KANDY CITY TRAVEL GUIDE
Welcome to the ultimate Kandy city travel guide, your gateway to exploring the hill capital of Sri Lanka and its rich royal history. As the cultural heart of the island and the last ancient kingdom, Kandy offers an unforgettable blend of sacred temples, breathtaking highland landscapes, and timeless traditions. Whether you are planning a spiritual journey to the Temple of the Tooth.
Kandy is the hill capital of Sri Lanka; furthermore, it was the last kingdom, which came to an end on March 2nd, 1815. The British deposed the last King of Kandy, Sri Wikrama Rajasinghe, in 1815; consequently, the city’s reign as an independent kingdom ended.
The name comes from the Sinhala word “kanda,” meaning “hill,” because it became the capital of the hill country in Sinhala. Additionally, it is known as “Mahanuwara,” meaning the capital city, although its actual name was ‘Senkadagalapura.’ Historians attribute the name to several possible sources. For instance, local legends claim that a hermit named Senkada lived in a nearby cave, while other stories suggest that Queen Senkada, wife of Wikramabahu III, inspired the name
Kandy is the second largest city in Sri Lanka after Colombo and one of the most scenic cities in Sri Lanka, as well as the administrative and religious capital city of the Central Province.
Discover Kandy: Your Gateway to the Hill Country
As the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy serves as the perfect bridge between the city and the mountains. Perfectly situated on the rail line from Colombo and the primary gateway to the iconic train journey to Ella, Kandy is an essential stop for every traveler seeking to experience the best of our island’s history, culture, and breathtaking highland landscapes.
Places to Visit in Kandy City
| Sri Dalada Maligawa | Gadaladeniya Temple |
| Kandy view point / Arthur’s Seat | Lankatilaka Temple |
| Royal Botanical Garden | Embekka Devalaya |
| Bahirawakanda Temple | Neligala Temple |
| Asgiriya pagoda | Ranawana Temple |
| Udawathakele Forest | Hanthana Mountain Range |
| Cooking Demonstrations | Visit Village farmlands |
| Yoga Lessons | Attend Host community Craft Village |
THE HEART OF KANDY CITY- SRI DALADA MALIGAWA
Visitor Information For Kandy City Travel Guide
- Opening Hours: 05:30 AM – 08:00 PM
- Daily Rituals (Tevava): Experience the traditional drumming and offering ceremonies at:
- Morning: 05:30 AM – 08:00 AM
- Noon: 09:30 AM – 11:00 AM
- Evening: 06:30 PM – 08:00 PM
Pro Tips for Your Visit in Kandy
- Dress Code Matters: As this is a working religious site, please dress modestly. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. You will be required to remove your shoes and hat before entering.
- The Best Experience: If your schedule allows, try to visit during one of the Tevava ceremonies. The rhythmic drumming and the scent of jasmine flowers offer a deep, immersive cultural experience you won’t find anywhere else.
- What to Look For:
- The Octagon (Pattirippuwa): the last King of Kandy built the iconic Octagon (Pattirippuwa). Furthermore, the inner Tooth Relic Shrine contains the sacred relic of the Buddha.
- Tooth Relic Shrine [ Vedahitina Maligawa]:The place contains the relic of the Buddha
- The Museum: Located in the upper storeys, it displays royal apparel, ancient palm-leaf manuscripts, and gifts donated to the temple over centuries.
- The Entrance Gateway: Pay close attention to the newly sculpted Moonstone and the intricate Makara Thorana (dragon arch) at the tunnel entrance.
A Perfect 2-Day Kandy City Travel Guide Itinerary
Day 1: The Heart of the Kingdom
- Morning: Start early at the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) to witness the morning Tevava ceremony.
- Late Morning: Take a peaceful walk around Kandy Lake, enjoying the views of the city.
- Afternoon: Explore the Kandy Museum located within the temple complex to understand the royal history of the last kingdom.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance in the city center before dinner.
Day 2: Nature and Panoramic Views
- Morning: Head to the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya—it’s famous for its orchid collection and massive bat colonies.
- Afterwards, visit the Bahirawakanda Temple for one of the best panoramic views of Kandy city
- Late Afternoon: If you love nature, take a light hike through the Udawathakele Forest Reserve to spot birds and monkeys.
- Evening: Relax at a cafe overlooking the lake to end your Kandy adventure.
The Esala Perahera– 2026- this grand, centuries-old procession celebrates the Sacred Tooth Relic.It is a spectacular display of fire dancers, whip crackers, and ornately decorated elephants—including the famous Maligawa Tusker.
Tour in kandy
Kandy is the cultural heartbeat of Sri Lanka, offering an unforgettable blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat, a deep dive into the island’s royal past, or alternatively, a scenic adventure in the central highlands, this hill capital promises to captivate your senses. With its sacred temples, lush landscapes, and timeless traditions, Kandy is not just a destination to visit—it is a city to experience. Pack your bags, dress modestly, and prepare to be enchanted by the enduring charm of the kingdom in the hills.
To get the best views on the train to Ella, we recommend booking your tickets in advance. Need help coordinating your arrival from Colombo or your onward journey to Ella?
FAQ
Is Kandy worth visiting during my Sri Lanka trip?
Yes, absolutely! Kandy is the cultural heart of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage city. It is the perfect place to experience the island’s royal history, spiritual heritage, and the natural beauty of the central highlands.
What is the dress code for the Temple of the Tooth?
As this is a sacred religious site, all visitors are required to dress modestly. Please ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. You will also need to remove your shoes and any hats before entering the temple complex.
What is the best time of day to visit the Temple of the Tooth?
While the temple is open from 05:30 AM to 08:00 PM, we highly recommend visiting during one of the daily Tevava (offering) ceremonies at 05:30 AM, 09:30 AM, or 06:30 PM. During these times, you can witness the traditional drumming and the atmospheric rituals that have been performed for centuries.
How many days should I spend in Kandy?
We suggest spending 2 to 3 days in Kandy. This gives you enough time to comfortably visit the Temple of the Tooth, stroll around Kandy Lake, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
What is the best way to get to Kandy?
Kandy is easily accessible by road and the famous scenic railway. The train journey from Colombo or Nuwara Eliya is a highlight for many travelers, offering breathtaking views of tea plantations and waterfalls. If you prefer a more private and flexible experience, hiring a car and driver is a popular and comfortable option.
Seamless Travel:
Perfectly connected by the scenic train route from Colombo.
The Ultimate Starting Point:
The ideal home base before boarding the legendary, mist-filled train journey to Ella.
Cultural Immersion:
Don’t just pass through—experience the sacred history and royal charm that makes Kandy the heart of the central hills.