Kandy

Spiritual and Cultural Heart of Sri Lanka

Kandy

Spiritual and Cultural Heart of Sri Lanka

Kandy

Spiritual and Cultural Heart of Sri Lanka

Introduction and History

Kandy, nestled in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, served as the last capital of the island’s ancient kings. The city is deeply revered for housing the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Buddhism’s most sacred shrines. Surrounded by verdant hills and sitting beside Kandy Lake, it blends historical, spiritual, and scenic appeal seamlessly.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal months to visit Kandy are December to March, when rainfall is minimal and the weather is pleasant — perfect for sightseeing, cultural exploration, and serene walks around the city.

Important Travel Notes

Nearby Attractions

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

📍 1.4 km | ⏱️ 7 minutes

Home to the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and a central site for Buddhist worship.

Kandy Lake (Kiri Muhuda)

📍 Adjacent to city center

An artificial lake built in 1807, offering a tranquil walking path and scenic views of the city.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya

📍 5.6 km | ⏱️ 16 minutes

Features over 4,000 plant species, majestic trees, and well-manicured landscapes.

Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya (Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue):

📍 1.4 km | ⏱️ 6 minutes

A towering 26.8 m Buddha statue perched on a hill with panoramic city views, just 2 km from the center

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

📍 2.1 km | ⏱️ 9 minutes

A forest reserve ideal for short hikes, birdwatching, and a peaceful retreat from the city.

Distance from Airport and Nearby Cities

✈️

From Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

Approximately 116 km (3-hour drive)

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To Colombo

Approximately 144 km (3-hour 30-minute drive)

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To Sigiriya

Approximately 90 km (3-hour drive)

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To Nuwara Eliya

Approximately 73 km (2-hour 40-minute drive)

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To Ella

Approximately 135 km (3-hour 40-minute drive)

Highly Rated Nearby Restaurants

The Golden Crown

A café-style restaurant renowned for authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and friendly atmosphere.

Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar & Restaurant

Relaxed setting with international cuisine and stunning views of Kandy Lake.

Balaji Dosai

Vegetarian-friendly South Indian restaurant popular among locals and travelers alike.

Nearby Accommodation

Homestays (Rating ≥ 9)

Ilomoya Guest House

⭐ 9.0+ | Centrally located guesthouse offering comfortable rooms and warm hospitality.

Kandy Stay Villa

⭐ 9.0+ | Offers cozy rooms with personalized service and a home-like atmosphere.

Heritage Kandy Villa

⭐ 9.0+ | Blends traditional Sri Lankan design with modern comforts and scenic views.

3/4-Star Hotels (Rating ≥ 9)

Hotel Thilanka

⭐ 9.0+ | Luxury hillside resort with panoramic views.

The Golden Crown Hotel

⭐ 9.0+ | Centrally located with excellent service.

Kandy Myst by Cinnamon

⭐ 9.0+

Amaya Hills

⭐ 9.0+

The Grand Kandyan

⭐ 9.0+

The Trees Kandy

⭐ 9.0+

5-Star/Boutique Hotels (Rating ≥ 9)

Grand Serendib Hotel

⭐ 9.5+

Aarunya Nature Resort – Sri Lanka

⭐ 9.5+

Mountbatten Bungalow | Kandy

⭐ 9.5+

Santani Wellness Resort & Spa

⭐ 9.5+ | Luxury wellness retreat set in nature.

Ready to Experience Kandy?

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