Best Places to Visit in Kandy 2026 – Top Kandy Attractions

The following are the best places to visit in Kandy, which will help you to enjoy your Sri Lanka tourism seamlessly: 

Located near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, this cemetery dates back to the British colonial era. Surrounded by trees and overlooking Kandy Lake, it offers a quiet and reflective atmosphere. A local caretaker often shares stories about the individuals buried here, adding depth to your visit.

• Cost: Free entry; donations appreciated
• Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Colombo Street, near Temple of the Tooth
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds

One of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, this temple houses a relic believed to be Buddha’s tooth. Located within the royal palace complex, it features intricate carvings, traditional Kandyan architecture, and deeply spiritual rituals.

• Cost: 1,500 LKR (SAARC) / 2,000 LKR (others) (~₹400–600); camera fee ~500 LKR (~₹120–150)
• Timings: 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (pooja timings: 6:30 PM & 9:30 PM)
• Location: Sri Dalada Maligawa Complex
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during Esala Perahera (Jul–Aug)

Pro Tip: Attend the evening pooja for a more immersive cultural experience.

This forest reserve, located beside the Temple of the Tooth, is perfect for nature lovers. Spread across 257 acres, it is home to diverse bird species, orchids, and dense greenery. You can also visit small Buddhist hermitages within the forest.

• Cost: ~600 LKR (~₹150–180); guide optional
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location: Rajapihilla Mawatha
• Best Time to Visit: Morning for birdwatching

Standing tall at 88 feet, this white Buddha statue overlooks the city and offers panoramic views of Kandy. The statue depicts Buddha in a meditative posture, symbolising peace and enlightenment.

• Cost: Free; optional lift donation ~200 LKR (~₹50–60)
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Location: Bahiravokanda Road (2 km from Kandy Lake
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for stunning views

Located near the city centre, Wales Park offers elevated views of Kandy Lake and the surrounding hills. It’s a great spot for relaxing, photography, and short breaks during sightseeing.

• Cost: ~200 LKR (~₹50–60)
• Timings: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Location: Near Temple of the Tooth
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon

Built between 1843 and 1848 during British rule, this church is known for its red-brick interiors, wooden ceilings, and Gothic architecture. It offers a calm escape from the busy city.

• Cost: Free; donations welcome
• Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location: Church Square, near Kandy Clock Tower
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning

Also known as Kiri Muhuda (Sea of Milk), Kandy Lake sits at the heart of the city and is ideal for peaceful walks and scenic views. The pathway around the lake is perfect for evening strolls and photography.

• Cost: Free
• Timings: Open 24/7
• Location: Central Kandy
• Best Time to Visit: Evening

Pro Tip: Visit around sunset for the best lighting and atmosphere.

Sri Lankan history and heritage are preserved in the National Museum in Kandy. formerly known as Palle Vahala. The museum was used as accommodation for royal guests.  It is the best place to visit in Sri Lanka for curious travellers interested in knowing about the past. The museum consists of thousands of artefacts and Ola-leaf manuscripts.

• Cost: ~500 LKR (~₹120–150)
• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Fridays)
• Location: Dharma Chowk Mawatha
• Best Time to Visit: Morning on weekdays

One of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Sri Lanka, this site is over 400 years old. It serves as a centre for religious learning and houses ancient artefacts and scriptures.

• Cost: Free; donations encouraged
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Asgiriya Road 
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning

The Kandyan Art Association, formed in 1882, is an ideal spot for art collectors and tourists interested in buying souvenirs. A one-hour cultural show is held on a daily basis, where Kandy’s culture and heritage are celebrated through dance and music. The store also gives valuable insights into methods for creating the traditional art forms.

• Cost: Show ~2,000 LKR (~₹500–600)
• Timings: Show at 5:30 PM; shop 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Near Kandy Lake
• Best Time to Visit: Evening

Lankatilaka Temple sits on a hill in Kandy and depicts beautiful Kandyan architecture from the 18th century. Its white walls and golden roof have colourful paintings, old Buddha statues, and detailed murals of Buddhist stories. You can walk up easy steps to reach it and enjoy peaceful views of the city.

• Cost: ~300 LKR (~₹75–90)
• Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: 4 km from Kandy city
• Best Time to Visit: Morning

Situated within Kandy's cultural triangle, the International Buddhist Museum depicts Buddhism's global history through rare artefacts and interactive exhibits. Housed in the Temple complex, it features ancient relics, scrolls, and displays on Buddha's life. This place is best for culture seekers wanting deeper insights beyond temples.

• Cost: ~300–600 LKR (~₹75–180)
• Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Location: Temple complex
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning

Kandy is well connected to Colombo and other major cities in Sri Lanka, so getting there is fairly simple. You can choose between train, bus and private car based on your budget, comfort and travel plans.

By Train

The train from Colombo to Kandy takes around three hours and passes through green hills, small towns and countryside views. If you are continuing from Kandy to Ella by train, it is one of the most scenic journeys in Sri Lanka. During busy travel periods, it is better to book reserved seats in advance.

By Road

You can also reach Kandy by bus, taxi or private car from Colombo. A private car gives you more flexibility, especially if you want to stop at places along the way. Buses are a more affordable choice for budget travellers.

Knowing the different transportation options in Sri Lanka makes it easier to choose the right way to reach Kandy and plan your journey around the city.

Kandy can be visited year-round, but the weather varies by season. December to April is generally an ideal time period to visit Kandy for sightseeing, with better conditions for exploring places such as Kandy Lake, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

• December to April: This is generally a good time for sightseeing, with pleasant weather and relatively less rain. It is ideal for exploring outdoor attractions such as Kandy Lake, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. You can also easily combine your visit with other destinations in your Sri Lanka itinerary.
• July or August: Visit during this time if you want to experience the famous Esala Perahera festival. The city comes alive with colourful processions, traditional performances and religious ceremonies centred around the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. If you are interested in experiencing Sri Lanka culture, this is a memorable time to visit.
• Plan ahead during the festival: Kandy gets much busier during Esala Perahera, and hotels and transport can fill up quickly. Festival dates may vary each year, so check the schedule before booking your trip.

1. Start early: Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Kandy Lake in the morning. You’ll avoid the busiest hours and have more time for other sights.
2. Dress modestly: Temples require covered shoulders and knees. Carry a light shawl or cover-up so you can enter religious sites comfortably.
3. Use tuk tuks for short trips: Some attractions are close to Kandy Lake, while others are on hills. A tuk tuk is a convenient way to get around.
4. Carry cash: Keep some Sri Lankan rupees with you for tuk tuks, small shops and entry fees. Not every local place accepts cards.
5. Plan around the weather: Kandy can get sudden showers, even during the drier months. Carry a small umbrella and leave some flexibility in your sightseeing plans.

Kandy is a destination that beautifully blends spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. From sacred temples and historical landmarks to peaceful lakes and lush sanctuaries, the places to visit in Kandy show a different side of the city at every stop. Whether you're exploring Kandy attractions for the first time or revisiting its charm, it remains one of the most rewarding stops in any Sri Lanka package.