Looking for the best things to do in Kandy? This vibrant hill-country city sits at the southern edge of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle and is one of the most important cultural stops in the country. Kandy blends spirituality, history, nature, and a lively city atmosphere, all set against a peaceful lake and surrounded by green hills.
Is Kandy Worth Visiting?
In short, yes, absolutely! We spent a few days here during our 1-month trip across the country exploring sacred temples, colourful markets, and nearby viewpoints. The city felt busy, loud, and slightly overwhelming at times, yet it also offered some of the most unique cultural experiences of our trip. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the evening ceremony, the botanical gardens, and the dramatic climb to Ambuluwawa Tower all made our visit unforgettable.
At the same time, I won’t lie, Kandy can be intense. Tuk-tuk scams are common, the streets are chaotic, and getting from place to place isn’t always smooth. However, once you find a good driver, a comfortable place to stay, and the right rhythm, the city becomes much easier to enjoy. And that’s when Kandy really starts to shine.
In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in and around Kandy, how to plan your visit, where to stay, and a few honest tips from our experience so you can enjoy the city without the stress.
Did you know?
Kandy is one of the most sacred cities in Sri Lanka, home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which protects a tooth believed to have belonged to the Buddha. It was also the final royal capital of ancient Sri Lanka, and the legacy of its last kings continues to shape the city today. Due to its rich mix of culture, religion, and history, Kandy is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains one of the most fascinating places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Best Things to Do in Kandy (City Centre)
Kandy is a mix of chaos and charm. The city can feel loud and overwhelming at first, but once you slow down, you realise how much culture, colour, and history it holds. We spent three days here, exploring the top attractions and wandering around the lake. We were sipping coffee in local cafés and squeezing into the famous evening ceremony at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. It was an experience we’ll never forget.
Here’s everything you should see in the heart of Kandy before heading out on day trips.
1. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
This is the most important place to visit in Kandy and one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist temples. The shrine houses a tooth believed to have belonged to the Buddha, and the atmosphere inside is powerful. Golden shrines, incense-filled halls, and locals offering flowers create a feeling you won’t forget.
A local told us not to miss the evening ceremony, so we planned our visit around the 6:30 pm session, and wow, it was busy. The moment the doors opened, crowds began pushing from every direction. Music filled the halls, drums echoed, and the atmosphere felt incredibly spiritual, but also overwhelming at times.
When we finally reached the queue for the altar, they closed the gate right in front of us at 7 pm. We couldn’t believe it. But it turned out to be a blessing. The 7:30 pm ceremony was quieter and much calmer, and we were among the first to enter when the doors reopened.
Good to know
- Taking photos: No photos as you pass the relic window, but you can take a beautiful shot from the opposite altar before the line moves. Arrive a little early for this
- Entrance: ~2,000 LKR
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered
- No shoes: You must remove them and leave them outside in a cloakroom
2. Walk Around Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake is the calmest part of the city, and it’s the perfect place to slow down after the chaos of the streets. We loved walking the loop in the late afternoon. The light was soft, locals were relaxing on the benches, and the views towards the Temple of the Tooth were beautiful.
It’s an easy, flat walk, and you’ll pass small shrines, old trees, and lots of birds. Even though Kandy feels busy and loud, the lake brings a little peace right in the centre of town.
3. Visit the International Buddhist Museum
Right next to the Temple of the Tooth, the International Buddhist Museum surprised us in a good way. It’s quiet, well-organised, and provides you with a deeper understanding of how Buddhism spread across Asia.
We visited before the evening ceremony, and it was a great way to connect the history with what we later saw inside the temple. The displays are simple, colourful, and easy to follow, even if you’re not usually a museum person.
Tip: Your Temple of the Tooth ticket includes entry here.
4. Climb Up to the Big Buddha (Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya)
If you’re looking for peaceful viewpoints and cultural experiences among the best things to do in Kandy, the Big Buddha is a must-see. This massive white statue stands high above the city, and the short, steep walk to the top is worth it for the panoramic views alone.
We walked up from the centre, and the moment we reached the top, the noise of the city disappeared. The statue feels even more impressive up close, and you can circle the base for beautiful views over Kandy.
Good to know
- Entrance: ~300 LKR (cash only)
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered
- No shoes: You must remove them and leave them outside in a cloakroom
- Wear socks: The marble floor gets extremely hot in the sun and can burn your feet while you walk around the statue
5. Explore Kandy’s Local Market
Exploring the local market is one of the easiest things to do in Kandy if you want to get a feel for everyday life. It’s noisy, colourful, and full of energy. You’ll walk past fresh fruit stalls, spice shops, street snacks, and tiny souvenir stands.
We loved wandering through the chaos, tasting fresh juice, and picking up a few Sri Lankan spices to take home. It’s an authentic slice of the city and perfect for a quick stop between the main attractions.
6. Watch a Kandyan Dance Show
The Kandyan dance show is one of the top cultural experiences in Kandy. The performance lasts about an hour and includes traditional drumming, colourful costumes, and fire dances inspired by ancient Sri Lankan folklore.
After our day trip, we went out, and it was a great way to end the evening. The atmosphere is lively, the music is powerful, and the performers are incredibly talented.
Entrance: ~2000 LKR
7. Arthur’s Seat Viewpoint
Arthur’s Seat is a quick and easy viewpoint right above Kandy Lake. It’s only a few minutes’ walk from the city centre, so it’s worth stopping by, especially if you’re already exploring the area. We stayed nearby and walked up one afternoon, and the view surprised us.
From the top, you get a lovely panorama over the lake, the city, and the hills in the distance. It’s not as dramatic as the Big Buddha viewpoint, but it’s peaceful and perfect for a short break between activities.
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for softer light and cooler weather. It’s also a great spot for taking a nice photo of Kandy Lake without the crowds.
Day Trips from Kandy
Kandy is a great base for exploring the hill country, and many of the best places to visit are actually just outside the city. We spent a full day visiting viewpoints, temples, a tea factory, and the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens, and it became one of our favourite experiences in the area.
Getting around in Kandy can feel overwhelming, especially with the constant price changes and pushy drivers, so hiring a reliable tuk-tuk driver made our day so much easier. If you want someone trustworthy, we recommend Kandycity tuk-tuk; it saved us time, stress, and unnecessary negotiations.
Below are the best day trips from Kandy, starting with the exact route we took.
1. Climb the Ambuluwawa Tower
Ambuluwawa Tower was the highlight of our day trip from Kandy. The drive up is steep but smooth, and once you reach the hilltop, the views are incredible. The white spiral tower rises above the entire valley, and climbing it feels surreal with narrow steps, strong wind, and endless views over the mountains.
It gets extremely windy near the top, so take your time and stay close to the stone wall as you climb. The earlier you come, the better. We visited mid-morning, and it was already quite busy, so the sunrise would be even more peaceful.
Entrance: ~2,750 LKR (updated price as of October 2025) + an additional fee for vehicles. Book your ticket on the official website.
Tip: The staircase gets tighter as you climb. If you are afraid of heights, enjoy the views from the lower levels. And if you fly a drone, be very careful, the wind is intense at the top, and we almost lost ours.
2. Visit Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya
Our next stop was the beautiful Lankathilake Temple, one of the most impressive temples near Kandy and a true hidden gem. Built in the 14th century during the Gampola Kingdom, it stands proudly atop the natural Pahangala Rock and blending traditional Sinhalese design with South Indian (Dravidian) architecture. Even if you’re not usually into temples, this one feels special — quiet, authentic, and full of history.
An elderly caretaker showed us around upon arrival. He didn’t speak much English, but his warmth made the visit even more memorable. Inside, you’ll find old murals, stone inscriptions, and a huge image house — all showing the craftsmanship of the era. And once you step outside, the panoramic views over the countryside are just breathtaking. It felt like a peaceful escape from the noise of Kandy.
This is a great stop if you enjoy learning about Sri Lanka’s heritage or simply want a calm moment.
Entrance: ~500 LKR
3. Stop at a Local tea Factory
You can’t visit the hill country without learning a little about tea. We stopped at New Giragama Tea Factory, a small local place where they explained the process from leaf to cup. We tried different teas and learned the difference between black, green, white, and golden teas.
Be aware that there’s usually pressure to buy something afterwards, and prices can be inflated (a common occurrence in Sri Lanka). Still, it’s an interesting stop, especially if you’re heading to Nuwara Eliya next.
4. Wander Through the Royal Botanical Gardens (Peradeniya)
This was one of our favourite places near Kandy. The gardens are enormous: tall palm avenues, giant bamboo, colourful orchids, and quiet riverside paths. You could easily spend 3+ hours here, and it’s the perfect break from the city after a busy morning of sightseeing.
We only had around 1.5 hours and felt rushed, so plan enough time if you want to see it properly.
Entrance: ~3,540 LKR. Book your ticket online.
Tip: Bring water and comfortable shoes. Some areas are huge and very spread out.
5. Other Day Trip Options from Kandy
If you have more time in your itinerary, there are several easy day trips from Kandy that you can book as organised tours or arrange independently.
- Sigiriya & Dambulla: climb Lion Rock or Pidurangala and explore the UNESCO-listed cave temples
- Minneriya National Park: popular for elephant safaris, especially during “The Gathering”
- Nuwara Eliya: tea plantations, misty mountains, and a slower pace of life
Where to Eat in Kandy
Some of our favourite memories in Kandy came from the simplest moments. We loved starting our days with good coffee, chatting with locals, and ending them with comforting Sri Lankan food. The city has a nice mix of cosy cafés and affordable restaurants, so you can always find something tasty between sightseeing stops.
Best Cafés in Kandy
- Cafe Koi
- Buono
- Barista Kandy City Centre
- Cafe Secret Alley
Best Restaurants in Kandy
- Mandiya
- Sri Krishna Dosai
- Balaji Dosai
- Soul Food
- Slighly Chilled Lounge
- Vito Wood Fired Pizza
These places offer a nice mix of comfort, affordability, and local flavour. It’s perfect for slowing down and enjoying the city among all the things to do in Kandy.
Where to Stay in Kandy
Choosing the right place to stay in Kandy can make a huge difference. The city can feel busy, loud, and overwhelming at times, so having a calm and comfortable base is essential.
We stayed at Shani Residence Kandy, a simple guesthouse with friendly hosts and a peaceful atmosphere. It was a short walk from Arthur’s Seat viewpoint, making it an ideal location for exploring the city.
If you prefer something more comfortable, you’ll find plenty of great hotels around Kandy Lake and the city centre. These areas are ideal for sightseeing, cafés, and easy tuk-tuk pickups.
Here are a few options for different budgets:
Budget & Mid-Range Stays
Luxury Stays
Tip: Stay 2–3 nights to enjoy both the city and the day trips. Look for accommodation near the lake or the city centre to avoid long tuk-tuk rides and traffic.
How to Get to and around Kandy
Getting to Kandy
Kandy is well-connected and easily accessible from most parts of Sri Lanka. We arrived from Sigiriya on the early direct bus, and the journey was straightforward. It got crowded at times, but it was still the quickest and cheapest way to reach the city.
From Sigiriya
- Direct bus at 6:30 am (about 3 hours, around 1,000 LKR)
- A private car takes around 2 hours and is more comfortable if you’re carrying luggage
From Colombo
- Around 3.5 hours by train or bus
- Trains are the more scenic option, but can sell out early, so arrive ahead of time or expect standing seats
From Ella or Nuwara Eliya
- Most travellers take the train from Kandy to Ella in reverse. It’s the most popular train route and can get really crowded. Also, seats sell out weeks ahead
Getting around Kandy
Once you arrive in the city, getting around is straightforward.
- Walking: The city centre is compact, so you can walk to many places. The lake, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, cafés, and most viewpoints are all within a short distance if the weather is good
- Tuk-tuks: These are the best for longer distances or rainy days. Your host can arrange one for you, or you can use the PickMe app for fair prices and less hassle
- Hire a driver: For a full day of sightseeing outside of the city, it’s best to hire a reliable driver who will not just take you to the best places but also share local tips and recommendations
If you want to find out more about public transport and travelling around the country, read my full post on Getting Around Sri Lanka.
Practical Tips for Visiting Kandy
- Best time to visit: For the best weather, choose December–April. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind some rain, May–October can still be a lovely time
- Dress modestly: Shoulders and knees must be covered at all major temples
- Carry small cash: Useful for entrances, offerings, and shoe storage at temples
- Choose reliable transport: Use PickMe or ask your guesthouse to arrange a trusted tuk-tuk driver. It avoids scams and inflated prices
- Stay central: Pick accommodation near Kandy Lake for easier access to the main attractions
- Avoid rush hours: Traffic in Kandy can be chaotic, so plan your temple visits and day trips with extra time
- Bring water and a hat: The city is warm, humid, and sightseeing days get long
- Stay connected: Airalo eSIM makes navigation and trip planning easy
- Budget tips: Eat at local curry houses, choose simple guesthouses, and use public buses for longer routes to keep costs low
- Language Tip: Learning a few basics goes a long way (Ayubowan = hello, Stuti = thank you)
- For more details, check my full Sri Lanka Travel Guide with essential info and extra tips
Above all, set up comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for reliable coverage and peace of mind while travelling abroad. For more information and to get started, check out SafetyWing website.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Kandy
Our time in Kandy was full of contrasts, but it’s still one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. The city can feel loud and hectic, yet the moments of calm make it worth every bit of effort. Watching the evening ceremony at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, walking around the lake at sunset, and sipping coffee in cosy cafés are memories we still talk about today.
Some of the best things to do in Kandy happen when you slow down. We loved the peaceful views from the Big Buddha, the rhythms of the Kandyan dance show, and the quiet corners of the Royal Botanical Gardens. And even though finding reliable transport was tricky, having a good tuk-tuk driver made exploring so much easier.
If you’re planning your Sri Lanka itinerary, don’t skip this city. Kandy is a cultural powerhouse boasting temples, gardens, local cuisine, and great day trips. It brings together history, nature, and everyday life in a way that feels both authentic and unforgettable. Spend a couple of days here, explore the highlights, and enjoy all the wonderful things to do in Kandy at your own pace.
