Sri Lanka
Kandy travel guide
Plan a trip to Kandy: what to eat, where to stay, the best day trips and ready-made day-by-day plans.
What to eat in Kandy
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HoppersBowl‑shaped fermented rice pancakes, often eaten for breakfast with egg or sambol.
Kottu RotiChopped flatbread stir‑fried with vegetables, egg and meat, a popular lunch or dinner street food.
String HoppersSteamed rice noodle nests served with coconut milk and curry, common at breakfast and dinner.
LampraisDutch‑influenced rice parcel wrapped in banana leaf with meat, eggplant and sambol, served on special occasions.
Where to stay in Kandy
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first‑time visitors
Close to the lake, markets and historic sites; ideal for walking tours.
garden lovers
Near the botanical garden and university, quieter streets with green views.
nature seekers
Nestled by the forest sanctuary, offers boutique guesthouses and forest walks.
budget travelers
South of the lake with affordable guesthouses and good bus connections.
Day trips from Kandy
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Sigiriya Rock Fortress
73 km
Ancient palace on a lion-shaped rock, offers panoramic views and frescoes.
Dambulla Cave Temple
63 km
A series of Buddha statues in five caves, notable for murals and stone carvings.
Knuckles Mountain Range
25 km
Rugged peaks with trekking routes and diverse wildlife, great for day hikes.
Nuwara Eliya
16 km
Cool highland town with tea plantations and colonial architecture.
Best time to visit
Best time to go: February
Midday highs, based on last year's weather. Green months have comfortable temperatures and few rainy days.
Turn this into a day-by-day plan with Triptime AI, or start from a ready-made one.
Plan 2 days in Kandy
What to pack in October
Ready-made plans for Kandy
Questions about Kandy
When is the best time to eat street food in Kandy?
Most stalls open from early morning until about 8 pm; evenings are cooler and less crowded.
Do I need to tip in restaurants?
A 10 % tip is customary if service is not included; you can leave cash on the table.
Is it safe to stay near Kandy Lake?
Yes, the area is well‑patrolled and popular with tourists, though noise can be higher at night.
How far are the main attractions from the city centre?
Most sites, including the Temple of the Tooth and the lake, are within a 10‑minute walk from central accommodation.
