Kandy, Sri Lanka - Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic overlooking Kandy Lake surrounded by lush green hills
Central Province, Sri Lanka

Kandy, Sri Lanka

The cultural capital of Sri Lanka, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth and stunning botanical gardens.

About Kandy - Sri Lanka's Cultural Capital

Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, nestled amidst lush hills and built around a scenic lake. As the last capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka, the city retains a regal atmosphere and is steeped in history and tradition.

The crown jewel of Kandy is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most sacred places of worship in the Buddhist world. Beyond the temple, Kandy offers beautiful botanical gardens, traditional cultural dances, and is the starting point for the famous scenic train ride to Ella.

Key Highlights of Kandy

  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
  • Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
  • Kandy Lake Walk
  • Traditional Kandyan Dance Shows
  • Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
  • Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

Kandy Travel Guides & Blog Posts

Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens: A Green Escape from Kandy
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Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens: A Green Escape from Kandy

The Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya are six kilometres from central Kandy and worth half a day of anyone's trip. This guide covers what's inside, the best areas to explore, and exactly how to plan the visit.

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The Temple of the Tooth Relic: What to Expect When You Visit

The Temple of the Tooth Relic: What to Expect When You Visit

Everything you need to know before visiting Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy, the sacred Buddhist temple that houses one of the most revered relics in Asia.

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Nuwara Eliya Tea Country: Where Sri Lanka's Famous Tea Begins

Nuwara Eliya Tea Country: Where Sri Lanka's Famous Tea Begins

Nuwara Eliya sits at nearly 1,900 metres and produces Sri Lanka's most delicate highland teas. A guide to what makes its tea distinct, what to do at a tea estate, and how it compares to Ella for tea experiences.

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Experiencing the Kandy Esala Perahera: A Complete Guide

Experiencing the Kandy Esala Perahera: A Complete Guide

A complete guide to Sri Lanka's most spectacular cultural festival, featuring adorned elephants, fire dancers, and ancient traditions.

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The Famous Kandy to Ella Train Journey: A Complete Guide

The Famous Kandy to Ella Train Journey: A Complete Guide

How to book tickets, which side to sit on, and what to expect on one of the world's most beautiful train rides.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Kandy

Everything you need to know before visiting Kandy, Sri Lanka.

What is Kandy famous for in Sri Lanka?
Kandy is famous as Sri Lanka's cultural capital, home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in the world. The city is also renowned for its scenic lake, the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, traditional Kandyan dance performances, and the spectacular Esala Perahera festival.
How do I get to Kandy from Colombo?
You can reach Kandy from Colombo by train (approximately 2.5-3.5 hours, with stunning views), by bus (around 3 hours via the expressway), or by hiring a private car or driver (approximately 3 hours). The train journey through the hill country is particularly scenic and highly recommended.
What is the best time to visit Kandy?
Kandy can be visited year-round, but the best weather is typically from January to April and July to September. If you want to witness the Esala Perahera - one of Asia's grandest Buddhist festivals - plan your visit for July or August. Pack a light jacket as evenings can be cool in the hills.
How many days should I spend in Kandy?
We recommend 2 to 3 days. With one day you can visit the Temple of the Tooth and walk around the lake. Two days lets you add the Botanical Gardens and a Kandyan dance show. Three days gives you time for Udawattakele Forest, Bahirawakanda Buddha statue, and a tea plantation visit nearby.
What is the Esala Perahera festival?
The Esala Perahera is one of the oldest and grandest Buddhist festivals in Asia, held annually in Kandy during July or August. It features a spectacular procession of elaborately decorated elephants, fire dancers, whip crackers, and traditional musicians parading through the streets for 10 consecutive nights. The sacred tooth relic is carried in a golden casket atop a majestic tusker elephant.
Can I take the scenic train from Kandy to Ella?
Yes! The Kandy to Ella train ride is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world. The 6-7 hour journey winds through misty mountains, pine forests, tea estates, and local villages. We highly recommend booking reserved seats in advance as this route is extremely popular.
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