Fun Things to Do in Kandy | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Kandy Travel Guide
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Welcome to Kandy's cultural capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Nestled amidst lush green hills in the heart of the island, Kandy offers a captivating blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. As you explore this enchanting city, you will be greeted by the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site that houses a tooth of Lord Buddha. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand annual procession featuring beautifully adorned elephants, traditional dancers, and musicians. Don't miss the opportunity to wander through the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to a stunning collection of orchids, palm trees, and exotic plants. With its rich heritage, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality, Kandy promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Kandy Travel Videos
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![EP 09: THINGS GOT WEIRD IN KANDY SRI LANKA 🇱🇰 (we've never done anything like this) [KANDY VLOG]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/eqkBdAA7Oog/hqdefault.jpg)
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Things To Do In Kandy
Kandy is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Here are some things to do in Kandy:
1. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic: This sacred Buddhist temple houses the tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Explore the beautiful architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.
2. Stroll around the Kandy Lake: Take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Kandy Lake, also known as Bogambara Lake. Enjoy the serene surroundings and capture stunning views of the city and the nearby mountains.
3. Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens: Just a short drive from Kandy, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya is a must-visit attraction. Discover a vast collection of exotic plants, orchids, and trees spread across 147 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens.
4. Experience the Kandy Esala Perahera: If you're lucky to visit during July or August, don't miss the grand Kandy Esala Perahera festival. Witness a magnificent procession of elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, and fire performers, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
5. Take a scenic train ride to Ella: Hop on a train from Kandy and enjoy one of the most breathtaking train journeys in the world. Marvel at the lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls as the train winds its way to the charming town of Ella.
6. Visit the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary: Located near the Temple of the Tooth Relic, this forest reserve offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Hike through the trails, spot various bird species, and enjoy panoramic views of Kandy from the viewpoint.
7. Explore the Kandy Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Kandy at the Kandy Museum, also known as the National Museum of Kandy. Admire the collection of artifacts, traditional costumes, and ancient relics that depict the city's past.
8. Indulge in traditional Sri Lankan cuisine: Kandy is known for its delicious food, so make sure to taste some local delicacies.
Tours And Activities In Kandy
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Best Time To Visit Kandy
The best time to visit Kandy is during the months of December to April. This is the dry season in Kandy, with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. The main attractions in Kandy, such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, are best enjoyed in pleasant weather. However, it is important to note that Kandy can be quite crowded during this time, especially during the Kandy Esala Perahera festival in July or August. If you prefer quieter surroundings, you may consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to July or September to November, when there are fewer tourists and lower hotel rates. However, be prepared for more rainfall during these months. Overall, the best time to visit Kandy depends on your personal preferences and tolerance for crowds and rain.
Flight Calendar For Kandy
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Best Areas To Stay In Kandy
Kandy offers a variety of great areas for accommodation. Here are a few of the best areas to consider:
1. Kandy City Center: This area is perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the city. It is home to many popular attractions such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Kandy Lake. There are numerous hotels and guesthouses available, offering convenience and easy access to the city's main sights.
2. Hantana: If you prefer a more tranquil and scenic setting, Hantana is an excellent choice. Located on a hill overlooking Kandy, this area offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and lush greenery. There are several boutique hotels and guesthouses nestled in this area, providing a serene and relaxing stay.
3. Digana: For those who enjoy outdoor activities and sports, Digana is a fantastic option. This area is famous for its golf courses and offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts and villas. It is a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Sri Lanka, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nearby attractions like the Victoria Dam.
4. Peradeniya: If you are interested in exploring the botanical wonders of Kandy, Peradeniya is the ideal area to stay in. It is home to the renowned Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, which showcase a vast collection of plants and trees. There are several guesthouses and hotels in this area, providing easy access to the gardens and other nearby attractions like the University of Peradeniya.
5. Katugastota: This area is perfect for those seeking a mix of convenience and tranquility. It is located just a short distance from Kandy city center and offers a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle. There are various accommodation options available, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Katugastota is also known for its historic sites, including the ancient Gadaladeniya Temple.
Overall, Kandy offers a diverse range of accommodation options in different areas, catering to various preferences and interests. Whether you prefer a central location, a serene hillside retreat, or proximity to specific attractions, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city.
Hotels Map Of Kandy
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Transportation To Kandy
There are several transportation options to get to Kandy.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport to Kandy is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can take a domestic flight to the nearby Polgolla Reservoir Airport in Kandy.
2. By Train: Kandy is well-connected by train from major cities in Sri Lanka, including Colombo. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside and is a popular choice among tourists.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services from Colombo and other major cities to Kandy. The journey by bus takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.
4. By Taxi: Taxis are available for hire from Colombo and other cities to Kandy. It is a convenient option if you prefer a more comfortable and private mode of transportation.
5. By Car: If you have your own vehicle or prefer to rent a car, you can drive to Kandy from Colombo or other cities. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.
Nearby Destination From Kandy
1. Nuwara Eliya: Known as "Little England," this hill station offers stunning tea plantations and a cool climate.
2. Dambulla: Home to the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient Buddhist murals and statues.
3. Sigiriya: Explore the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, boasting impressive frescoes and breathtaking views from the top.
4. Anuradhapura: Discover the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, an important city in Sri Lankan history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Polonnaruwa: Step back in time at Polonnaruwa, an ancient city showcasing well-preserved ruins of palaces, temples, and statues.
6. Galle: Wander through the charming streets of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
7. Ella: Enjoy breathtaking views of tea plantations and waterfalls while hiking in Ella, a small town nestled in the hills.
8. Nuwara Eliya: Known as "Little England," this hill station offers stunning tea plantations and a cool climate.
9. Dambulla: Home to the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient Buddhist murals and statues.
10. Sigiriya: Explore the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, boasting impressive frescoes and breathtaking views from the top.