Visit Kandy: Travel Guide to Sri Lanka

Kandy is a beautiful city located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, Kandy is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. Kandy has a rich history and was the last capital of the ancient kings’ era of Sri Lanka. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Kandy was also the centre of the Kandyan Kingdom, which resisted the Portuguese and Dutch colonial rule in Sri Lanka.

If you are planning a trip to Kandy, Sri Lanka, here are some travel tips that can help you make the most of your visit:

• Plan your visit around the weather: The best time to visit Kandy is during the months of December to April, which is the dry season. The monsoon season starts in May and lasts until November, which can lead to heavy rainfall and landslides.
• Dress appropriately: As Kandy is a culturally rich city, it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites such as the Temple of the Tooth. Both men and women are expected to cover their shoulders and knees when entering these sites.

• Book your accommodation in advance: Kandy is a popular tourist destination, and accommodation can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance to ensure you have a comfortable stay.
• Try the local cuisine: Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious and unique. Kandy is known for its spicy curries, seafood dishes, and sweetmeats. Don’t be afraid to try some of the local cuisine during your visit.
• Take a tuk-tuk or walk: Kandy’s streets can be narrow and congested, making it difficult to navigate by car. Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in the city and are readily available. Alternatively, you can also explore the city on foot to get a closer look at its architecture and culture.

• Respect local customs and traditions: Sri Lanka is a culturally rich country, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions during your visit. For example, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering a home or temple.
• Be prepared for hilly terrain: Kandy is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, and the city has hilly terrain. If you plan on exploring the city on foot, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uphill climbs.

How to get to Kandy

There are several ways to get to Kandy, Sri Lanka, depending on where you are starting from:

• By air: The nearest international airport to Kandy is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, which is about 100 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a car to drive to Kandy.
• By train: Sri Lanka’s railway system is extensive, and there are several trains that run to Kandy from other parts of the country. The journey from Colombo takes about 3-4 hours and of

When to Visit Kandy

The best time to visit Kandy is during the months of December to April, which is the dry season. The weather is pleasant during this time, and you can enjoy the city’s attractions without any rain interruptions. The monsoon season starts in May and lasts until November.

How to Get Around Kandy

You can use tuk-tuks, taxis, or public buses to get around in Kandy. Tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transportation and are readily available in the city. Taxis are also available, and you can book them through your hotel or a taxi service. Public buses are cheap but can be crowded and uncomfortable during peak hours.

Best Things to Do and Best Places To Visit in Kandy

Here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in Kandy:

• Temple of the Tooth: The Temple of the Tooth is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most important Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. It houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year.
• Royal Botanical Gardens: The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya is a beautiful garden spread over 147 acres. It has over 4000 species of plants, including orchids, palm trees, and medicinal plants.
• Kandy Lake: Kandy Lake is a picturesque lake located in the heart of the city. It was built in 1807 by King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha and is a popular spot for picnics and boat rides.

• Bahirawakanda Temple: The Bahirawakanda Temple is known for its giant Buddha statue, which stands at 88 feet tall. The temple offers panoramic views of Kandy city.
• Udawatta Kele Sanctuary: The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a nature reserve located on a hill behind the Temple of the Tooth. It is home to many species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

Amazing Viewpoints in Kandy