Kandy
Best time to visit
December to April for cooler, dry days.
Ideal stay
2 to 3 days
Perfect for
Culture lovers, nature seekers, families
Top attractions
Essential places to include on your Kandy itinerary.
Temple of the Tooth Relic
Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist shrine inside the former royal palace.
Kandy Lake
A tranquil lakeside walk with city views and colonial charm.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Lush gardens in Peradeniya with orchids, palms, and giant bamboo.
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
Forest reserve with easy trails and birdlife just above the lake.
Bahirawakanda Temple
Hilltop Buddha statue offering panoramic city views.
Ceylon Tea Museum
Heritage tea factory with tastings and historic exhibits.
Kandyan Cultural Centre
Traditional dance performances showcasing Kandy's living culture.
Embekka Devalaya
Intricately carved wooden temple just outside the city.
Kandy photo gallery
Highlights from the most iconic sights and landscapes.
Temple of the Tooth Relic
Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist shrine inside the former royal palace.
Kandy Lake
A tranquil lakeside walk with city views and colonial charm.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Lush gardens in Peradeniya with orchids, palms, and giant bamboo.
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
Forest reserve with easy trails and birdlife just above the lake.
Bahirawakanda Temple
Hilltop Buddha statue offering panoramic city views.
Ceylon Tea Museum
Heritage tea factory with tastings and historic exhibits.
Experience
Immerse in Kandy
Signature experiences
- Attend a Kandyan dance and drumming show
- Take a dawn walk around Kandy Lake
- Pair with a tea estate day trip in the hills
Travel tips
- Traffic can be heavy, so plan transfers with extra time.
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth during puja hours for atmosphere.
- Evenings are cooler; carry a light layer.