TravPa
White walls and the red-roofed octagonal pavilion at Kandy's Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Kandy

Spend time at the Temple of the Tooth and along the lake, then leave town for botanical collections and the story of Ceylon tea.

Approved by TravPa Editors, Nov 4, 2026
The octagonal pavilion and white walls mark the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

Itineraries

White walls and the red-roofed octagonal pavilion at Kandy's Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
The octagonal pavilion and white walls mark the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Kandy in 2 daysTemple of the Tooth, World Buddhist Museum, Kandy Lake, Upper Lake Drive, Peradeniya Gardens, Ceylon Tea Museum2 days, Sri LankaBalanced pace

Where to stay

A central base reduces transfers on the temple day. Lakeside slopes offer views, while Peradeniya suits the garden day but adds a journey into town.

The areas: Town center, South lake and Upper Lake Drive, Peradeniya.

Where to stay in Kandy: areas and adviceHotels in Kandy

Places to see

All things to do in Sri Lanka
ViewpointArthur's Seat on Upper Lake DriveAn elevated view across the lake helps make sense of Kandy's compact center.Entry: Roadside viewpoint; use the designated viewing area and skip in poor visibility.
MuseumCeylon Tea MuseumOld machinery and displays explain tea production in a former factory above Kandy.Entry: Closed Monday. Tue to Fri 8:30 AM to 4 PM; weekends 8 AM to 5 PM. Check child eligibility at the counter.
MarketKandy Central MarketA compact stop for produce and everyday shopping away from the temple courtyards.Entry: Public market; individual traders choose their hours.
NatureKandy Lake shore at Queen's BathA lakeside path links the temple edge with views across water to the surrounding hills.Entry: Walk the public shore; the pin marks Queen's Bath beside the temple, not an entrance into the lake.
TransportKandy Railway StationA central transport landmark south of the market, useful for meeting an onward transfer.Entry: Illustrative meeting landmark: agree the actual pickup with your driver. Rail alternatives need a separate fare and timetable check.
MuseumNational Museum of KandyObjects from the Kandyan period occupy part of the former royal palace setting.Entry: Admission LKR[fee]. Tuesday to Saturday; check public-holiday closure before traveling.
NatureRoyal Botanic Gardens, PeradeniyaPalm avenues, orchids and plant collections fill a large garden beside the Mahaweli River.Entry: Admission LKR[fee]. Use the main entrance on the Colombo-Kandy road; the map pin is inside the garden.
TempleTemple of the Sacred Tooth RelicA major Buddhist pilgrimage complex beside Kandy Lake, best approached with time and respect.Entry: Use official onsite ticket machines. Covered shoulders and knees; expect shoe storage and security checks.
MuseumWorld Buddhist MuseumCountry galleries introduce Buddhist traditions beyond Sri Lanka within the temple complex.Entry: Included in the temple visitor ticket; retain it and check the open galleries on arrival.
FoodWorldSpice at Kandy City CentreA central indoor dining option between the lake, market and temple district.Entry: Choose an open counter on Level 4 and check its menu.