The Ultimate Kandy Sri Lanka Travel Guide: The Last Royal Kingdom

 

The Ultimate Kandy Sri Lanka Travel Guide: The Last Royal Kingdom

Nestled in a scenic mountain valley in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, Kandy stands as the island's ultimate cultural capital. Situated about 500 meters above sea level, the city is encircled by a majestic ring of mountains, giving it a wonderfully cool and pleasant climate throughout the year. 

As you explore, you will notice the breathtaking Hanthana and Kadugannawa mountain ranges framing the city landscape. Adding to its natural charm, Sri Lanka's longest river, the Mahaweli River, gracefully flows right through the heart of the Kandy region. 

How to Get to Kandy

• By Train (The Best Experience):

 Taking the train is undoubtedly the most scenic way to travel. If you hop on an intercity express train from Colombo, you can reach Kandy in just about 3 hours. Popular themed trains like the Podi Menike and Udarata Menike (which head towards Ella) also stop here. 

• By Luxury Highway Bus:

 If you prefer the Central Expressway, you can catch a luxury bus from near the Colombo Market or the Makumbura Multimodal Transport Hub. This commute takes around 3 hours. 

• By Standard Bus:

For a more traditional route, standard buses run via the Old Kandy Road through Kadugannawa, which usually takes about 4 to 5 hours. 

• By Private Vehicle (Via Expressway):

Enter the expressway network from the Kadawatha interchange, drive up to Mirigama or Kurunegala, and then transition onto the regular highway to drive straight into Kandy. 

• By Private Vehicle (Scenic Old Route):

 If you love winding roads and breathtaking views, take the classic A1 highway from Colombo. This route takes you through incredibly picturesque towns like Kegalle, Mawanella, and the famous Kadugannawa pass. 

Top Places to Visit in Kandy

1. Sri Dalada Maligawa (The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic)

This is the crown jewel of the global Buddhist community, housing the sacred left tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Paying homage at this grand temple complex is the primary reason millions of travelers journey to Kandy. Right next to the main temple, you can explore the ancient Royal Palace of King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, which now serves as a historic museum. You will also see the Meda Wasala (the Queen's Palace) and the iconic Paththirippuwa (the Octagon tower), which the king originally used to store weaponry and detain prisoners. 

2. Kandy Magul Maduwa (The Royal Audience Hall)

Adorned with intricate traditional wood carvings, this grand pavilion served as the royal court during the Kandyan Kingdom era. It holds immense historical value, as it was the exact location where the Kandyan Convention was signed in 1815. 

3. Kandy Lake (Kiri Muhuda)

Located right beside the Temple of the Tooth Relic, this beautiful artificial lake is also beautifully known as the "Sea of Milk". It was masterfully built by the last king of Sri Lanka, King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. 

4. Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

Officially established under British rule in 1821, this is the largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka. Walking through, you will discover the famous massive Java Fig tree, a stunning Orchid house, and the iconic avenue of Royal Palms. 

Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. 

5. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

Perched high on a hill overlooking the main city center, this towering white giant Buddha statue offers a phenomenal 360 panoramic view of the entire Kandyan landscape. 

6. Udawattakele Sanctuary

A lush, historic forest reserve located right above the bustling heart of Kandy city, offering a peaceful escape into nature. 

7. Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Vihara

Situated just a short distance from the main city, this ancient cave temple from the Kandyan era features some of the finest, most exquisite traditional Kandyan frescoes and wall paintings on the island.

8. University of Peradeniya

Widely recognized as the largest and most beautiful university campus in Sri Lanka. Sprawling along the banks of the Mahaweli River at the foothills of the Hanthana range, visitors flock here to see the historic Akbar Bridge, the legendary Sarachchandra open-air amphitheater (famously known as The Wala), and its breathtaking natural greenery. 

9. The Kandy Esala Perahera Festival

Held annually around July or August, this spectacular event is one of the world's most famous grand cultural and religious pageants. During this season, the entire city of Kandy lights up with unmatched festive vibrance. 

Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Kandy

• Luxury Accommodations
• Grand Serendib Hotel
• Kandy Myst by Cinnamon
• Radisson Hotel Kandy
• Queen’s Hotel Kandy:

A historic property with over 160 years of British colonial heritage, directly overlooking Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Tooth. It remains a top choice for foreign tourists who want prime balcony views of the annual Esala Perahera festival.

• Amaya Hills Kandy:

A gorgeous resort beautifully built into the Hanthana hills, featuring architecture inspired by traditional royal Kandyan palaces. 

• Cinnamon Citadel Kandy:

 A serene and stunning riverside retreat located right on the edge of the majestic Mahaweli River.

• The Radha Hotel:

A premium boutique hotel situated very close to the Temple of the Tooth, adorned with beautiful traditional Sri Lankan wood carvings and cultural motifs. 

• Hotel Suisse Kandy
• Earl’s Regent Hotel
• Kandy City Stay
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