Kandy
City Guide
Overview
As Sri Lanka's second largest city, Kandy offers an effortless blend of rich history and vibrant culture. An enchanting mix of urban charm and lush countryside, Kandy is a treasure trove of traditional arts, religious sites, and cultural rites, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both city excitement and tranquil escapes. Renowned for its warm hospitality and tourist-friendly atmosphere, Kandy promises an unforgettable experience.
Significance
The last ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka before British rule, Kandy holds immense cultural and historical significance. It is also home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most revered Buddhist sites globally, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. The city is famous for having a colder climate and the existence of climate-supported vegetation. The Botanical Gardens are an exquisitely managed beauty of nature that is unmatched.
Historical Sites
Kandy Lake
Created by the last king of Sri Lanka, this serene man-made lake is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a boat ride.
Royal Palace of Kandy
Once the residence of the Kandyan kings, it is where the chieftains signed the Kandyan convention with the British.
The National Museum
Partially housed in the Royal Palace, it showcases over 5000 artefacts from the Kandyan era.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
Famous for its extensive collection of orchids, roses, and medicinal and tropical plants.
Religious Sites
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
This temple, known locally as 'Sri Dalada Maligawa', houses one of Buddha's teeth, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. Kandy Esala Perahera is an annual cultural pageant featuring traditional dancers, fire breathers, and lavishly decorated elephants that takes place from the temple.
Gadaladeniya Temple
A 14th-century temple known for its beautiful stone carvings and Dravidian architecture.
Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue
A towering statue offering panoramic views of Kandy and its surroundings.
Natha Devale
One of the oldest shrines in Kandy, made before the arrival of the tooth relic. It is dedicated to the deity Natha.
Special Information
Hiking and Camping
- Knuckles Mountain Range
- Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
- Hanthana Mountain Range
Offers numerous trails with varying difficulty levels and breathtaking vistas.
A historic forest reserve perfect for hiking and bird watching.
Popular for its picturesque hiking trails and camping spots.
Transport Options
Scenic train rides from Colombo or Kandy offer breathtaking views and it is only 3 hours! Bus services also connect Kandy with major cities. Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available for local travel.
Weather
Kandy enjoys a tropical climate but with a twist—it’s cooler than most of Sri Lanka thanks to its elevation, usually between 18°C (64°F) to 29°C (84°F). The best time to visit is from December to April when the weather is dry and pleasant. The monsoon season, from May to September, can be wet but lush and green.
Geographic Overview
Kandy is located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, on a plateau surrounded by hills and lying beside the Mahaweli River, the country's longest river. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the rest of the island.
Hotels and Food Spots
Hotels
Earl's Regency
A luxury hotel offering stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Mahaweli Reach
Provides five-star lodging with a backdrop of rolling mountains.
Cinnamon Citadel
Overlooking the Mahaweli River, this hotel is 4 km from the Temple of the Tooth in the city centre.
Kandy City Hotel
A budget-friendly option located in the heart of the city.
Food Spots
The Empire Cafe
Known for its delicious Sri Lankan and Western dishes in a cosy, retro-vintage setting.
Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar and Restaurant
Rooftop lounge bar that offers great food with a fantastic view of the city.
Cafe Secret Alley
A popular tourist choice, it is a boho-style cafe right next to the Dalada Maligawa.