Top Things to Do in the Kandy | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Plan Your Travel To Kandy

Places To Visit In Kandy

Hanthana Mountain Range

Mountains have the power to uplift your spirits; a reason why mountains are the most sought after destinations for all kinds of tourists. One such spot in the heart of the island country, Sri Lanka is Hanthana mountain range. The spectacular view that you get of the entire Kandy city from Hanthana mountain range will keep you awestruck for your entire journey. Acclaimed in 2010 as an environmental protected area, Hanthana mountain range is located in central province of Sri Lanka and south west to the main Kandy city. A perfect spot for nature lovers and hikers, the Uuru Kanda peak, the highest peak of Hanthana, is the most visited peak along with six other peaks located in the same range. The flora and fauna, be it the occasional bushes, wildflowers, chirping birds or the dozens of butterflies that one will discover on the way towards Hanthana, is refreshingly heart-warming. Read More

Huluganaga falls is located in a rustic town of the same name. It is approximately an hour to an hour and a half journey to reach. The rocks surrounding the waterfall and the river keep the waters from getting muddy, even during the monsoons. As the place experiences sudden and rapid surges in the water levels, it is strictly prohibited to enter the water.

Hunnas Falls is tucked away in a small village that is located approximately 22 km from Kandy. Considered to be one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Kandy, Hunas Falls is also a popular honeymoon destination. The waterfall vicinity also houses multiple hotels that are easily accessible from Kandy.

The International Buddhist Museum or World Buddhist Museum is the first of its kind in the world and is in the cultural and administrative capital of Sri Lanka Kandy. It is nestled in the complex that once served as the King’s residence along with the National Museum and Temple of the Tooth, hence its structure exhibits royalty, grandeur and elegance at its best. It compiles Buddhism, the extensive history of its teachings and depth of knowledge through scrolls, artefacts and souvenirs from all over the world. The contributions of over 17 countries can be seen here including India, Pakistan, Japan and China. The inception of Buddhism in the above countries and its applications, showcasing Buddha’s message and how it diverges into the modern world is the purpose of this museum. The World Buddhist museum hosts paintings, photographs, models and creative works of art for the days of yore. The museum spans two floors and over 20 rooms. It is aligned in a way as to induce one’s mind to a sense of simplicity, peace and spirituality away from the chaos that prevails outside. There is an air-conditioned souvenir shop at the exit of the museum that holds religious articles and gorgeous miniature takeaways. All in all, the World Buddhist museum has a name in the global front and brings forth serenity and enlightenment of mind and body! Read More

Located in Gomara, Jodu Ella Waterfall is approximately 36 km from Kandy. Also known as ‘Bambarella Knuckles falls’, this twin-falls have identical lengths of 45 meters and cascade simultaneously from both ends of the mountain into the Mahaweli River via Hulu Ganga River. A kilometer’s trek is needed to reach the falls.

Situated 47 km from Kandy, Kadiyanalena Falls is approximately a 2-hour journey from Kandy. Housing five cascades, the Kadiyanlena falls has clean natural pools at each one of them. According to locals, the first pool at the bottom is close to 100 feet deep and forbidden to use. The other four pools, lesser than 10 feet deep are relatively safer.

Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda, is an artificial lake bordering the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relics. The pathway around the lake stretches for 2.1 miles and is perfect for walking before or after visiting the temple. It provides a panoramic view of the hills and the town. Boating is also popular here. One can soak in the greenery of the adjacent Udawattekele forest reserve and watch the sunset. The lake surrounds itself with rich fauna and flora bestowed with age-old Nuga, palm, fruit, Sal, and Mara trees. Kandy Lake also provides a bird's eye view of the entire province. Daybreak and sundown are the absolute best times to visit Kandy Lake. Read More

Visiting Sri Lanka's second largest city, Kandy and not exploring Kandy viewpoint will be a major miss. Located 1.7 KM from the main Kandy city, Kandy view point is regarded as the highest point in the city from where one can appreciate Kandy lake as if just below their feet and also the Dalada Maligawa Temple. Any photography enthusiast or a nature lover would not miss a chance to get a view of Kandy during the sunset. Sunrise is even more mystical as one gets to see the sun rays bounce off of Kandy lake in a beautiful array. As the day rolls on, one can get a few snacks sheds and shopping corners. Visiting Kandy Viewpoint is not just about its picturesque beauty but also provides a quick simple adventure - a short hike through the steep slopes on the way to Kandy viewpoint to admire the magnificent panoramic view of the surroundings with an occasional misty breeze. Read More

Lankatilaka is an ancient Sinhalese temple located in between Kandy and Polonnaruwa. It is one of the most magnificent ruined sites of the country. It was built by King Parakrabahu in the 11th century and attracted archaeologists, historians and tourists all around the year. The site is an enormous 'gedige', which is a typical Buddhist temple with a corbelled roof and thick walls. The gedige is an intriguing structure, made entirely of bricks. The composition comprises of two massive pillars with a height of 17 metres and a thickness of 4 metres. In between the two components is a 14-metre high statue of Buddha, which is broken from above the shoulder. This site has two storeys, connected by an impressive staircase and the outer walls have elaborate carvings and designs which depict ancient times. The inner walls and stairway have exciting murals. Lankatilaka, a monolithic Buddha image house has irked the minds of historians for centuries. Its architecture and ruins are interesting topics amongst archaeologists. The site, with all its glory and holy atmosphere, evidently attracts tourists from all over the world and during any given time of the year. Read More

The Luckyland Spice Garden, located in Hingula, grows, cultivates and commercially sells spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, pepper and cardamom. The special Sri Lankan curry powder produced with the organically grown spices is a good buy. Visitors can also see ornamental plants such as cocoa, saffron and sandalwood at the Luckyland Spice Garden.