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Kandy

["Nestled amidst the misty hills of Sri Lanka's central highlands, Kandy is the island's cultural capital, renowned for housing the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, the serene Kandy Lake, and lush botanical gardens, representing the last bastion of the ancient Sinhala kings."]

James O'Connor
Written byJames O'Connor
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Best Time To Visit Kandy

Kandy Esala Perahera

5th August

The Kandy Esala Perahera is one of Asia's most spectacular and grand Buddhist festivals, featuring a magnificent procession of traditional dancers, drummers, and elaborately decorated elephants.

  • This ten-day festival pays homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha.
  • Thousands of performers in traditional costumes parade through the streets.
  • The highlight is the majestic tusker carrying the golden casket of the relic.

FESTIVAL AND EVENTS

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Hotels in Kandy

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Cozy Beach Hostel

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Budget-friendly accommodation with shared facilities and beach access for the perfect getaway.

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Backpacker's Paradise, Arambol

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Clean dorms and private rooms near the beach with communal kitchen and lounge area.

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Budget Beach Resort, Calangute

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Economic Stay, Baga

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Simple and clean accommodation near nightlife and beach activities.

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Budget Beachside Cottage, Morjim

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Charming cottage steps from the beach with basic amenities and peaceful surroundings.

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Affordable Guesthouse, Vagator

Affordable Guesthouse, Vagator

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Clean rooms with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, close to famous beach clubs and restaurants.

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Budget Stay, Candolim

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Simple accommodation with breakfast included, walking distance to beach and local markets.

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Economical Beach Lodge, Palolem

Economical Beach Lodge, Palolem

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Cozy lodge with garden views, bicycle rentals, and easy access to pristine beaches.

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Visit Kandy: A Guide to Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle Heart

Overview of Kandy

Kandy sits in the misty hills of Sri Lanka. It is a top city for culture. The city has a big temple and a calm lake.


Entry Details and Timing for Kandy

Most shops in Kandy open around 9 AM. They close late in the evening. You will need a few days to see the whole city.


What To Expect at Kandy?

You will find many great things to do in Kandy. You can walk by the lake. You can also try local food from small shops. The streets are busy with people and tuk-tuks.

People in Kandy are very nice. They will often smile at you. The air feels fresh and cool from the hills. It is a good place to relax and walk.


History of Kandy

The city of Kandy was the last royal capital. It was the home of the Sinhala kings for a long time. The city fell to the British in 1815. It is special today because it holds a sacred relic.


Why Kandy is Known For
  • Kandy is famous for its rich culture and history.
  • It is home to the famous Esala Perahera festival.
  • The city has cool weather all year long.
  • It is a key part of the country's Cultural Triangle.

More About Kandy Scenery

The city of Kandy is built around a large lake. Green hills surround the entire area. The sky is often misty in the morning.

At night, lights from homes dot the hills. The temple also lights up in a soft glow. It is a very calm and pretty sight to see.


Architecture and Style of Kandy

The buildings in Kandy show a unique style. This style is called Kandyan architecture. You can see it in the wooden pillars and roofs. The main temple is a great example of this design. Many homes also have sloped roofs to handle the rain.


Best Time to Visit Kandy

The best time to visit Kandy is from December to April. The weather is dry and sunny then. Try to visit on a weekday to avoid big crowds. July and August are busy due to the big festival.


How to Reach Kandy

You can reach Kandy by train from Colombo. The train ride is very scenic and popular. Many people use trains for their Kandy Sri Lanka travel. You can also book central province tours which often include a car or bus. The main bus station is in the city center.


Travel Tips for Visiting Kandy
  • Wear comfortable shoes
  • Carry water bottles
  • Follow the local rules
  • Stay safe at the spot
  • Respect the Kandy culture
  • Bring good clothes
  • Do not bring banned items

Top Attractions In or Near Kandy
  1. Temple of the Tooth Relic: This spot is in Kandy and has a sacred tooth of the Buddha.
  2. Kandy Lake: This spot is near Kandy and has a nice path for walking.
  3. Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya: This spot is near Kandy and has huge trees and flowers.
  4. Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue: This spot is in Kandy and has a giant white Buddha statue.
  5. Kandy View Point: This spot is in Kandy and has a full view of the city.
  6. Udawatta Kele Sanctuary: This spot is in Kandy and has a forest with birds and monkeys.

Your Questions, Answered

Kandy is most famous for housing the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism. It's also renowned for the spectacular Esala Perahera festival.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore the main attractions of Kandy, including the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, and to experience the local culture and cuisine at a comfortable pace.
Yes, Kandy is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, like any popular destination, it's wise to take standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, safeguarding your belongings, and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
The best way to get around Kandy is by using tuk-tuks (three-wheelers) for short distances. For longer trips or more comfort, you can hire a car with a driver. Walking is also a great way to explore the city center around Kandy Lake.
When visiting the Temple of the Tooth or other religious sites, you must dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. It is also required to remove your shoes and hat before entering the temple premises.
Absolutely. Kandy is a gateway to Sri Lanka's hill country, famous for its tea plantations. You can take a day trip to nearby estates like the Giragama Tea Plantation or travel a bit further to Nuwara Eliya to see vast, scenic tea fields.
You must try Sri Lankan rice and curry, which offers a variety of flavorful dishes. Also, try 'kottu roti' (a chopped flatbread dish), hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes), and local sweets like 'kavum' and 'kokis', especially during festive seasons.

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