10 Best Things to Do and See in Kandy
Exploring Kandy on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Kandy, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Kandy. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Temple of the Tooth
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. Set within a vast sacred complex by the lake, it draws visitors for both its religious importance and refined architecture, with timber details, traditional roofs and intricate ornamentation. Travelers discover a revered shrine, prayer halls and a peaceful atmosphere shaped by offerings and ceremonies. It is also an essential stop for understanding the city's cultural and spiritual heritage.
2. Peradeniya Botanical Garden
Peradeniya Botanical Garden, near Kandy, is one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful green spaces and a must-see for nature lovers. Explore shaded avenues, manicured lawns, tropical plants, orchids, palms and remarkable old trees. The garden also offers lovely river views and a peaceful setting for a relaxing stroll. It is the perfect place to discover the country’s plant diversity in a calm, pleasant atmosphere.
3. Sacred City of Kandy
The Sacred City of Kandy is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic places to visit, in a city surrounded by hills and gardens. Explore a major Buddhist complex centered on the Temple of the Tooth, with shrines, pavilions, and prayer spaces filled with a peaceful, solemn atmosphere. Visitors can see floral offerings, statues, murals, and refined traditional architecture. It is also a living site, visited by pilgrims and travelers alike, offering insight into the spirituality and culture of Kandy.
4. Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary in Kandy is a peaceful forest reserve on the city’s hillside, loved for its shaded trails and natural atmosphere. As you walk through it, you’ll discover dense tropical vegetation, views over Kandy, and a wide variety of birds, monkeys and other wildlife. It is an ideal place to observe nature, walk away from the city bustle and enjoy a protected space where the wet forest keeps its full charm.
5. Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya
Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya is a peaceful Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka, known for its serene atmosphere and contemplative setting. Visitors can usually discover traditional religious architecture, prayer spaces, Buddha statues and decorative elements linked to Buddhist worship. The site also offers a glimpse into local spiritual life, with offerings, incense and quiet reflection. It is an interesting stop for understanding Kandy’s cultural and religious heritage while enjoying a calm break away from the city’s bustle.
6. Arthur’s Seat View Point, Kandy
Arthur’s Seat View Point in Kandy is a scenic viewpoint known for its panoramic views over the city and surrounding hills. From here, visitors can often see Kandy Lake, lush green slopes and, on clear days, the rooftops of the city below. It is a peaceful stop for photos, sightseeing and a quiet break above the busy streets of Kandy.
7. Ceylon Tea Museum
Located in Kandy, the Ceylon Tea Museum lets visitors discover the world of Sri Lankan tea in a setting dedicated to this emblematic product. The museum features antique machinery, tea-making tools and objects linked to the history of tea cultivation, offering an insight into the many stages from leaf processing to the cup. It also shows how important tea is to Sri Lanka’s economy and identity. The visit appeals to both curious travelers and tea lovers, with an experience that is both heritage-focused and educational.
8. Kandy Viewpoint
Kandy Viewpoint is a popular lookout point offering one of the most beautiful panoramas over Kandy, Sri Lanka. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding hills, the urban landscape and, depending on the light, the ridges framing the valley. It is a simple but ideal place to pause, admire the scenery and take photos, especially at sunrise or sunset. The spot offers a great way to experience the atmosphere of Kandy in an open, natural setting.
9. Kandyan Cultural Centre
The Kandyan Cultural Centre in Kandy is a place dedicated to discovering the cultural traditions of Sri Lanka's hill country. Visitors usually come for performances showcasing Kandyan dance, traditional music, and aspects of local heritage in a setting designed for travelers. It offers a lively and accessible way to experience Kandy's cultural identity through artistic performances and Sri Lankan customs. It is an interesting stop for understanding the city's rich culture.
10. Royal Palace Park – Kandy
Royal Palace Park in Kandy offers a pleasant break in a heritage-rich green area. Enjoy a peaceful setting close to the royal palace and the city’s main cultural sites, with shaded paths, open spaces for walking, and viewpoints over Kandy’s urban landscape. It is a great place to pause, take in the local atmosphere, and explore one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic districts at a relaxed pace.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
