Kandy, Sri Lanka's last royal capital, sits around a lake in the green central hills. It's the island's cultural heart and a perfect base for day trips. These are our favourite things to do there.
In the city
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth, ideally during one of the daily ceremonies.
- Walk around Kandy Lake early in the morning.
- See a Kandyan dance performance with drummers and fire-walkers.
- Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya, with its palm avenues and orchid house.
- Climb to the Bahirawakanda Buddha for views over the city.
- Take in the panorama from the Kandy viewpoint above the lake.
- Walk in the Udawattakele forest reserve behind the temple.
- Browse the central market for fruit, spices and handicrafts.
Just outside the city
- Visit the Ceylon Tea Museum and a working tea estate.
- See the carved wooden pillars of Embekke and the old temples of Gadaladeniya and Lankatilaka.
- Visit a spice garden on the road towards Matale.
Day trips from Kandy
- Sembuwatta Lake, among tea estates near Elkaduwa.
- Sigiriya and Dambulla, a full day north.
- Hiking in the Knuckles Mountain Range.
- White-water rafting at Kitulgala.
When to visit
Kandy is pleasant to visit all year. In July or August, the Esala Perahera fills the streets with processions; book early if your dates match.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need in Kandy?
One full day covers the main sights; two or three days lets you add day trips such as Sembuwatta Lake or Sigiriya.
What is Kandy famous for?
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, its lake, the Esala Perahera festival and its role as the last royal capital.
Is Kandy a good base for day trips?
Yes. Its central location makes Sigiriya, the tea country, the Knuckles and Kitulgala reachable in a day.
