About Kandy

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient Sinhalese kings, is a vibrant city nestled among misty hills at 500 meters above sea level in the heart of Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses the most sacred Buddhist relic in the world — a tooth of the Buddha — making Kandy the spiritual capital of Sri Lankan Buddhism.

Surrounded by lush tea plantations, rainforest-covered mountains, and the serene Kandy Lake built by the last Sinhalese king in 1806, the city offers a captivating blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. The annual Esala Perahera, held in July or August, is one of the oldest and grandest Buddhist festivals in Asia, featuring elaborately decorated elephants, traditional dancers, fire-breathers, and drummers parading through the streets for ten nights.

Best Time to Visit

December to April

Recommended Stay

2-3 days

Distance from Airport

115 km (Approx. 3-4 hours by road from Colombo)

Ideal For

Cultural travelers, pilgrims, families, first-time visitors, festival enthusiasts, couples

Weather

Warm and humid. 22-30°C during day, 18-22°C at night. Occasional afternoon showers year-round. Cooler than Colombo due to elevation.

Popular Activities

Visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Attending a traditional Kandyan dance performance...

Top Attractions

  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
  • Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
  • Kandy Lake
  • Kandyan Cultural Centre (dance show)
  • Bahirawakanda Vihara (Giant Buddha statue)
  • Udawattakele Forest Sanctuary

Things To Do

  • Visit the Temple of the Tooth during the evening puja ceremony (around 6:30 PM) for a mystical atmosphere
  • Attend the daily Kandyan dance show at the cultural center
  • Spend a morning at the Royal Botanical Gardens — over 4,000 plant species
  • Walk through Udawattakele Forest Sanctuary for a peaceful nature escape
  • Climb to the Bahirawakanda Giant Buddha for panoramic city views
  • Explore the local market for spices, fresh produce, and souvenirs

Travel Tips

The Temple of the Tooth puja ceremonies happen at 5:30 AM, 9:00 AM, and 6:30 PM — the evening ceremony is the most popular

The Esala Perahera in July/August is the biggest event — book accommodation 6-12 months in advance

The train from Colombo to Kandy is scenic but often fully booked — reserve 2-3 days ahead

First class observation car on the train offers the best views

Beware of tuk-tuk drivers offering "free" gem shop visits — these are commission-based tourist traps

The Royal Botanical Gardens are best visited in the morning before the heat and tour buses arrive

Location Map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Esala Perahera?
The Esala Perahera is Sri Lanka's most important cultural festival, held annually in Kandy over 10 nights in July or August. It features a procession of elaborately decorated elephants, traditional Kandyan dancers, fire dancers, drummers, and flag bearers escorting the sacred tooth relic casket through the streets. It draws hundreds of thousands of spectators from around the world.
Is Kandy worth visiting?
Absolutely. Kandy is one of Sri Lanka's must-visit destinations, offering a unique combination of spiritual significance, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. As the last capital of the Sinhalese kings and home to the most sacred Buddhist relic, it provides an authentic cultural experience that no other Sri Lankan city can match.
How many days do I need in Kandy?
Two to three days is ideal. One day for the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake, and the cultural show. A second day for the Royal Botanical Gardens and Udawattakele Sanctuary. If visiting during the Esala Perahera, plan at least 3-4 days to fully experience the festival.