Spirit of the City
Kandy is more than just a city; it's the very soul of Sri Lanka, a place where the past breathes in the present. Nestled amidst verdant hills, life here revolves around the serene Kandy Lake, a mirror to the sky and the city's tranquil heart. We, the locals, don't just see a body of water; we see a repository of legends, a place for quiet contemplation as the sun dips below the hills, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. The air in Kandy is thick with the fragrance of frangipani and the faint, sweet smell of temple incense, a constant reminder of the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, the spiritual epicenter of the nation. Beyond the well-trodden paths of tourists, Kandy is a city of hidden alleyways, bustling with the chatter of vendors and the aroma of freshly brewed Ceylon tea. It's a place where ancient traditions of Kandyan dance and music are not just preserved but are a vibrant part of our daily lives, a testament to a kingdom that resisted colonial rule for centuries. To live in Kandy is to be part of a living heritage, to walk in the footsteps of kings, and to find beauty not just in the grand monuments but in the simple, everyday moments that define our resilient and graceful city.
Top Landmarks (8)
Temple of the Tooth Relic
The spiritual heart of Sri Lanka, housing a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. A local secret is the Aluth Maligawa, a newer shrine room with a collection of Buddha statues from various Asian countries, often missed by the crowds.
Kandy Lake
An artificial lake in the heart of the city, built in 1807. Locals know the best spot for a panoramic view is from the viewpoint on Rajapihilla Mawatha, especially at sunrise.
Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
A vast expanse of beautifully manicured gardens, home to a stunning collection of orchids. A hidden gem is the suspension bridge over the Mahaweli River, offering a thrilling walk and picturesque views.
Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
A giant white Buddha statue perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of Kandy. The real secret is the small, peaceful meditation area behind the statue, away from the main viewing platform.
Kandy View Point
A popular spot for tourists to get a bird's-eye view of the city and the lake. For a less crowded and equally stunning view, locals prefer the Arthur's Seat viewpoint, a short hike away.
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
A historic forest reserve on a hill-ridge in the city of Kandy. A hidden path leads to a secluded pond, known as the ‘Pond of the Golden Lotuses’, a place of serene beauty.
Kandy City Centre
A modern shopping mall with a variety of international and local brands. The secret is the rooftop food court, which offers not only a wide range of cuisines but also a surprisingly good view of the city.
National Museum of Kandy
Located next to the Temple of the Tooth, this museum houses artifacts from the Kandyan kingdom. A little-known fact is that the building itself was the Queen's Palace.
Kandy offers various transport options including an extensive bus network and train services connecting to major cities. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available for shorter distances, with tuk-tuk fares being quite affordable. Ride-sharing apps are also present, providing convenient alternatives for getting around the city.
Shopping Guide
Shopping in Kandy caters to diverse preferences, from modern retail at Kandy City Centre, which features various brands and a food court, to the bustling Kandy Market Hall for local goods, spices, and souvenirs. Temple Street is also a popular area for day-to-day needs and unique finds.
Events & Seasons
Duruthu Perahara
The Duruthu Perahara is a significant Buddhist procession commemorating the first visit of Lord Buddha to Sri Lanka. It features traditional dancers, drummers, and elephants.
Nawam Maha Perahera
Nawam Maha Perahera is a grand procession held in Colombo, but its significance is celebrated across Sri Lanka, including Kandy, marking the appointment of Buddhas chief disciples.
Kandy Festival of Arts
A celebration of Kandyan art, music, and dance, featuring performances by local and international artists. It's a vibrant showcase of the city's rich cultural heritage.
Sinhala and Tamil New Year
Celebrated in April, this is a time for family, feasting, and traditional games. It marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new year.
Vesak Poya
Commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha, this festival of lights sees the city adorned with colorful lanterns and pandals.
Poson Poya
Celebrating the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, this festival is marked by religious observances, processions, and the lighting of lanterns.
Kandy Esala Perahera
The Kandy Esala Perahera is a grand Buddhist festival honoring the Sacred Tooth Relic. It features elaborate processions with decorated elephants, dancers, and drummers.
Kandy Esala Perahera
A grand festival of lights and music, held annually to pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. It features a spectacular procession of dancers, drummers, and decorated elephants.
Kandy Cultural Dance Show
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka through traditional Kandyan dance performances. This show features vibrant costumes, rhythmic drumming, and captivating movements.
Deepavali Festival
Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by the Hindu community in Kandy with traditional rituals, colorful decorations, and delicious sweets. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Deepam is a Hindu festival of lights celebrated in November. Lamps are lit in homes and temples, creating a beautiful and spiritual atmosphere.
Christmas Celebrations
Christmas is celebrated by the Christian community in Kandy with church services, carols, and festive decorations. Families gather for special meals and exchange gifts.
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Videos about Kandy
Best Time to Visit
Monthly temperatures in °C
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | 28° | 30° | 31° | 31° | 30° | 29° | 28° | 28° | 28° | 28° | 28° | 27° |
| Low | 18° | 18° | 19° | 20° | 21° | 21° | 21° | 20° | 20° | 20° | 19° | 19° |
Airports & Lounges
City airports and available lounges
Bandaranaike International Airport
CMB💳 Lounge Access Programs
Safety & Emergency
For emergencies in Kandy, dial 119 for police and 110 for ambulance and fire services. The main public hospital is the National Hospital Kandy. Visitors are advised to know the contact information for their respective embassy or consulate in Sri Lanka.