About Kandy
The last capital of the ancient kings' era, Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled among misty hills. Home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the beautiful Kandy Lake, it's the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.
History & context
Founded as a royal capital in the late 15th century by King Sena Sammatha Wickramabahu, Kandy served as the last independent kingdom of Sri Lanka until it fell to the British in 1815, a remarkable 300-year resistance to European powers. The city is most famous for the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic), which houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 as part of the Sacred City of Kandy.
Climate & best time
Pleasant hill country climate with temperatures between 19°C and 28°C. Rainfall is spread throughout the year with heavier rains from October to January.
Perfect weather for exploring the city and surrounding hill country. The Esala Perahera festival in July/August is spectacular.
Misty mornings create a magical atmosphere. The botanical gardens are at their most beautiful.
Best months to visit
Top experiences
Top Attractions8
Worth the detour1
Hidden spots a short drive away, easy to add as a side trip from here.
25 km awayGood to know15
- Dress modestly when visiting temples, shoulders and knees should be covered
- Remove shoes and hats before entering temple grounds; stone floors can become very hot during midday
- Photography may be restricted inside sacred temple areas, and posing with your back facing Buddha statues is considered disrespectful
- Carry a light umbrella or rain jacket, Kandy weather can change quickly, especially in the afternoon
- Monkeys around forested and lake areas can grab visible food or loose items, so keep bags closed
- Sunrise and early morning are usually the best times to enjoy cooler weather and clearer views around Kandy
- Local food can be spicier than many travelers expect, ask for "less spicy" if needed
- Try authentic Sri Lankan dishes like kottu, rice and curry, hoppers, and fresh tropical fruits while in Kandy
- Wear comfortable shoes, many attractions include stairs, uneven paths, and uphill walking
- Respect local religious customs and keep noise low around temples and prayer areas
- At the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, visitors may hear traditional drumming ceremonies held several times a day
- Evening walks around Kandy Lake are popular for the cooler atmosphere and scenic city views
- Keep some cash with you for small cafés, local snacks, and street-side shops, as smaller places may not accept cards
- Sri Lankan tea served in the hill country is often much stronger than tourists expect, many travelers recommend trying it without sugar first
- If visiting viewpoints or mountain areas around Kandy, expect cooler temperatures than coastal parts of Sri Lanka
Common questions5
Yes. Kandy is a must-visit cultural destination known for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, scenic lake views, traditional experiences, and Sri Lankan history.
Popular things to do in Kandy include visiting the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake, Royal Botanical Gardens, a gem museum, and watching a traditional Kandyan dance performance.
Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees when entering the Temple of the Tooth. Comfortable clothing is recommended for exploring Kandy.
Yes. The Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya is worth visiting for its beautiful landscapes, tropical plants, palm avenues, and relaxing atmosphere.
Kandy can be visited year-round, with mornings usually best for sightseeing. July and August are popular because of the famous Kandy Esala Perahera festival.