Written by Finn Weber, Karen Price, Chamara Perera
30/07/2025
Gihan Bandara, Pexels
Kandy, nestled amidst Sri Lanka's central highlands, is a culturally significant and picturesque city. It offers a rich blend of history, spiritual sites, and natural beauty, making it a key destination for those exploring the island's heritage and landscapes.
While Kandy does not have an extensive nightlife with large clubs, there are areas where visitors can socialize. "Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar and Restaurant" is noted as a place for a relaxed evening. The city center, particularly around Kandy Lake, and hotels in the area also serve as gathering points for tourists. Local markets and cultural performances are vibrant spaces that naturally bring people together.
Top 6 Things to do in Kandy
Kandy offers a mix of historical and cultural exploration, significant spiritual sites, and opportunities to appreciate natural beauty, providing both serene experiences and insights into local traditions.
1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a deeply revered Buddhist temple, housing a sacred tooth relic believed to belong to Lord Buddha. Visitors can experience the spiritual ambiance and appreciate the intricate architecture of the temple complex. Daily rituals (pujas) take place at 6:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 6:30 PM. It is essential to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and to remove shoes before entering.
Cost: Approximately 2000 LKR for foreign adults. Tickets are available from machines at the entrance.
Transport: The temple is centrally located by Kandy Lake and is easily accessible by walking from most parts of Kandy city center.
2. Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
Spanning over 147 acres, these expansive gardens showcase a diverse collection of over 4000 plant species, including orchids, spices, and towering palm trees. It serves as a peaceful escape from the city's bustle, ideal for leisurely strolls amidst lush greenery and beautiful landscapes.
Cost: Approximately 3000-3540 LKR for foreign adults.
Transport: Located about 5 km west of Kandy. A tuk-tuk ride from the city center will take around 15-20 minutes and costs approximately 300-500 LKR. Taxis are also available.
3. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
This colossal white Buddha statue, standing 88 feet tall, offers panoramic views of Kandy city, Kandy Lake, and the surrounding hills. It is a serene spot, particularly around sunset, providing a peaceful atmosphere and excellent photographic opportunities.
Cost: Approximately 250 LKR for foreigners.
Transport: Located about 1.5-2 km from Kandy city center. A tuk-tuk ride is a short journey up the hill, costing around 200-300 LKR. Visitors can also walk, though the path is steep.
4. Kandyan Cultural Dance Show
Experience the vibrant traditions of Sri Lankan culture through captivating Kandyan dance performances. These shows feature traditional drumming, colorful costumes, and athletic movements, often concluding with a fire-walking display. It offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient rituals and folklore.
Cost: Tickets are approximately 638 LKR (around 7-8 USD). It is advisable to confirm prices in advance.
Transport: Shows are typically held daily at 5:00 PM near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, making them easily accessible by walking or a short tuk-tuk ride from the city center.
5. Tea Factory Visit and Plantation
Kandy is nestled amidst lush tea plantations, and a visit to a tea factory offers insight into the process of Ceylon tea production, from tea plucking in the fields to tasting the world-renowned beverage. These tours often provide a chance to walk through the scenic tea estates.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the specific factory and whether it is part of a guided tour. Some tours include all entrance tickets.
Transport: Tea factories are generally located in the surrounding hills outside the immediate city center. This would typically require a taxi or tuk-tuk. A full-day tuk-tuk tour including a tea factory visit might cost around 1,773 LKR (approx. 20 USD) for a group, with prices varying based on negotiation and distance.
6. Kandy Lake Walk and City Viewpoint
Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda (Sea of Milk), is a central feature of the city, providing a tranquil setting for a leisurely walk along its perimeter. The lake offers picturesque views, especially with the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and surrounding hills in the background. A dedicated Kandy View Point offers panoramic vistas of the entire city and its iconic landmarks.
Cost: Free to walk around Kandy Lake. Access to specific viewpoints might be free or a minimal charge depending on the location.
Transport: Kandy Lake is in the city center and is easily walkable. The Kandy View Point is a short uphill walk or tuk-tuk ride from the city center.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
