Kandy is a key transit point in Sri Lanka and fits easily into any stage of your journey. From here, travellers can head north toward cultural destinations like Anuradhapura and Sigiriya or travel south into the hill country toward Nuwara Eliya and Ella, making it a natural connection between the island’s major regions while offering a scenic and comfortable stop along the way.
Kandy is best known as the city that holds the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, a symbol of power where, in ancient Sri Lanka, every king had to be its guardian to rule the country. Today, this priceless relic is kept in one of the most beautiful and sacred temples in Sri Lanka, making Kandy the spiritual heart of the island.
At SL VOYO, Sri Lanka’s first travel platform, we help travellers discover Sri Lanka through experiences that go beyond basic sightseeing. Whether you are joining our Sri Lanka tours or planning your own adventure, this is our friendly guide to the top things to do in Kandy.
By visiting the city of Kandy, you can experience the rich culture, history and natural beauty of Sri Lanka. Surrounded by lush mountains and blessed with a mild climate, Kandy offers a peaceful escape from the busy life of other cities. The calm waters of Kandy Lake, the breathtaking views from Hanthana mountain range and the colourful displays at the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens make it a must visit destination.
The Esala Perahera held annually in Kandy is one of the most popular Sri Lankan cultural events among tourists. It is a grand evening procession featuring traditional dancers, drummers and beautifully decorated elephants.
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, located in the heart of Kandy,Sri Lanka is one of the country’s most significant religious and cultural landmarks. Enshrinig the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, it is considered one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world.
When you enter the Temple of the Tooth, you will see a golden looking area.This is because the walls are mostly painted in gold and yellow colors.The roof of the temple is made of wood and built in a pointed shape.There are three daily rituals(Thevava) held at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.If you visit during these times, you can see and take part in them.The rituals are performed by temple officials called ”Nilames”
The Sacred Tooth Relic is kept in a golden casket and people worship it with great respect. You also have the chance to visit the museum inside the Temple of the Tooth, which shows the history of the temple.
Tourists visiting in July or August can witness the grand Esala Perahera, a spectacular cultural procession featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and beautifully adorned elephants, held to honour the Sacred Tooth Relic and invoke blessings for rain, prosperity, and protection, during which a sacred casket representing the Tooth Relic is taken outside the temple so the public can pay homage, symbolising the relic’s role as a guardian of the nation and its people.
Morning (Dawn) Pooja — starts around 5:30 AM and continues until about 7:00 AM.
Midday (Noon) Pooja — begins at about 9:30 AM and runs until around 11:00 AM.
Evening (Dusk) Pooja — takes place from approximately 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
You must remove shoes and hats before entering the temple premises.
Maintain silence and behave respectfully during your visit.
Photography is allowed in certain areas, but avoid using flash or taking pictures during rituals.
Do not touch statues or offering unless permitted.
For a spiritual experience visit Puja times, when offerings and rituals are performed. The temple gets crowded, especially on weekends and full moon poya days.
Smoking and eating are strictly prohibited within temple grounds.
Observe and follow the customs of local worshippers without interrupting.
A guide can help you understand the history and significance of what you see.
The largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka is the Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya, located near Kandy. Covering about 147 acres (60 hectares). it is home to over 4,000 plant species, including famous orchid collections, spice gardens and giant trees, making it one of Asia’s major botanical landmarks and a popular tourist attraction.
At the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, you’ll find vast collections of orchids, palms, spices, and medicinal plants, alongside impressive specimens such as the Giant Javan Fig Tree, the towering Giant Bamboo of Burma, the unique Cannonball Tree, and the large-seeded Double Coconut Palm. All of this is set among expansive lawns, tree-lined avenues, and an artificial lake, with the Mahaweli River gracefully bordering the garden grounds.
You can visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya, from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily. with the best times being early morning to avoid heat and crowds, and the peak season for flowers often falling between April and July, though January to April offers generally pleasant weather for Kandy.
To see natural and beautiful varieties of flowers.
To enjoy boat ride along the Mahaweli River.
To walk across the suspension bridge to the middle of the Mahaweli River and take photos.
To relax after a tiring day of travel.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens Entrance Fees
Description | LKR |
Foreign Adults | 3540 |
Once a pleasure garden for Kandyan kings, now the Udawattakele Forest Reserve is a peaceful reserve for nature lovers. Trails interweave through thick but placid foliage, while from distant leaves, the calls of birds and monkeys echo. It’s a great place to go for that morning hike. I like to start so many days right here in the quiet, finding wild-winged wonders that always feel like a treat.
🕐 Opening hours: ~8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Foreign visitors: ~Rs. 930 Ticket Price
The Buddha statue at Bahirawakanda Vihara rises high into the sky and is visible from almost everywhere in Kandy. It doesn’t just function as a spiritual site but gives some of the best views across the city. While the climb up the hill is gentle, the panoramic view from the top well repays the effort. It would be best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the scorching heat of the midday sun.
🕐 Opening hours: ~6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
🎟️ Entrance ticket:
Kandy is located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, about 115 km from Colombo.
Kandy is famous for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake, cultural dance shows, and its rich history.
Yes, the Sacred City of Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The best time to visit Kandy is from December to April, when the weather is pleasant.
You can travel by train, bus, or private vehicle. The train journey is very popular for its scenic views.
Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Yes, traditional Kandyan dance shows are held daily in the evening.
Two to three days are usually enough to explore the main attractions.
Yes, Kandy is suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Main attractions include the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake, Royal Botanic Gardens Peradeniya, Udawattakele Forest Reserve, and Knuckles Viewpoints.
What is it?
Google Ranked #1, the Heartfelt Expedition is a unique tour that invites tourists to personally engage in charitable events from the perspective of a local donor. Participants will be involved in school initiatives, elderly adoption, and community assistance throughout Sri Lanka.
Discover authentic culture and make a difference by helping local communities.
