What Is the Best Time to Visit Kandy and More

A trip to Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, Kandy, offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and vibrant local traditions. Blessed with the spiritual serenity of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the lush greenery of botanical gardens, and the breathtaking views of rolling hills, Kandy is a city that is for everyone. No matter your idea of a good time, the charming hill city never fails to delight. Here’s the best time to visit and much more to help you make the most of your trip to Kandy.

Choose the Best Time to Visit

The majority opinion has that the best time to visit Kandy is from December to April, which is considered the dry season in the region when rainfall is minimal, and the weather is ideal for getting outdoors and engaging in activities like sightseeing and trekking. The shoulder season from May to June, and the month of November is also worth considering as it makes a good compromise between light rains, fewer crowds and attractive prices. Many travellers choose to avoid the monsoon season from July to October, but a visit during these months isn’t totally doable and certainly won’t be the worst thing in the world.

Must-Visit Attractions

The crown jewel of the hill capital, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, is high on the itinerary for all travellers to Kandy as it is the world-renowned tourist attraction that single-handedly put the charming city on the map for most if not all its travellers. The Royal Botanical Gardens is also an unmissable stop, especially for longing nature lovers, while hilltop views from the Big Buddha temple are mind-blowing, to say the least. The Kandy Lake at the heart of the city is certainly an iconic attraction, but tranquillity is never its strong suit. If something peaceful and quiet is what you are looking for, the Udawattakele Forest Reserve in the hills is the place to be.

Getting to and Around Kandy

Kandy is located 120 kilometres from Colombo, which is home to the country's only operational international airport. The best way to travel to Kandy is by train, as it offers convenience and stunning views of the mountains and tea plantations. This journey is considered one of the most scenic train rides in Sri Lanka. If you prefer more flexibility during your trip, hiring a private car with a driver is an excellent option. Once you arrive in Kandy, tuk-tuks are the most convenient way to navigate the city.

Food and Dining

Your holiday in Kandy wouldn’t be complete without getting a taste of the island nation’s authentic cuisine. Embark on an exploration of local cuisine at a fine city hotel in Kandy, including the likes of Hotel Topaz, and let the true foodie in you unleash.

Day Trips from Kandy

When it comes to day trips from Kandy, Sigiriya is surely high on the list — another world-renowned tourist attraction that needs no introduction. With only a 3-hour drive from Kandy and popular panoramic views that are too good to resist passing up, Sigiriya is obviously a favourite. Knuckles Mountain Range is also a popular day-trip destination from Kandy, especially among avid explorers and nature lovers.

Cultural Experiences

Authentic cultural experiences are a quintessential element of any holiday spent in Kandy, for it is literally the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. As the sun goes down and darkness descends, indulge yourself in the most authentic form of nightlife by watching a Kandyan dance performance. The Kandy Esala Perahera is the most anticipated event of the city, where a grand procession takes place in Kandy City every August.