Kandy

Sri Lanka

Safety rating
7.5/10
Best time to visit
January to April offers the driest weather, while the Esala Perahera festival in July or August is a spectacular highlight.
Population
0.1M

Overview

Kandy, set amid misty hills around a serene lake, is Sri Lanka's cultural and spiritual heart. It is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. Colonial charm, tea-country views, and traditional dance define this highland city.

Top attractions

Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, stroll around Kandy Lake, see a Kandyan dance show, and explore the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.

Getting around

Tuk-tuks, taxis, and walking serve the compact center, with trains linking to the hill country and coast.

Kandy essentials