Sacred City of Kandy
Kandy District, Central Province (Hill Country)
Comprehensive Overview & History
Why visit Kandy? As Sri Lanka's cultural capital, Kandy city is packed with heritage and charm. There are easily 12 best things to do in Kandy to fill your itinerary. Top of the list is the Temple of the Tooth relic; remember to check tickets and dress code before entering. Take a stroll around the scenic Kandy lake, or head to the Kandy view point for panoramic photos. Don't miss the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, a massive expanse of exotic flora. If you're visiting in summer, mark the Kandy Esala Perahera 2026 dates on your calendar for an unforgettable cultural festival. Finally, catch the famous Kandy to Ella train for breathtaking views. Check our FAQs and tips on where to stay to complete your Kandy tourist attractions checklist.
Key Highlights & Things to Do
Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and experience the daily drum and horn ceremonies.
Take a walk around Kandy Lake and check out the historic Cloud Wall (Walakulu Bamma).
Wander through the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya to see giant fig trees and rare orchids.
Catch an evening Kandyan cultural show with traditional dancing, drumming, and a fire-walking finale.
Drive up to the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue for panoramic views of the city.
Try local street food, pick up some spices, and taste Ceylon tea at the Kandy Central Market.
Head to the Ceylon Tea Museum in the 1925 Hantana Tea Factory to dive into tea-making history.
Practical Traveler Tips & Advice
How to Get There & Route Guide
Kandy is located approximately 115 km east of Colombo. You can reach Kandy via a scenic 3-hour private drive along the Colombo-Kandy highway or aboard the famous observation train winding through lush mountain valleys and pine plantations. A private chauffeur guide offers convenient door-to-door access to all surrounding viewpoints and botanical gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tourists see the actual Tooth Relic inside the temple?
The physical tooth relic is protected inside seven gold caskets. During the daily Thewawa ceremonies, the inner chamber doors open, allowing visitors and devotees to view the magnificent outermost golden stupa casket from a short distance.
What is the dress code for Kandy Temple of the Tooth?
Visitors must wear clothing that covers both shoulders and knees. Sleeveless tops, shorts, mini-skirts, and transparent clothing are strictly prohibited. Wearing white or pastel colors is warmly appreciated by locals.
How much time should I spend in Kandy?
We recommend spending at least 1 to 2 nights in Kandy to comfortably explore the Temple of the Tooth, Peradeniya Gardens, tea museum, cultural dance show, and surrounding hill country viewpoints.
When does the Kandy Esala Perahera take place?
The historic Esala Perahera festival takes place annually during the lunar month of Esala (July or August). It features hundreds of decorated temple elephants, thousands of dancers, fire-breathers, and drummers parading the sacred casket through the streets.
Ready to explore Sacred City of Kandy?
Tell us your travel dates and group size. Our local Sri Lankan travel designers will build a 100% customized private tour linking Sacred City of Kandy with other top attractions, complete with a private vehicle and verified luxury or boutique hotels.