7 Things to Do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, is a must-visit destination that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and spirituality. The journey from Colombo to Kandy typically takes around half a day, and while the distance isn’t a problem, navigating through the bustling streets and tight spaces can be a bit of a challenge.

As we entered Kandy, we decided to take a short break and stretch our legs. It was during this stop that I stumbled upon a pack of cashews that quickly became a highlight of the trip. Each bite was a perfect blend of buttery, nutty, and creamy flavours — so delicious, in fact, that I regret not buying more!

Kandy made a lasting impression on me, and I knew this was going to be a special destination. If you’re wondering what to do in Kandy, here are 7 unmissable experiences that will make your visit just as memorable as mine.

1. Explore the Temple of the Sacred Tooth

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth is held in reverence by the locals. It houses a tooth of Buddha which apparently originated from India way back in the 4th century. According to legends, whoever holds the tooth is able to govern Sri Lanka. This World Heritage Site receives lots of visitors every day, bearing offerings of frangipani and lotus flowers. The tooth is kept in a private area and only revealed to the public once a year during Esala Perahera.

2. Walk around Kandy Lake

If you’re a person who’s one with nature, the Kandy Lake will resonate with you. In the evening, sit and enjoy the Kandyan cultural dances. The show begins at five in the evening and goes on for an hour. You can book your seat before the show starts, which is a plus! For once, you get to see Sri Lankan take on fire stunts, with drum plays and colourful costumes.

TripZilla Tip: There is a playground here that kids will love too!

3. Breathe in the fragrance of the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens is the largest botanical garden in the country, covering 60 hectares of land and home to a humongous range of flowers and plants. If plants are your thing, you must visit this site!

4. Ride an elephant at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Yes, you read that right. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary for elephants, with more than 80 of its kind walking around the park. Drop by at around 10am or 2pm, and you’ll see how elephants are bathed. For a small fee, you can ride or feed an elephant. Be humbled by the majestic creatures as you stand almost toe-to-toe with them!

Also read: Meet the Wild Elephants of Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

5. Get over your fears at the British Garrison Cemetery

In case you’re wondering, there’s nothing spooky here. The British Garrison Cemetery came to be in 1817 and is a short distance from the National Museum of Kandy. The gates open at 8am and the cemetery is blessed with a scenery that beckons you with peace and quiet. British soldiers were buried in its grounds, and one of the most notable graves is that of Sir John D’Oyly. The former diplomat played a significant role in the 1815 Convention of Kandy when the place was annexed by the British Crown.

Drop by anytime between 8am to 6pm to soak in a different sort of Kandy history.

6. Light a candle at Kandy Devales

There’s absolutely no need to reach into your pocket and remove your wallet at Kandy Devales. The Devales is a set-up of temple complexes that showcase a mix of Buddhist and Hindu deities.

Walk past its gates and you’ll find yourself mesmerised by rows and rows of burning lamps. This is how it’s like every single day. Despite the tons of visitors, you’ll find that the place isn’t noisy. The sounds that fill the air come mostly from the chants of monks and priests. You can participate in the prayers and light a butter lamp. Offer a prayer from your heart and transcend it into the spark that lights your candle, and set it free.

I walked around and found myself staring at a serene Buddha statue. I closed my eyes and for a moment, I surrendered all my thoughts and wants.

The sacred Bo tree is also a focus point here. According to the locals, Buddha sat under the tree to meditate and eventually reached enlightenment.

7. Brush up on history at The National Museum of Kandy

The building that houses treasures from the past is a piece of history in itself. The National Museum of Kandy was a palace where the queens of the king once stayed. Its architecture has been done to feature the Kandyan period and has been open to the public since 1942.

Expect to find dancing costumes, musical instruments, objects used by the Vedda community among others in its place. There are exhibitions conducted from time to time. Visiting hours fall between 9am to 5pm from Tuesdays to Sundays.

Also read: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Sri Lanka, From Surfing to Scenic Train Rides

Kandy might be a quiet town, but it is certainly rich with culture and history. With these pointers in mind, I hope you’ll be booking a ticket or two to visit sometime soon!