Discovering heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country
If you’re planning a short holiday in Sri Lanka, there’s no destination quite like Kandy — the island’s cultural capital and a UNESCO World Heritage city. Surrounded by lush green hills and steeped in centuries of history, travel Kandy offers a perfect balance between serenity and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, taking a peaceful stroll around Kandy Lake, or experiencing the colorful Kandyan dance performances, this city never fails to inspire.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you exactly how to travel Kandy like a local — from how to get there, where to stay, and what to see, to the hidden gems that most tourists miss. Perfect for travelers with limited vacation days, Kandy’s charm lies in its ability to blend cultural heritage with natural beauty. Let’s dive in and discover why Kandy should be at the top of your short-holiday travel list in Sri Lanka.
Why You Should Travel to Kandy
Kandy is more than just a city — it’s the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural soul. When you travel Kandy, you’re stepping into a world where ancient traditions, royal heritage, and breathtaking scenery come together in harmony.
Home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world, Kandy offers a deep spiritual experience that attracts visitors from across the globe. The city is also surrounded by lush green mountains, misty tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls, making it a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.
For travelers with only a few days to explore Sri Lanka, Kandy provides the perfect short-holiday destination — compact, charming, and filled with experiences that reflect the true essence of the island. Whether you love history, culture, or nature, Kandy delivers it all in one unforgettable journey.
Top Attraction Places in Kandy
When you travel Kandy, you’ll find that it’s a beautiful mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are the must-visit attractions for any short holiday itinerary:
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
The most sacred Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, housing a relic of Lord Buddha’s tooth. It’s a must-visit cultural and spiritual landmark at the heart of Kandy.
Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
Just 6 km from Kandy city, these gardens feature over 4,000 species of plants, including orchids, palms, and medicinal herbs. A peaceful escape for nature lovers.
Kandy Lake (Kiri Muhuda)
Built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, this serene lake offers a relaxing stroll with beautiful city views and reflections of the Temple of the Tooth.
Kandy Cultural Show
Experience traditional Kandyan dance, drumming, and cultural performances — an authentic showcase of Sri Lankan heritage.
you can read more about Kandy Esala Perahera by visiting this Article
How to Travel Kandy
Planning a short trip to Kandy? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you make the most of your journey to this beautiful hill-country capital.
Choose Your Travel Route
Kandy is located about 115 km from Colombo, and the journey takes around 3.5–4 hours by road or train.
🚌 By Bus: A budget-friendly option for solo travelers and backpackers.
🚆 By Train: One of the most scenic train rides in Sri Lanka, the route from Colombo to Kandy winds through lush tea hills and small villages.
🚗 By Car or Taxi: Offers flexibility and stops at attractions like Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to travel Kandy is between December and April, when the weather is cool and pleasant. If you visit in July or August, you can witness the Esala Perahera Festival, one of Asia’s most vibrant cultural events.
Where to Stay & Eat in Kandy
Whether you’re planning a luxury retreat or a quick budget getaway, Kandy offers accommodation and dining options for every traveler.
Where to Stay
- 🏨 The Grand Kandyan Hotel – A 5-star stay with breathtaking views and modern comforts.
- 🏡 Helga’s Folly – An artistic boutique hotel filled with eccentric décor and character.
- 🌿 Kandy City Stay Hostel – Great for backpackers and short-stay travelers.
- 🍃 Mountbatten Bungalow – A peaceful colonial-style hotel surrounded by tea gardens.
Where to Eat
- 🍛 Balaji Dosai – A top-rated spot for authentic South Indian and Sri Lankan vegetarian food.
- ☕ Cafe Secret Alley – Hidden gem for coffee, light meals, and desserts.
- 🌶️ The Empire Cafe – Located near the Temple of the Tooth, offering local and fusion dishes.
- 🥘 Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar – Perfect for enjoying dinner with a view over Kandy Lake.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
Traveling to Kandy, Sri Lanka is more than just a getaway — it’s a journey into the island’s cultural and natural heart. From the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic to the tranquil Kandy Lake and lush Peradeniya Gardens, every corner tells a story of heritage, faith, and breathtaking beauty.
Whether you’re visiting for a short weekend break or adding Kandy to your Sri Lankan travel circuit, this city offers experiences that blend serenity and adventure in perfect harmony.
Ready to plan your short holiday to Kandy?
Visit Yestvo.com to explore curated travel packages, tips, and guides that help you make the most of your time in Sri Lanka.
Follow us on Contact US for more travel inspiration and insider updates from the paradise island.
