Kandy
Sri Lanka's Sacred Cultural Capital
Welcome to Kandy: The Heart of Sri Lankan Culture
Nestled in the misty hills of central Sri Lanka, Kandy is a magical city that will steal your heart the moment you step foot here. This beautiful city sits 500 meters above sea level, surrounded by green mountains and filled with cool, fresh air. As the last royal capital of ancient Sri Lanka and home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy is where ancient spirituality meets stunning natural beauty.
Kandy is special because it's a UNESCO World Heritage site that has kept its old-world charm alive. The city was the final kingdom to resist British rule, making it the keeper of pure Sri Lankan traditions. You'll see this everywhere - in the traditional dances, the way people dress for temple visits, the old wooden houses, and the peaceful way of life.
What makes Kandy truly unique is how it blends the old with the new. Ancient temples sit next to modern shops, traditional craftsmen work alongside young entrepreneurs, and age-old festivals happen in a city that's very much alive today. The weather here is perfect - not too hot, not too cold - making it comfortable to explore all year round.
Whether you want to find inner peace at Buddhist temples, learn about Sri Lankan history, enjoy nature walks around the beautiful lake, or shop for authentic handicrafts, Kandy has something for everyone. This city doesn't just show you Sri Lankan culture - it lets you live and breathe it.
Why Kandy is Special:
Kandy was the last independent kingdom of Sri Lanka, never fully conquered by Portuguese or Dutch colonizers. This is why you'll find the purest forms of Sri Lankan culture, traditions, and architecture here. The city is also the birthplace of the famous Kandy dance and is home to some of the most skilled traditional craftsmen in the country.
How to Get to Kandy
🚂 By Train (Most Scenic)
- • Duration: 3 hours from Colombo Fort Station
- • Cost: 500-1500 LKR depending on class
- • Frequency: Multiple trains daily (6:00 AM - 8:00 PM)
- • Best seats: Right side for mountain views
- • Tip: Book 1st or 2nd class for comfort
🚌 By Bus (Budget Option)
- • Duration: 2.5-3 hours from Colombo
- • Cost: 200-400 LKR (very affordable)
- • Types: Government buses & private coaches
- • Departure: Bastian Mawatha Bus Station
- • Frequency: Every 30 minutes
🚗 By Car/Taxi
- • Duration: 2.5 hours from Colombo
- • Cost: 8,000-15,000 LKR for taxi
- • Route: A1 Highway (well-maintained)
- • From Airport: 3.5 hours, 12,000-20,000 LKR
- • Best for: Families, groups, luggage convenience
🌟 Recommended: Ceylantours offers reliable, comfortable vehicles with experienced drivers who know the best routes to Kandy. Professional service, fair pricing, and excellent local knowledge make them a top choice for hassle-free travel.
🏖️ From Galle (South Coast)
- • Train: 4-5 hours via Colombo (scenic coastal route)
- • Bus: 3.5 hours direct or via Colombo
- • Car: 3 hours via A2 and A1 highways
🌿 From Nuwara Eliya (Hill Country)
- • Train: 3 hours (famous scenic route)
- • Bus: 2.5 hours through tea plantations
- • Car: 2 hours via A5 road (mountain driving)
🦁 From Sigiriya (Cultural Triangle)
- • Bus: 2 hours direct buses available
- • Car: 1.5 hours via A6 and A9
- • Tour: Many combine both in day trips
💡 Pro Travel Tips
- • Train booking: Reserve seats online at railway.gov.lk
- • Best travel time: Early morning for less traffic
- • Weather check: Hill roads can be foggy in evenings
- • Currency: Have small notes for bus fares
- • Language: Drivers usually speak basic English
Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
The sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic - Buddhisms most important shrine
The Temple of the Tooth Relic is not just Kandys crown jewel – its one of Buddhisms most sacred sites worldwide. This magnificent temple houses a tooth relic of Lord Buddha, making it a pilgrimage destination for millions of Buddhists from around the globe.
Built in the 16th century, the temple showcases exquisite Kandyan architecture with its intricate woodwork, beautiful paintings, and golden roof. The daily rituals (pujas) held here are deeply moving spiritual experiences that offer visitors a glimpse into Sri Lankas Buddhist heritage.
Puja Times (Daily Rituals):
- • Morning: 5:30 AM - 6:45 AM
- • Afternoon: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
- • Evening: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Must-Visit Attractions in Kandy
The beautiful Kandy Lake - perfect for peaceful walks and photography
This beautiful man-made lake was created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the last king of Kandy. The lake covers about 18 hectares and is the centerpiece of the city. What makes it extra special is that it's right in front of the Temple of the Tooth, making it a sacred place for many visitors.
The lake has an interesting story - when the king first wanted to build it, his ministers were against it because they thought it was too expensive. But the king built it anyway, and today everyone agrees it was one of the best decisions ever made! The lake helps keep the city cool and provides a peaceful escape from busy streets.
Perfect Activities Here:
- Early morning walks (5:30-7:00 AM) - see locals doing exercises
- Evening strolls (5:00-7:00 PM) - golden hour photography
- Feeding colorful fish (bring bread from nearby shops)
- Bird watching - spot kingfishers, herons, and cormorants
- Small island visit (Kiri Samudraya) - once used by the royal family
Just 6km from Kandy city (15 minutes by tuk-tuk), these world-famous botanical gardens are like stepping into a green paradise. Originally created as a pleasure garden for Kandyan royalty in 1371, today it's home to over 4,000 different types of plants from all over the world. It's so beautiful that even Queen Elizabeth II planted a tree here!
The gardens are huge - 147 acres - but don't worry, there are clear paths and helpful signs everywhere. You can easily spend a whole day here, and there are plenty of shady spots to rest. The best part? It's not just pretty to look at - you'll learn so much about plants, trees, and flowers.
Must-See Highlights:
- Orchid House: Over 300 types of orchids, including rare varieties
- Giant Javan Fig Tree: Massive tree with branches covering huge area
- Spice Garden: See cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, and nutmeg growing
- Palm Avenue: Beautiful walkway lined with royal palm trees
- Medicinal Plants: Learn about traditional Sri Lankan healing plants
- Cannonball Tree: Weird and wonderful tree with unique round fruits
Practical Information:
- • Entry Fee: Very affordable - around 500 LKR for foreigners
- • Best Time: Early morning (8:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM)
- • Duration: 2-4 hours depending on your interest
- • Facilities: Restrooms, cafeteria, souvenir shop available
- • Perfect for: Families, couples, solo travelers, photographers
Royal Botanical Gardens - 147 acres of botanical paradise
High up on Bahirawakanda hill stands a magnificent 88-foot tall white Buddha statue that watches over the entire city of Kandy. Built in 1993, this peaceful temple complex is one of the best places to see Kandy from above. The climb up the hill might make you a bit tired, but the views are absolutely worth it!
This place is special because it's very quiet and peaceful, unlike the busier temples in the city center. Many locals come here early in the morning or evening to meditate and pray. The white statue looks especially beautiful during sunset when it glows against the colorful sky.
What Makes This Special:
- 360-degree views of Kandy city, lake, and surrounding mountains
- Perfect for sunrise (6:00 AM) and sunset (6:00 PM) photography
- Peaceful meditation spots around the statue
- Less crowded than main city temples
- Cool, fresh mountain air - great escape from city heat
Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue - Amazing city views from above
Traditional Kandyan cultural shows and Esala Perahera performances
Don't leave Kandy without watching these incredible cultural shows! These aren't just performances - they're living pieces of Sri Lankan history that have been passed down from parent to child for over 500 years. You'll see dancers in beautiful, colorful costumes performing moves that tell ancient stories.
The shows usually last about 1 hour and include different types of traditional dances, drumming that will make your heart beat faster, and the famous fire walking ceremony where performers walk on burning coals! Don't worry - it's completely safe to watch, and the performers are highly skilled.
What You'll See:
- Kandyan Dance: Graceful movements in stunning traditional costumes
- Drum Performances: Powerful rhythms on traditional Sri Lankan drums
- Fire Walking: Amazing feat where performers walk on hot coals
- Peacock Dance: Beautiful dance mimicking the movements of peacocks
- Cobra Dance: Mesmerizing performance representing the snake
Popular Venues & Times:
- • Kandy Cultural Centre: 7:00 PM daily (most popular)
- • Red Cross Society: 6:30 PM daily (intimate setting)
- • YMBA Cultural Hall: 7:00 PM daily (traditional venue)
- • Ticket Price: Around 1000-1500 LKR (very reasonable!)
- • Duration: 60-75 minutes with intermission
More Amazing Places to Visit Near Kandy
Kandy is surrounded by incredible places that are perfect for day trips. Each of these spots offers something unique - from adventure and nature to spirituality and breathtaking views. Most are within 1-2 hours from the city center.
This unique place represents religious harmony with Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, and Christian symbols all in one location. The tower offers incredible 360-degree views of the central highlands. Perfect for a half-day trip!
Seven beautiful mountain peaks perfect for hiking and nature lovers. You'll walk through tea plantations, see amazing views, and breathe the freshest mountain air. Different trails for beginners and experienced hikers.
A peaceful ancient temple built into natural rock caves. Perfect for meditation and quiet reflection. The views of the surrounding valleys are breathtaking, and it's much less crowded than city temples.
Named because the peaks look like knuckles of a clenched fist. This UNESCO site offers serious hiking, camping, and some of the best mountain views in Sri Lanka. Great for adventure seekers!
Built in 1344, this temple shows a unique mix of Sinhalese and South Indian architecture. The stone carvings and old paintings are incredible. Less touristy but equally beautiful.
Another 14th-century masterpiece built on a rock outcrop. The climb up is worth it for the views and the sense of peace you'll feel. The architecture is a perfect example of ancient Sinhalese design.
Famous for having the most beautiful wooden carvings in Sri Lanka. Each pillar is unique with amazing details of dancers, musicians, and animals. Art lovers will be amazed by the craftsmanship.
Watch baby elephants being bottle-fed and see the whole herd bathing in the river. Started as a home for orphaned elephants, now it's one of the most popular attractions near Kandy.
Perfect Day Trip Ideas from Kandy
🌿 Nature & Adventure Day
Start early at Hanthana Mountain Range for hiking (3 hours), then visit Hanthana Birds Park (1 hour), and end at Ambuluwawa Tower for sunset views. Perfect for active travelers!
🏛️ Temple & Culture Day
Visit Gadaladeniya Temple in the morning, continue to Lankatilaka Temple, then Embekke Devalaya for the wood carvings. End with a cultural show in Kandy. Perfect for history lovers!
Essential Dos and Donts for Kandy
Where to Stay in Kandy
- • Backpacker hostels in city center
- • Guesthouses near the lake
- • Family-run homestays
- • Shared dormitories
- • Boutique hotels with lake views
- • Colonial-style accommodations
- • Hotels near Temple of Tooth
- • Properties with cultural programs
- • Heritage hotels with history
- • Hilltop resorts with panoramic views
- • Spa resorts in the hills
- • Premium service and amenities
Getting Around Kandy
Tuk-Tuks (Three-wheelers)
Most convenient for short distances. Always negotiate the fare beforehand.
Local Buses
Cheapest option but can be crowded. Good for reaching nearby attractions.
Walking
City center is walkable. Perfect for exploring the lake area and main temples.
Taxi/Uber
Available but limited. Book through hotels for reliable service.
From Colombo
3 hours by train (scenic route) or 2.5 hours by car/bus
From Airport
3.5 hours by car. Pre-arranged transfers recommended.
Train Journey
One of the worlds most scenic train rides through tea plantations
Kandyan Cuisine & Where to Eat
Rice & Curry
Traditional Sri Lankan meal with multiple curries, sambols, and papadams
Kiribath
Coconut milk rice, often served during special occasions
Kandyan Sweets
Traditional desserts like kokis, aluwa, and bibikkan
Ceylon Tea
World-famous tea grown in the surrounding hills
The Empire Cafe
Colonial-style cafe with great views and local dishes
Balaji Dosai
Authentic South Indian vegetarian food
Kandy Muslim Hotel
Famous for biriyani and local Muslim cuisine
Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar
Rooftop dining with lake views
Kandy is more than just a destination – its a spiritual journey that connects you with the soul of Sri Lanka. From the sacred Temple of the Tooth to the serene lake walks, every moment in this cultural capital offers something magical.
Take time to immerse yourself in the local culture, attend a traditional dance performance, and dont rush through the temples. The beauty of Kandy lies not just in its sights, but in the peaceful atmosphere that has made it a pilgrimage destination for centuries.
May your journey to Kandy bring you peace, wonder, and unforgettable memories! 🙏✨