Kandy
Kandy - Vacation Briefing
Kandy, Sri Lanka is a city nestled in the hills surrounded by lush greenery. Known as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, it offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Explore the majestic Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and delve into the rich Buddhist culture. Take a stroll around the tranquil Kandy Lake or visit the picturesque Royal Botanical Gardens. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local markets and indulge in delectable Sri Lankan cuisine. With its pleasant climate and breathtaking landscapes, Kandy is a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and cultural immersion.
Popular Sights in Kandy
Things to do during your Kandy vacation
Kandy is a historic city located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is known for its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and religious significance. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Kandy, ranging from exploring ancient temples to scenic hikes and experiencing the local cuisine. Here are some popular things to do in Kandy:
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth: One of the most important Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, the Temple of the Tooth houses a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
- Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens: Spread over 147 acres, the Royal Botanical Gardens showcase a stunning collection of rare plants, orchids, and giant bamboo groves.
- Take a stroll around Kandy Lake: The serene Kandy Lake, also known as Bogambara Lake, offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely walk or a peaceful boat ride.
- Admire the architecture of the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue: Climb to the top of this iconic 88-feet tall Buddha statue for breathtaking panoramic views of Kandy.
- Experience traditional Sri Lankan dance at the Kandyan Cultural Centre: Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditional dance performances and get a taste of Kandyan culture.
- Visit the Peradeniya Railway Station: Marvel at the colonial architecture of this historic railway station and witness the arrival and departure of elegant steam trains.
- Go on a hike to Hanthana Mountain Range: Embark on a rewarding trek through the beautiful Hanthana Mountain Range, known for its lush greenery and breathtaking views.
- Enjoy a boat ride in the Madu Ganga River: Cruise along the scenic Madu Ganga River, surrounded by mangroves and dotted with small islands, and discover its rich biodiversity.
- Visit the Ceylon Tea Museum: Learn about the history and production of Sri Lanka's world-famous tea industry at the Ceylon Tea Museum, housed in a former tea factory.
- Indulge in a traditional Sri Lankan Ayurvedic massage: Relax and rejuvenate with a soothing Ayurvedic massage, a traditional healing therapy that uses natural herbs and oils.
- Try traditional Sri Lankan cuisine at local restaurants: Savor the flavors of authentic Sri Lankan dishes, such as hoppers, kottu roti, and string hoppers, at the city's local eateries.
Why you should visit Kandy
Kandy, Sri Lanka is a highly desirable destination with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.
While Kandy generally has a decent safety record, it's important to stay cautious and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Kandy is a cultural hub, featuring ancient temples, vibrant festivals like Esala Perahera, and a rich historical background. The local cuisine is also worth exploring.
Kandy is not known for its vibrant nightlife scene. There are limited options for entertainment after dark.
While Kandy may not be an adrenaline junkie's dream, it still offers opportunities for adventure activities like hiking and exploring the picturesque Knuckles Mountain Range nearby.
Kandy offers a tranquil and serene environment. It's surrounded by lush greenery and offers beautiful vistas. However, it's not primarily known for its beaches or lakes.
Best time to visit Kandy
The best time to travel to Kandy, Sri Lanka is from December to March. These months offer pleasant weather, with warm temperatures and little rain. It is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. However, if you prefer less crowded and more affordable travel, consider visiting between April and November, when the weather is still favorable but tourist numbers are lower.
A guide To your first day of Kandy vacation
morning
- Start your morning with a visit to the stunning Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the beautiful architecture and religious artifacts.
- Take a leisurely stroll around the serene Kandy Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
afternoon
- Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, just outside Kandy, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the wide variety of plants and flowers.
- Explore the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, a lush forest reserve right in the heart of Kandy, and go for a nature walk to spot birds and wildlife.
evening
- Witness a traditional Kandyan dance performance, showcasing the vibrant and dynamic culture of Sri Lanka.
- Experience the mesmerizing sunset view from the Bahirawakanda Temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
night
- Take a leisurely walk through the lively Kandy Market and indulge in some shopping for local crafts, spices, and souvenirs.
- Enjoy a delicious traditional Sri Lankan dinner at one of the many local restaurants, and savor the flavors of the authentic cuisine.
How to get to Kandy
By Plane
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo is the main gateway to Sri Lanka, offering numerous international flights. From there, travelers can easily reach Kandy via a scenic 3-hour train ride or a 3.5-hour drive. Alternatively, for a faster option, there are also domestic flights available from Colombo to the nearby Polgolla Reservoir Airport, a short drive from Kandy.
By other means
Kandy is well-connected by train and bus services within Sri Lanka. The Kandy Railway Station acts as a central hub for train travel to various cities in the country, including Colombo and Jaffna. Additionally, bus services operate from major towns and cities across Sri Lanka, providing an affordable and convenient way to reach Kandy. Travelers can enjoy the scenic landscapes and immerse themselves in the local culture during their journey.
Tips for Booking Your Trip
Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.
Flights: How to Score the Best Deal
First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.
Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot
For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.
Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!
Flights
Accommodation
Best for travelers who are ...
Cultural enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking spiritual experiences
How long to stay in Kandy?
We recommend spending 2-3 days in Kandy to explore the main attractions and experience the peaceful atmosphere.
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