Written by Finn Weber, Karen Price, Chamara Perera
30/07/2025
Gihan Bandara, Pexels
Kandy's bar and drinking scene offers a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration rather than a lively party experience.
Entertainment and Music:
Kandy's local music and entertainment scene is centered around its rich cultural heritage, offering a more relaxed atmosphere compared to larger cities, with select venues providing live music and opportunities to witness traditional performances.
For live music, the Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar and Restaurant is known to feature live bands and DJs, providing a vibrant setting with city views. The HQ Pub also offers a relaxed environment with live music.
1. Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar & Restaurant
Type: Lounge Bar & Restaurant
Perched on a hilltop, this venue provides breathtaking panoramic views of Kandy city, especially at sunset. The atmosphere is consistently relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect spot to unwind with a varied selection of local and international beverages. It often features live music, adding to its comfortable and 'chilled-out' ambiance.
Getting There: Located on Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, it is a short tuk-tuk ride from the city center. Tuk-tuks are widely available, and fares are negotiable based on distance.
2. Royal Bar & Hotel Restaurant
Type: Colonial Pub & Restaurant
Stepping into the Royal Bar & Hotel feels like a journey back in time, with its preserved colonial charm and historic decor. The hotel's bar offers a refined yet relaxed setting, perfect for enjoying cocktails or local beers on its picturesque outdoor terrace. It's an excellent choice for a quiet evening that blends history with a touch of elegance.
Getting There: Situated on King's Street, it is centrally located and typically within walking distance from major Kandy attractions like Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Tuk-tuks are an option for those preferring not to walk.
3. Tavern 29 Rooftop Bar
Type: Rooftop Bar & Restaurant
Offering superb views of the Mahaweli River, Tavern 29 provides a serene setting ideal for couples or those seeking a peaceful evening. The interior has a retro feel, complementing the innovative cocktails and a menu that includes Korean Barbeque. While offering a relaxed vibe, some evenings may feature acoustic, calypso, or DJ music.
Getting There: Found on Deveni Rajasinghe Mawatha, a tuk-tuk is the most convenient way to reach this venue from the central areas of Kandy. Fares will vary based on the exact distance.
4. The Pub
Type: Traditional Pub
Located near Kandy Lake, The Pub offers a straightforward and casual atmosphere, popular with both locals and visitors. It is a no-frills option for those looking to enjoy affordable drinks in a relaxed setting. It’s a good spot to experience a more local pub scene.
Getting There: The Pub is located on Dalada Veediya, making it easily accessible and within walking distance of Kandy Lake and other central city points.
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.
