friendly options:
Balaji Dosai (Veg) – Popular for South Indian vegetarian food
The Empire Cafe – Stylish cafe with Sri Lankan fusion dishes
Devon Restaurant – Local favorite for rice & curry
Cafe Secret Alley (Veg) – Cozy, hidden spot for plant-based meals
Cool Corner Ice Cream Parlor – Famous for avocado ice cream
Soya Centre (Veg) – Budget-friendly vegetarian Sri Lankan street food
Licensed to Grill – BBQ & burgers with a view
Slightly Chilled Lounge – Asian/Western mix with sunset views
