Kandy

Best Things to do & Best Places To See in Kandy. Sri Lanka. 

Kandy is a vibrant city steeped in culture and natural beauty. Begin your journey at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a revered Buddhist temple that houses a tooth of the Buddha and is the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka. Take a peaceful stroll around Kandy Lake, a man-made lake with scenic surroundings ideal for a relaxing walk. Explore the bustling Kandy Market (Kandy Central Market) for local produce, spices, and souvenirs. Don’t miss a captivating Cultural Show featuring traditional Kandyan dance and music. Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, famous for its exotic flora and massive palm avenues. For a nature escape, walk around the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, a lush forest reserve home to wildlife and rare birds. Enjoy stunning city views from the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue, a massive white Buddha on a hilltop. Adventure seekers can trek the Knuckles Mountain Range, known for its rugged trails, waterfalls, and biodiversity. The Lankatilaka Temple, built on a rock outcrop, combines Buddhist and Hindu architecture, while the nearby Gadaladeniya Temple showcases South Indian-inspired stone carvings. Admire intricate woodwork at Embekke Devalaya, a temple dedicated to the god of craft. Visit the lesser-known but serene Medawala Rajamaha Viharaya, perfect for quiet reflection. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the scenic Victoria Golf and Country Resort nestled amidst hills and a reservoir. Learn about Sri Lanka’s tea legacy at the Ceylon Tea Museum, located in a former tea factory in Hanthana. Hike through the Hanthana Mountain Range for panoramic views and misty forests. Enjoy various trekking and hiking trails in Kandy, suitable for all levels and filled with natural beauty. Cycling in Kandy is another great way to explore the countryside and historic sites. Visit tea plantations and factories to see how world-renowned Ceylon tea is grown and processed. Take a short trip to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can observe rescued elephants up close. Discover Sri Lanka’s gem heritage at the Gem Museums in Kandy, featuring displays of rare and precious stones. Watch artisans at work in batik factories, producing vibrant hand-dyed fabrics. Explore wood carving workshops for beautifully crafted wooden items. Finally, indulge in shopping in Kandy, with a variety of local crafts, clothing, and souvenirs to take home. 

1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) - A UNESCO World Heritage site housing Buddha’s sacred tooth. It’s the most important religious site in Sri Lanka for Buddhists. The temple complex is rich in history, rituals, and architecture.

2. Explore Kandy Lake - A serene, man-made lake in the heart of Kandy, ideal for a peaceful walk. Created by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1807. Offers great views of the temple and surrounding hills.

3. Wander Around Kandy Market (Kandy Central Market) - A vibrant local market filled with spices, fruits, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Perfect for experiencing local life and flavors. Great place to buy authentic Sri Lankan products.

4. Cultural Show - Experience traditional Kandyan dance and drumming performances. Shows often include fire walking and mask dances. A lively showcase of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

5. Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya - Home to over 4,000 plant species including orchids, palms, and medicinal plants. Beautifully landscaped gardens spanning 147 acres. A paradise for botany lovers and nature enthusiasts.

6. Walk Around the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary - A forest reserve just above the city, ideal for birdwatching and nature walks. Offers peaceful trails and a cool, shady retreat from city life. Once reserved for Kandyan royalty.

7. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue - A towering white Buddha statue overlooking Kandy. The hilltop location offers panoramic city views. Visitors can climb to the base for even better vistas.

8. Knuckles Mountain Range - A UNESCO-listed biodiversity hotspot ideal for trekking and eco-tourism. Known for its misty peaks, waterfalls, and endemic flora and fauna. Offers a cooler climate and scenic trails.

9. Lankatilaka Temple - A historic temple built in the 14th century with Kandyan and Dravidian architecture. Set on a rock with panoramic views of the countryside. Features ancient frescoes, inscriptions, and a sacred Bodhi tree.

10. Gadaladeniya Temple - A 14th-century Buddhist temple influenced by South Indian architectural styles. Made primarily of stone with intricate carvings and artwork. Located on a small hill with scenic surroundings.

11. Embekke Devalaya - Famous for its ornate wooden carvings and ancient construction. Dedicated to the Hindu god Kataragama. Features some of the finest woodwork in Sri Lanka.

12. Medawala Rajamaha Viharaya - A peaceful, less-touristy Buddhist temple surrounded by nature.
    Known for its quiet ambiance and ancient structures. Ideal for spiritual reflection and meditation.

13. Victoria Golf and Country Resort - A world-class golf course set amid the scenic Victoria Reservoir.
    Offers 18 holes, luxurious facilities, and stunning landscapes. Great for both amateurs and experienced golfers.

14. Tea Museum - Located in a restored tea factory in Hanthana. Exhibits the history of tea production in Sri Lanka. Includes vintage machinery, tastings, and beautiful views.

15. Hanthana Mountain Range - A scenic range ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. Known for its lush greenery and misty trails. Offers panoramic views over Kandy and surrounding hills.

16. Trekking & Hiking in Kandy - Numerous trails for all skill levels through forests, hills, and tea estates.
    Popular routes include Knuckles and Hanthana ranges. An excellent way to explore Kandy’s natural beauty.

17. Cycling in Kandy - Enjoy cycling through countryside roads, plantations, and cultural sites.
    Routes range from relaxed to challenging. A refreshing and eco-friendly way to see the area.

18. Tea Plantations and Factories - Visit working tea estates to learn about tea cultivation and processing.
    Enjoy scenic views of rolling green hills. Tasting sessions available at most locations.

19. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage - A sanctuary for orphaned and injured elephants. Visitors can watch feeding and bathing sessions in the river. Located about an hour from Kandy.

20. Gem Museums in Kandy - Learn about Sri Lanka’s famous gem industry and see local stones.
    Displays include sapphires, rubies, and semi-precious gems. Some museums offer live gem-cutting demonstrations.

21. Batik Factories in Kandy - See traditional batik-making processes using wax and dye. Watch artisans create colorful, handmade designs. Unique fabrics make for excellent souvenirs.

22. Wood Carving in Kandy - Visit workshops where skilled artisans create detailed woodwork.
    Items range from small souvenirs to large furniture pieces. Reflects a centuries-old Kandyan craft tradition.

23. Shopping in Kandy - A mix of modern stores and traditional markets. Great for spices, handicrafts, tea, and clothing. Popular spots include Kandy City Centre and local artisan shops.