Kandy caught us off guard. We’d planned to treat it as a quick stop between the airport and the tea country, and ended up wishing we’d booked an extra two nights. Sri Lanka’s last royal capital sits around a lake in a bowl of green hills, and it’s home to the country’s most sacred Buddhist temple, a world-class botanical garden and a cool mountain breeze that feels glorious after the coast.
Here are the best things to do in Kandy, from must-see sights to the small moments we loved, plus practical tips for Australians. For the big picture, start with our Kandy travel guide.
1. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
The Sri Dalada Maligawa, or Temple of the Tooth, houses what Buddhists believe is a tooth of the Buddha, and it’s the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka. Go for the evening puja (ceremony), when drummers play, the crowds swell with white-clad pilgrims and the air smells of frangipani and incense. Read our full Temple of the Tooth guide before you go.
2. Walk around Kandy Lake
The lake loop is about 3 to 4 kilometres and takes an hour at a gentle pace. Go early morning when it’s cool and the city is waking up. You’ll pass monitor lizards sunbaking on the banks, fruit bats in the trees and lovely views back to the temple.
3. Spend half a day at Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
About 15 to 20 minutes from town, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya are among the finest in Asia. Highlights include the giant Javan fig tree, the avenue of royal palms, the orchid house and the spice garden. Bring water and a hat; it’s a big place.
4. Catch the view from Arthur’s Seat
For the classic postcard view over the lake, temple and city, head up to the Arthur’s Seat lookout above town. It’s a steep walk or a quick tuk-tuk ride, and best in the late afternoon light.
5. See a Kandyan dance performance
Several cultural centres near the lake stage nightly Kandyan dance shows with drumming, colourful costumes and, at some, a fire-walking finale. It’s touristy, but energetic and a great introduction to Sri Lankan performing arts.
6. Climb to the Bahiravokanda Buddha statue
The big white Buddha watching over Kandy is visible from almost everywhere in town. Climb up for panoramic views. Dress modestly and remove shoes at the top.
7. Browse the Kandy Central Market
A great place to see local life, buy spices, tropical fruit and handicrafts, and practise your polite bargaining.
8. Visit a tea factory and estate
You don’t have to wait until Nuwara Eliya to see how tea is made. A few estates and the Ceylon Tea Museum within driving distance of Kandy offer tours and tastings, which make a great half-day trip.
9. Take a day trip to the Knuckles or Hanthana ranges
Keen walkers can head into the hills for guided treks through cloud forest, villages and tea gardens. Go with a local guide and check conditions, especially in the wet season.
10. Ride the train into the hills
Kandy is the starting point for one of the world’s most scenic train journeys, winding up through tea plantations to Nuwara Eliya and Ella. See our Kandy to Ella train guide for tips on booking seats.
Our tip: Kandy gets busy and traffic-clogged in the middle of the day. Do your sightseeing early, rest in the afternoon, and head out again for the temple ceremony in the evening.
How many days do you need in Kandy?
Two full days is ideal for the main sights. Add a third if you want a tea estate visit or a hike. Kandy also makes an easy base for day trips to Sigiriya and Dambulla if you don’t mind early starts.
Practical tips for Australians
- Dress code: cover shoulders and knees for temples, and take a scarf or sarong. You’ll remove shoes and hats at sacred sites.
- Weather: Kandy is cooler than the coast, especially at night. Pack a light jacket.
- Getting there: roughly 3 to 4 hours by car from Colombo airport depending on traffic, or take the train from Colombo.
- Festivals: the Esala Perahera, usually in July or August, is spectacular but books out early. Check dates before you travel.
- Safety: Kandy is generally relaxed for visitors. Check Smartraveller before you go.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kandy worth visiting?
Yes. Kandy combines Sri Lanka’s most important temple, beautiful scenery, cooler weather and easy access to the hill country.
What is Kandy famous for?
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake, the Esala Perahera festival and the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
What should I wear in Kandy?
Light, breathable clothes plus something that covers shoulders and knees for temple visits. A light jacket helps on cool evenings.
Plan your Kandy stay
We’re a Melbourne-based team helping Australians plan Sri Lanka trips. Get in touch and we’ll help you fit Kandy into your itinerary, or read our guide on where to stay in Kandy.
