City scores
Practical info
Kandy is home to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, a lush expanse with over 4,000 species of plants. Among its highlights, the Orchid House stands out with its extensive collection of orchids in every imaginable hue. The Gardens also house a massive Javan fig tree, offering ample shade and a sense of tranquility amid the tropical flora. The Udawattakele Forest Reserve provides a natural escape just a short walk from the city center. This historic sanctuary once served as a royal forest park and now offers trails that lead to vantage points overlooking Kandy Lake. The reserve is a haven for bird watchers, with species like the Layard's parakeet and the Sri Lanka hanging parrot often sighted. Kandy's culinary scene is rooted in local flavors, with the Kandyan rice and curry at the Devon Restaurant on Dalada Vidiya being a staple. The dish features a variety of curries, including jackfruit and eggplant, served with rice and sambol, embodying the region's rich culinary heritage.
Best time to visit
December through March — cooler temperatures and less rainfall, ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.
Month by month
The Kandy Esala Perahera festival takes place, drawing large crowds for the spectacular procession.
Warm and dry weather continues, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring cultural sites.
End of the dry season, with comfortable temperatures for sightseeing before the rains start.
Intermittent rains begin, but mornings remain pleasant for exploring Kandy's temples and gardens.
The start of the monsoon season brings heavier rains, especially in the afternoons.
Monsoon rains continue, making indoor attractions like museums and temples more appealing.
Rains taper off, and the city begins preparations for the annual Esala Perahera.
Esala Perahera draws visitors with its elaborate processions and cultural displays.
Post-festival calm returns, with occasional rains and fewer tourists.
Rainy weather persists, but the lush landscapes make for scenic views around the city.
Monsoon season ends, leaving the city fresh and green as tourism begins to pick up again.
Cooler and drier conditions return, with an influx of visitors for the holiday season.
Highlights
- ✦Temple of the Tooth — Houses the sacred tooth relic of Buddha, an important symbol of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
- ✦Kandy Lake — Built by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1807, it's a scenic spot for a leisurely walk in the city center.
- ✦Ceylon Tea Museum — Located in an old tea factory, it offers insights into Sri Lanka's tea heritage and a panoramic view from its top floor.
- ✦Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue — A colossal statue offering panoramic views of Kandy from its hilltop location.
- ✦Royal Palace of Kandy — Former residence of the Sinhalese monarchy, showcasing traditional Kandyan architecture.
Hidden gems
Practical tips
- ·Consider using tuk-tuks for short distances; they're convenient and often faster than taxis in traffic.
- ·Visit the Temple of the Tooth during the early morning puja ceremony for a more immersive experience.
- ·Purchase train tickets in advance if traveling to or from Kandy, especially during peak seasons.
- ·Dress modestly when visiting religious sites — shoulders and knees should be covered.
Budget estimate
₨8,000–12,000 LKR / day (mid-range)
