This blog post is all about a Kandy travel guide in Sri Lanka.
When we first planned our trip to Sri Lanka, Kandy wasn’t exactly at the top of our must-visit list.
We were chasing golden beaches, palm trees, and ocean sunsets, not necessarily a busy inland city. But we were pleasantly surprised by what we found.
Kandy might not have the chilled-out vibes of the south coast or the tropical hilltop stays of Ella, but it has something else entirely: culture, history, and energy.
Often referred to as Sri Lanka’s second city, Kandy is a vibrant, bustling destination that holds incredible religious and historical significance, making it well worth a stop on your route through the country.
Although we only had one night here due to some much-needed rest after intense travel days, it still left a lasting impression.
So, whether you’re using Kandy as a starting point for the famous train journey to Ella or spending a few days exploring its temples and gardens, here’s a Kandy travel guide for everything you need to know to make the most of 48 hours in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
This blog post is all about a Kandy travel guide.
Kandy Travel Guide: Where is Kandy, Sri Lanka?
Kandy is located in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, about 115 kilometres northeast of Colombo.
Surrounded by misty hills and lush jungle, it sits at an elevation of around 500 metres, which gives it a slightly cooler climate compared to the coast.
Kandy serves as a gateway to the central highlands and is often used as the jumping-off point for train journeys, tea country exploration, and cultural visits.
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Kandy Travel Guide: Why Visit Kandy?
Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s most important cultural and religious cities.
It was the last capital of the ancient kings and is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world.
It also has a lively street life, colourful markets, sprawling botanical gardens, and access to beautiful countryside.
Whether you’re into religious history, colonial architecture, or just want a city that feels a bit more real than the more touristy spots, Kandy gives you a totally different perspective of Sri Lanka.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
Kandy Travel Guide: How to Get to Kandy
Below are various ways to arrive in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
How to Get to Kandy by Train
You can reach Kandy by train from Colombo, Nuwara Eliya (via Nanu Oya) or Ella. It’s well-connected and relatively affordable, though trains can get booked up in high season.
If you’re coming from Colombo, the train journey takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.
How to Get to Kandy by Bus or Car
Kandy is also connected by major roads and highways, so taking a bus or private car is another easy option.
We opted to arrive by car and continue our journey by train the next day.
Kandy Travel Guide: 48 Hour Itinerary
If you’re spending 2 days in Kandy, you’ll have time to dive into both the spiritual side of the city and its surrounding natural beauty.
This Kandy travel guide shows you how to spend 48 hours in Kandy.
Kandy Travel Guide Day 1: Temples, Views and Cultural Gems
Morning: Temple of the Sacred Tooth
Start your time in Kandy with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
This temple is said to house a tooth from the Buddha himself and is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the country. Even if you’re not religious, the architecture, history, and atmosphere are something else.
Entry is around 1,500 LKR, and you’ll need to dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered, shoes off.
Midday: Walk Around Kandy Lake
After your visit, take a stroll around Kandy Lake, which sits right in the centre of the city.
It’s a calm escape from the busy streets, with shady paths, benches, and plenty of locals just going about their day.
Afternoon: Explore the Local Markets or Visit the Big Buddha
Depending on your interest, head to the Kandy City Centre markets or catch a tuk tuk up to the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue, often just called the Big Buddha.
The statue is 26 metres tall and offers panoramic views over the city.
Evening: Dinner at Manidiya or Fab Ceylon
We were too tired for much exploring on our night in Kandy, but we still managed a great meal.
Manidiya serves up classic Sri Lankan curries, while Fab Ceylon offers a more relaxed dining experience with a mix of Sri Lankan and Western options.
Kandy Travel Guide Day 2: Gardens, Tea and Breathtaking Views
Below is a Kandy travel guide for how to spend the second day of your 48 hours in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Morning: Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya
Just 20 minutes from the centre of Kandy are the Royal Botanic Gardens, some of the largest and most impressive in Asia.
You could spend hours here wandering through palm-lined paths, orchid houses, and spice gardens. If you’re after a more relaxed morning surrounded by nature, this is the spot.
Midday: Visit a Tea Plantation
If you won’t have time to visit Nuwara Eliya or Ella, this is your chance to see how Sri Lankan tea is made.
There are plantations and small factories around Kandy offering tours and tastings. Ask your hotel or tuk tuk driver for a recommendation nearby.
Afternoon: Head to Ambuluwawa Tower
For those that want something a little more adventurous, make your way to Ambuluwawa Tower.
It’s a winding observation tower with unreal views. But be warned, the top is very narrow and definitely not for those with a fear of heights.
Evening: Light Dinner at Cafe Nuwara
We had our pre-train dinner here and it was just what we needed. A comfortable, colonial-style café with Western food (great if your stomach needs a break from spicy dishes before a long train ride).
The atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s a good place to unwind.
Kandy Travel Guide: More Things to Do in Kandy
If you’ve got a bit more time or want to customise your itinerary, here are a few more ideas from my Kandy travel guide:
- Udawatta Kele Sanctuary – A rainforest reserve just behind the Temple of the Tooth, perfect for a shaded walk and spotting monkeys and birds.
- Cultural Shows – Traditional dance performances happen nightly in town. It’s a good way to experience Sri Lanka’s cultural traditions in a short window.
- Sri Maha Bodhi Temple (Anuradhapura) – While not in Kandy itself, this ancient site is within reach on a day trip if you’re heading north.
- Kandy View Point – A short uphill walk or drive gives you a beautiful panoramic view of the city, lake and surrounding hills.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
Kandy Travel Guide: The Best Places to Eat in Kandy
- Balaji Dosa – South Indian vegetarian restaurant with a cult following.
- Manidiya – Local Sri Lankan food, no frills but great flavours.
- Fab Ceylon – A good mix of local and international dishes.
- Cafe Nuwara – Colonial vibe, ideal for a quiet coffee or safe dinner before travel.
Kandy Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Kandy
We stayed at Galaxy City Hotel, perched on a hill in the city centre.
It was perfect for a short stay: big room, spacious bathroom, and a balcony with panoramic views of the hills.
It was peaceful, had great air con (important!), and was close enough to the train station to make the morning departure to Ella smooth and stress-free. You can see a room tour in my Kandy YouTube vlog here.
If you’re planning on staying longer, there are also plenty of guesthouses and boutique hotels tucked away in the surrounding hills if you’re after somewhere quieter and more scenic.
Kandy Travel Guide: The Kandy to Ella Train Ride
You really can’t talk about Kandy without mentioning the train to Ella.
Often dubbed one of the most scenic train rides in the world, this 7-hour journey winds through tea plantations, over bridges, and past waterfalls and jungle.
We boarded the train early in the morning and were glued to the window the entire time. Try to book second-class reserved if you want a balance of open windows and guaranteed seating.
Even if Kandy itself isn’t your favourite spot, the train journey it kicks off is one of the highlights of any Sri Lanka itinerary.
Ultimate Kandy Travel Guide
Kandy wasn’t the place we were most excited for, but it surprised us.
It’s a city full of life, culture and local charm, and though we didn’t get to explore it as much as we’d have liked, it still stands out in our memory.
It’s different from the chilled beach towns and laid-back hill stations. But that’s what makes it special.
If you’ve got the time, it’s worth giving Kandy more than just one night.
And if nothing else, you’ll want to be here to catch the train to Ella. But I’d argue there’s more to Kandy than just the station.
Need help planning your Sri Lanka adventure? Check out my full Sri Lanka Travel Guide with route suggestions, safety tips, and where to stay around the country.
And don’t forget to pack your SafetyWing travel insurance! We use it on all our trips and it’s ideal for long-term travel with no fixed end date.
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If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
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