Nestled in the lush hills of central Sri Lanka, Kandy is one of the country’s most culturally rich and spiritually significant destinations. Once the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy is best known for its sacred temples, misty landscapes and relaxed hill-town charm. For Indian travellers, Kandy offers a perfect blend of history, nature, spirituality and cooler weather—making it an essential stop on any Sri Lanka itinerary.
This guide explains everything you need to know to plan a smooth and memorable trip to Kandy, from the best time to visit and how to reach, to top attractions, food, stay options, and practical tips. For broader trip planning across the country, you can also explore our Sri Lanka Travel Guide.
Best Time to Visit Kandy
The best time to visit Kandy is from December to April, when the weather is pleasant, dry, and ideal for sightseeing. During these months, daytime temperatures remain comfortable, and evenings feel cool, especially compared to Sri Lanka’s coastal regions.
The monsoon season (May to September) brings frequent rain, making outdoor sightseeing slightly challenging, though the surrounding hills look extremely green and scenic. October and November can be humid with occasional showers, but hotel prices are often lower during this shoulder period.
If you want to experience Kandy’s cultural side, plan your visit around July or August, when the famous Esala Perahera festival takes place.
Visa & Entry Rules for Kandy (Sri Lanka)
Kandy follows the same visa and entry rules as the rest of Sri Lanka. Indian travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travelling. For detailed, up-to-date visa rules, fees, and application steps, read our complete Sri Lanka visa guide.
How to Reach Kandy from India
Kandy does not have an international airport. Indian travellers first need to fly to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo.
From Colombo, you can reach Kandy by:
- Train: One of the most scenic train journeys in Sri Lanka, taking around 3–4 hours.
- Taxi or Private Transfer: The most comfortable option, taking approximately 3.5 hours.
- Bus: Budget-friendly but less comfortable, especially with luggage.
Most Indian travellers prefer a private transfer or train depending on comfort and schedule.
Getting Around Kandy
Kandy is a compact city, and many attractions are located close to each other. For short distances, tuk-tuks are widely available and affordable. For nearby attractions and viewpoints, hiring a private car with driver is the most convenient option, especially for families or senior travellers. Walking is possible around the lake area, but hilly roads and traffic can be tiring during peak hours.
Ideal Trip Duration for Kandy
As per our recommendation, the ideal duration to explore Kandy is 3 days. This allows enough time to visit the main temples, enjoy scenic viewpoints, explore nearby attractions, and experience the city without rushing. However, Kandy is often combined with Nuwara Eliya, Ella, or Sigiriya as part of a larger Sri Lanka itinerary.
Top Places to Visit in Kandy
1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
This is the most sacred site in Kandy and one of the most important Buddhist temples in the world. The temple houses the revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha, making it a major pilgrimage site. Visitors can witness daily rituals, admire traditional architecture, and experience a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Even non-religious travellers appreciate the calm and cultural significance of this place. Modest clothing is required when visiting.
2. Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake)
Located in the heart of the city, Kandy Lake adds a peaceful charm to the otherwise busy town. A walk along the lake during early morning or sunset offers beautiful views of surrounding hills and temples. The lake area is ideal for relaxed strolls and photography. It also provides a refreshing break between temple visits and city sightseeing.
3. Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya
Situated just outside Kandy, these gardens are among the finest in Asia. They feature thousands of plant species, including orchids, palms, and medicinal plants. The well-maintained paths make it perfect for a slow, scenic walk. Families and nature lovers especially enjoy spending a few peaceful hours here.
4. Royal Palace of Kandy
Once home to Sri Lanka’s last kings, the Royal Palace complex reflects Kandy’s royal heritage. Located near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, it includes several historic buildings and courtyards. Visiting the palace helps travellers understand Kandy’s importance as the last royal capital of the island before colonial rule.
5. Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
This protected forest reserve lies close to the city and offers a surprising escape into nature. Visitors can explore walking trails, spot birds and monkeys, and enjoy cooler temperatures under dense tree cover. It’s ideal for travellers who enjoy quiet nature experiences without travelling far from the city.
6. International Buddhist Museum
Located near the temple complex, the International Buddhist Museum showcases the global spread of Buddhism through exhibits from different countries. Each section highlights how Buddhism is practised across Asia and beyond. It’s informative, well-organised, and adds cultural depth to a visit to the temple area.
7. Other Notable Attractions in Kandy
Apart from the main highlights, Kandy has several other attractions that may interest travellers with additional time or specific interests.
- Hantana Mountain Range – Known for scenic hills, tea plantations, and short hikes with panoramic views around Kandy.
- Hantana Tea Museum – Offers insights into Sri Lanka’s tea history along with city views from its upper levels.
- Kandy View Point – A popular stop for panoramic views of Kandy city and Kandy Lake.
- Asgiriya Maha Viharaya – One of Kandy’s main Buddhist monasteries, known for its peaceful surroundings.
- Malwathu Maha Viharaya – An important monastic complex closely linked to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
- Central Market Kandy – A lively local market where visitors can observe daily life and shop for fresh produce and spices.
Popular Trips From Kandy
Kandy can also be used as a convenient base to explore attractions located slightly further away in Sri Lanka’s central region. From Kandy, travellers can organise day trips to iconic sites such as Sigiriya Lion Rock, the Dambulla Cave Temples, or even a wildlife safari in one of Sri Lanka’s national parks, including Kaudulla National Park, which is well known for its large elephant populations.
However, since these attractions are usually 2.5 hours or more one way from Kandy, proper planning is essential. We do not recommend relying on public transport for these day trips, as delays are common and can easily disrupt the entire day. Instead, arranging a private taxi or guided excursion is the most practical and stress-free option.
Best Things to Do in Kandy
Kandy is not a destination to rush through. The real value lies in slowing down and experiencing its culture, landscapes, and rhythm of life.
1. Attending Rituals
One of the most meaningful experiences in Kandy is attending a morning or evening ritual at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The atmosphere, chanting, and devotion give visitors a deeper understanding of why Kandy holds such spiritual importance in Sri Lanka.
2. Kandyan Cultural Dance Performance
Another must-do experience is watching a traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance. These evening shows showcase local drumming, fire dances, and centuries-old art forms that originated in the central highlands. It is one of the best ways to understand Kandy’s cultural identity in a short time.
3. Visiting Tea Estates
Nature lovers should plan a half-day visit to nearby tea plantations. Walking through tea estates, learning about Ceylon tea processing, and enjoying fresh tea with hill views is a relaxing and insightful experience, especially for Indian travellers unfamiliar with Sri Lanka’s tea heritage.
4. Enjoying Sunset Views at Kandy Lake
A sunset walk around the lake is simple but memorable. The views of the hills, temples, and reflections on the water make it one of the most calming experiences in the city, ideal after a full day of sightseeing.
5. Forest Walk
For travellers who enjoy quiet nature, a short forest walk in Udawatta Kele Sanctuary offers a refreshing break from city traffic. It’s an easy way to experience Sri Lanka’s biodiversity without long travel hours.
Where to Stay in Kandy (Area-Wise Guide)
Choosing the right area to stay in Kandy makes a big difference to your overall experience.
Kandy City Centre is best suited for travellers who want everything within walking or short tuk-tuk distance. Staying here is practical for short trips, temple visits, and travellers who prefer convenience over views.
Lake View and Hillside Areas are ideal for couples and travellers looking for a peaceful stay. Hotels here offer scenic views, quieter surroundings, and cooler evenings, making them perfect for relaxed stays and longer nights.
Peradeniya and Outskirts of Kandy work best for families, senior travellers, and those who prefer spacious resorts. These areas are less crowded, offer better road access, and are ideal if Kandy is part of a longer Sri Lanka circuit.
As a trusted travel agency, we always recommend selecting accommodation based on trip duration, mobility, and onward travel plans, not just price.
What to Eat in Kandy
Food in Kandy is flavourful, comforting, and largely suitable for Indian palates.
- You should try a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry, which comes with multiple vegetable dishes, sambols, and mild coconut-based gravies. It is filling and widely available.
- String hoppers with dhal or vegetable curry are a great breakfast option and very popular among vegetarian travellers. Kottu roti, made from chopped flatbread with vegetables or egg, is another local favourite worth trying.
Indian travellers will find good vegetarian food options, especially near temples and in central areas. South Indian and North Indian restaurants are also available for those who prefer familiar flavours during the trip.
What to Pack & Practical Tips
- Kandy has a cooler climate compared to Sri Lanka’s coastal regions, so pack light cotton clothes for the day and a light jacket for evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as sightseeing involves uneven roads and short climbs. Carry modest clothing for temple visits, covering shoulders and knees.
- Cash is useful for tuk-tuks, small eateries, and local shops, though larger hotels accept cards. If you plan to explore nearby areas, having a local SIM card makes navigation and coordination much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is Kandy famous for ?
The sacred city of Kandy is known for its colonial-era charm, deep-rooted Buddhist traditions, scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, which together have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the heart of the city lies its greatest spiritual landmark—the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world.
Q2. How many days are enough for Kandy?
Most travellers need 2 to 3 days in Kandy to explore the main attractions, cultural sites and nearby experiences comfortably without rushing.
Q3. Can Kandy be used as a base for nearby attractions?
Yes, Kandy can be used as a base to visit nearby attractions such as Sigiriya, Dambulla Cave Temples, and wildlife parks like Kaudulla. However, private transport is recommended due to travel distances.
Q4. Is Kandy safe to visit ?
Yes, Kandy is a safe, calm, culturally rich city, perfect to visit with your family.
Q5. Is vegetarian food easily available in Kandy?
Yes, vegetarian food is widely available, especially near temples and tourist areas.
Plan Your Sri Lanka Trip with Amrit Travels
Kandy is best enjoyed when it is properly paced and thoughtfully combined with other destinations like Nuwara Eliya, Ella, or Sigiriya. Poor planning often leads to rushed sightseeing and unnecessary fatigue.
At Amrit Travels, we focus on quality travel, not rushed itineraries. We help you plan:
- Comfortable hotels in the correct areas
- Smooth transfers between destinations
- A balanced Sri Lanka itinerary that actually feels like a holiday
If you want a well-planned, stress-free Sri Lanka trip where Kandy fits naturally into your itinerary, connect with Amrit Travels on WhatsApp. You’ll be assigned a dedicated destination expert who will handle personalised planning from start to finish.
