The air feels thick with devotion and humidity, especially as monks chant near the Temple of the Tooth, creating a serene rhythm amidst the chaos. It is no longer just a historical relic but a vibrant hub where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern tourism, making it an essential stop for any traveler seeking soulful immersion in Sri Lanka’s heartland.
Do Kandy the way locals do: start slow at Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, eat where the regulars do at Cafe Nuwara, let the evening run long at Hideout Lounge.
Top things to do in Kandy Ranked by rating and review volume. These earn their hype. Booking links may earn Roam a commission, at no cost to you.
1
Sri Dalada Maligawa
Buddhist Temple · ★ 4.7 (32,928 reviews)
Large temple featuring rituals & services around the sacred Tooth Relic, the canine tooth of Buddha.
Check tours & tickets 3
Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya
Buddhist Temple · ★ 4.6 (3,367 reviews)
Steep stairs lead to hilltop views from this Buddhist place of worship with a souvenir shop.
Check tours & tickets 4
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
National Park · ★ 4.4 (3,360 reviews)
Wildlife viewing is popular within this large forest with hiking trails & interpretive information.
Check tours & tickets 6
Arthur's Seat View Point, Kandy
Scenic Spot · ★ 4.6 (1,940 reviews)
Lookout point with a single symbolic chair for photographs, with views of Kandy Lake & city.
Check tours & tickets Where to eat Local favorites, not tourist traps.
11
Cafe Nuwara
Restaurant · ★ 4.6 (6,736 reviews)
Website 12
Soul Food
Restaurant · ★ 4.8 (3,933 reviews)
Website 13
Organica Lounge Kandy
Restaurant · ★ 4.8 (2,950 reviews)
14
The Grand Kandyan Hotel
Hotel · ★ 4.4 (4,982 reviews)
Elegant hillside property featuring sweeping country views, plus a spa, restaurants & a pool.
Website 15
Fab Ceylon
Restaurant · ★ 4.4 (4,936 reviews)
16
Hungry Brunch Café & Restaurant
Restaurant · ★ 4.9 (1,617 reviews)
17
Hideout Lounge
Restaurant · ★ 4.5 (3,038 reviews)
Website 18
Cafe Secret Alley
Cafe · ★ 4.7 (2,119 reviews)
Website Hungry for more? Book a food tour or tasting in Kandy
Tours worth booking ahead These sell out, so lock them in early.
20
Scenic Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk
point_of_interest, establishment · ★ 5 (277 reviews)
Check tours & tickets 21
Tour Operators Sri Lanka - Breath Sri Lanka Tours
Tour Agency · ★ 5 (266 reviews)
Check tours & tickets Get outside 25
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
National Park · ★ 4.4 (3,360 reviews)
Wildlife viewing is popular within this large forest with hiking trails & interpretive information.
26
Kandy Viewpoint
Tourist Attraction · ★ 4.6 (1,715 reviews)
27
Pettigala Kandy
Hiking Area · ★ 4.7 (331 reviews)
28
Hanthana International Bird Park & Recreation Center
Park · ★ 3.6 (1,317 reviews)
Website 29
Hanthana Mountain View Point
Hiking Area · ★ 4.6 (250 reviews)
After dark 30
Hideout Lounge
Restaurant · ★ 4.5 (3,038 reviews)
Website 31
Slightly Chilled Lounge, Sports Bar & Restaurant
Asian Fusion Restaurant · ★ 4.3 (2,482 reviews)
Website 32
Royal Bar & Hotel
Bar · ★ 4.3 (872 reviews)
Website 33
Hangout Late night Kandy
Restaurant · ★ 4.5 (465 reviews)
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