Sri Lanka's cultural capital in the central highlands, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and beautiful Kandy Lake.

About Kandy (Temple of the Tooth)

Kandy is Sri Lanka\'s second-largest city and the last capital of the ancient Sinhalese kings, beautifully situated around a man-made lake in the central highlands at 500 meters elevation. The Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is the island\'s most sacred Buddhist site, housing a relic of the Buddha\'s tooth and drawing pilgrims from across the Buddhist world. The annual Esala Perahera festival (July/August) features ten nights of costumed elephants, dancers, and drummers parading through the streets.

The city is surrounded by lush tea plantations, botanical gardens, and forest reserves. The Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya—one of the finest in Asia—showcase orchids, spice gardens, and giant Javan fig trees. The Kandy Lake walkway is perfect for evening strolls. The city also serves as the starting point for the famous Kandy-to-Ella train journey through tea country, considered one of the most scenic rail trips in the world. The cooler highland climate is a welcome relief from the coastal heat.

Nearby Landmarks

Temple of the Tooth Kandy Lake Royal Botanical Gardens Bahiravokanda Buddha Statue

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost 8000-12000 LKR (~$25-38)
Time 3-4 hours

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost N/A
Time 3-4 hours

N/A

Train (Sri Lanka Railways)

Cost 200-500 LKR
Time 2.5-3 hours
Frequency Several daily

Step-by-Step Directions

Taxi to Colombo Fort Station, then scenic train to Kandy. Or private car directly from airport.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi 8000-12000 LKR (~$25-38) 3-4 hours Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare N/A 3-4 hours Budget-conscious, app users
Train 200-500 LKR 2.5-3 hours Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

There is no practical public transport from the airport to Kandy after dark. The last intercity buses depart Colombo by about 8:00 PM. For late-night arrivals, stay in Negombo (10 km from airport) and depart for Kandy the next morning. A private car with driver can be arranged at any hour (LKR 12,000–18,000).

Luggage Tips

The journey to Kandy is long—ensure your luggage is secure and accessible for the ride. If taking the train from Colombo to Kandy (a scenic alternative), book first or second class for luggage space. Buses have overhead racks but space is limited. A private vehicle is best for families with multiple bags.

Accessibility

Kandy's hilly terrain makes wheelchair access challenging in many areas. The Temple of the Tooth has some accessible pathways but involves steps in places. Peradeniya Botanical Gardens has paved paths suitable for wheelchairs. Kandy Lake walkway is mostly flat. Hotels in the city center vary in accessibility—inquire in advance.