Kandy
Cultural Heart of Sri Lanka
Discover the Magic
Nestled in the hills of central Sri Lanka, Kandy is the island's cultural and spiritual heartland. This UNESCO World Heritage city was the last capital of Sri Lankan kingdoms and remains a vibrant center of Buddhist culture. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, housing one of Buddha's teeth, is the most important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty with its scenic lake, lush botanical gardens, and traditional Kandyan dance performances.
Must-Visit Attractions
Experience the best of what Kandy has to offer
Temple of the Sacred Tooth
Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist temple housing a tooth relic of Buddha, with daily puja ceremonies at dawn, noon, and evening.
Kandy Lake
A beautiful artificial lake in the city center, perfect for evening strolls with stunning views of the illuminated temple.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Magnificent 147-acre gardens in Peradeniya featuring over 4,000 species of plants, orchids, and giant bamboo.
Cultural Dance Show
Experience traditional Kandyan dance performances with fire walking, acrobatics, and vibrant costumes.
Bahirawakanda Temple
Giant white Buddha statue on a hilltop offering panoramic views of Kandy city and surrounding mountains.
Udawattakele Forest Reserve
A 104-hectare rainforest sanctuary above the city, perfect for nature walks and bird watching.
Essential Travel Information
Everything you need to know for your Kandy adventure
Best Time to Visit
December to April for pleasant weather. Visit in July/August to experience the magnificent Esala Perahera festival.
Weather & Climate
Cooler mountain climate with temperatures between 18°C to 28°C. Can be misty and cooler in evenings.
Currency & Costs
Temple entrance: 1,000 LKR for foreigners, plus 300 LKR for photography, 50 LKR for shoe storage.
Language
Sinhala primary language. English widely spoken in hotels and tourist areas.
Local Tips & Insider Advice
- Book hotel accommodation near Kandy Lake for convenient temple access
- Attend the 5:30 AM puja ceremony at the Temple of the Tooth to see the relic casket
- Dress modestly - cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites
- The Esala Perahera festival in July/August features elephants and traditional processions
- Try authentic Kandyan cuisine at local restaurants around the lake
- Allocate 2-3 days to fully explore Kandy and nearby attractions
Gallery
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Kandy
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