Kandy, Sri Lanka - A Travel Guide
Last Updated: December 19, 2024
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You Can't Handle The Tooth
Kandy is one of Sri Lanka's largest, most cherished and loved cities in the heart of the country.
The city lies amid the mountains, blossoming with wonderful tea plantations and lush green countryside. And despite being a popular and busy city, it is magically at one with nature and its scenery. Its beauty knows no end.
Due to its popularity, the city is incredibly energetic and lively, especially during the annual festival of Esala Perahera.
Kandy, Sri Lanka is also the start of one of the greatest, most frustrating, beautiful, crazy and fascinating train journeys. The Kandy to Ella train will leave you on the edge of your seat or hanging out the door, and with memories that will last a lifetime.
In this Kandy travel guide, I will show you the magical city in all its glory. We will look at the Temple of the Tooth, the famous Esala Perahera, Kandy Lake, the Botanical Gardens and all the best things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Similarly, I'll show you where to eat and sleep and what to expect as you enter a city you will never forget.
All this and more from my four days in the city in 2018.
What's Kandy, Sri Lanka Like?
Firstly, you're missing out if you are in Sri Lanka and don't visit Kandy. It is truly magnificent in every way.
Kandy is different to other places in Sri Lanka. It's spotlessly clean and tidy, and no one is on the hustle. You don't get shouted at, asked into every shop or even followed around.
However, you still know you're in Sri Lanka. There are people, tuck-tuks, bikes and cars everywhere. It's noisy, vibrant and exciting. Nevertheless, that sense of Sri Lankan history, beauty, architecture, organisation, smells and culture remains. Yet, there's a hint of modernism and superiority about Kandy.
The Kandyan people are proud to be from Kandy and so they should. Kandy feels more affluent and important, yet remains grounded at the same time.
However, the most noticeable thing about Kandy is how tied to nature it is. The stunning colonial, often whitewashed, buildings are shrouded in a rainbow of greens.
Trees line the streets and nature is claiming back the land. Everywhere you look greenery cloaks the landscape. Around Kandy Lake, the hills are a multitude of greens interspersed with white buildings and orangey-red rooftops.
Kandy, Sri Lanka is the perfect mix of nature, city living and culture whilst keeping real to its historical past.
How to get to Kandy, Sri Lanka
Kandy is about as central as it gets in Sri Lanka and has some of the most impressive and famous travel links on the island.
Of course, I'm talking about the famed Kandy to Ella train. You know it, the one where models hang out the door smiling away with long flowing dresses they happened to have picked out the wardrobe that morning. Anyway, more on that in a minute.
Anyone arriving in Kandy at the train or bus station (opposite each other) will find themselves a short ten-minute walk from the centre of town, to the northeast. Of course, there are the trusty tuk-tuks should you not want to lug your gear around. You couldn't have arrived in a better location.
However, there isn't an airport nearby, meaning unless you're self-driving or being dropped by a taxi, the bus and train are your only options.
Kandy To Ella Train/ Ella to Kandy
Okay, so I have to start with the Kandy to Ella train journey, which begins here, in Kandy.
Now, as the journey title suggests, this means you're leaving Kandy for Ella. However, what a lot of people don't know, is that you can get the same train from Ella or Nuwara Eliya to Kandy. It's just as scenic, but less stressful and less crowded. Hence, if you're coming from any town south of Kandy, that's exactly what you should do.
Get yourself to Ella and then enjoy the bliss of the Kandy to Ella train but in reverse. For a full rundown of the journey (Kandy to Ella) check out my complete guide here.
How to get to Kandy from Dambulla
There are three main ways of getting from Dambulla to Kandy, self-drive, taxi or bus.
Taxi
A taxi will take roughly one hour and forty-five minutes costing around 8,500₨ (£23).
Self Drive
Again, I've not done this, but I don't think you'd beat the taxi, so it will probably take around two hours. After all, they know the roads and the laws...
Public Transport
Next to Dambulla's 'famous' clock tower is the bus station.
From here, the quickest way to Kandy is to board the number 43 or the 857 which hits the sonic boom and gets you there in two hours. Otherwise, again, it's the 15 or 82 to Colombo Fort. Get off at Kurunegala Long Term stop and walk up to the Kurunegala Bus Stand, where you'll need to board the 602 to Kandy Goods Bus Shed.
Either bus journey you pick will cost you no more than a quid. I know which of the two I'd choose.
How to Get To Kandy from Colombo/ the Airport
From Colombo Airport take a taxi, which will take about two hours and thirty minutes.
Or, to save money, not time, take a short five-minute taxi ride to Bus Station Katunayake and jump on the 21-1 or the 245 to Badulla. It will take around three hours and twenty minutes and is, by far, the cheapest way of getting Kandy.
From Colombo, you again, have three options.
Taxi
The taxi will take roughly two and a half hours and costs around 18,000₨ (£49).
Self Drive
Again, I've not done this, and unless you get a tuk-tuk and take it easy, from my experience f the roads in Sri Lanka, driving from Colombo is going to be a royal pain in the ass. The driving is shocking, and it's not as easy as from Dambulla to Kandy where the roads are quieter.
Public Transport
Take the number 001 coach from Colombo Fort Bus Stop to Kandy Goods Shed Bus Stand. The journey costs about 500₨ (£1.40) and should take under four hours.
Timing Your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Kandy, Sri Lanka?
While there are many things to see and do in Kandy, they aren't all-day events. You could easily tick off three or four a day. However, you also don't want to rush.
Therefore, I'd suggest three whole days in Kandy is about right. It gives you a chance to explore the surrounding hills and tea fields and experience the delightful dishes at your leisure.
The Best Time Of The Year To Visit Kandy, Sri Lanka
Normally, I'd start by talking about the weather and how avoiding the rain is important... which it is. However, for me, as I bang on about a lot in this travel guide to Kandy, you want to experience the Esala Perahera.
The Esala Perahera is a festival that occurs once a year in July or August, depending on the full moon and lasts for ten days. If you can visit during the festival, that is the best time of year to visit Kandy.
Although, if you're more worried about having less rainfall and more sun, you should aim for January to April.
Where to Stay In Kandy, Sri Lanka
Due to how Kandy stretches along the banks of the fast-flowing Mahaweli Ganga and around Dunumadalawa Forest Reserve, there isn't one zone that houses all of the best things to do in Kandy.
Therefore, Kandy has an overload of accommodation scattered throughout the town and surrounding areas. No matter where you want to stay in Kandy you will find good, cheap accommodation and plenty to do nearby.
Nevertheless, I'd recommend staying towards the city centre, which roughly translates to the northeast of Kandy Train Station and the northwest of Kandy Lake.
Why? Because it's within striking distance of the train and bus station, it's close to the lake, within a short walk of the Temple of the Tooth and surrounding attractions, as well as, being close to many taxis and tuk-tuks should you want to go further afield.
Here is my suggestion. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Sarvodaya Samma Vaasa
- What: Budget three-star hotel with a cosy and friendly vibe.
- Where: Overlooking the northeast corner of Kandy Lake. Five minutes from the Temple of the Tooth. (map)
- Why: It's cosy, friendly and relaxing. Plus, you can walk into the centre of Kandy in less than ten minutes.
- Why Not: You cannot leave any windows open in your room, or the pesky wild monkeys will steal your belongings.
Firstly, the staff were fantastic in every way. They couldn't do enough for us and had a lot of local knowledge, which came to good use.
Likewise, the rooms were fantastic, spacious, clean, tidy, and oh-so comfy. Because we were staying in this hotel I wanted to stay in Kandy Sri Lanka even longer. It was magnificent.
Furthermore, if you have a lakeside room, you'll have stunning views across Kandy Lake and onto the colonial houses on the hill.
However, no matter where your room is located, if you leave your window open, wild monkeys can and will climb in. I'm not saying they will steal your underwear, but at best, they will take your food.
Overall it's a delightful hotel, and I would thoroughly recommend it. I didn't see any parking, so if you have transport check that out first.
In January 2025, two people can stay for three nights for an incredible £45. That's cheaper than buying a tent and sleeping next to Kandy Lake.
Further Accommodation in Kandy, Sri Lanka
If, for some reason, that doesn't sound like somewhere you'd want to stay, I have, as always, added my trusty trio of accommodation sites below.
Between the three, they cover every type, price and style of accommodation in Kandy.
For reference, over the same few days in March Hostelworld has deals starting at, get this, £4 a night. That's insane. Airbnb starts from around £20 a night and goes up to £425 a night, while booking.com ranges from around £16 a night to thousands.
You know you and what you want, but I know where I'd be looking if Sarvodaya Samma Vaasa was fully booked.
Best things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka
As mentioned, there are several attractions and things to do in Kandy. However, the one thing that tops it all is the Esala Perahera, and I'd aim to coincide your trip with that. I mention that below.
Nevertheless, that brings the issue of crowds and busy attractions in Kandy. Yet, I still think it's worth it.
Excluding the once-a-year Esala Perahera, all the things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka are spread across this sprawling city. Some are located in the central hub and madness of Kandy, whilst other delights await a little further out, such as tea plantations and the Botanical Gardens.
Luckily, the attractions out of the centre are easily accessible by taxi or tuk-tuk. Both are super easy to locate and flag down and are very cheap.
With that said, let's look at the best things to do in Kandy.
- Watch the Fascinating and Enchanting Esala Perahera
- Sup on Liquid Gold at the New Giragama Tea Factory
- Relax amid the Tranquillity of The Royal Botanical Gardens
- Discover the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth)
- Explore the Royal Palace and World Buddhist Museum
- Circumnavigate Kandy Lake on Foot
- Walk Around the British Garrison Cemetery
- Pay Your Respects at Kandy's War Cemetery
And where better to start than the magic of the festival?
Watch the Fascinating and Enchanting Esala Perahera
- Why: You'll experience fire dancers, music, elephants and a massive party vibe.
- Where: The parade proceeds around Kandy. One of the best spots is on Colombo Street - here (map)
- How long: It depends on what day of the celebrations you watch it. Each day gets longer.
- How much: You can enjoy the whole procession for free.
This is one of the most enchanting and important celebrations in Buddhism. It's said to be a true honour to participate in the parade around Kandy.
The Esala Perahera is a precession in July or August, depending on the full moon. The celebration lasts 10 days and grows daily, celebrating the sacred tooth of the Lord Buddha.
The festival starts at the Temple of the Tooth, meanders around Kandy and ends back at the temple.
The parade is a procession of colour, fire, noise, dance and showmanship. It is fantastic to see so much history and culture take to the streets of Kandy. The outfits and costumes are a marvel as are the fire shows and lights throughout. The musicians provide the final pièce de résistance to the performance.
The elephants are the stars of the show. They stand tall over the parade and provide magic on every level. Overall, this was easily the best thing to do in Kandy. I highly advise you to visit Kandy, Sri Lanka during this celebration.
**It is equally important to say that the use of elephants did bother me. I like to see them free in the wild. Albeit upon seeing the elephants after the show, they seemed happy and healthy. Plus, I could see the owners had a bond with them like I have with my family. I truly believe they were happy.**
Sup on Liquid Gold at the New Giragama Tea Factory
- Why: Who needs a reason? When tea is offered, you take it. Plus, it is interesting.
- Where: Around forty minutes from Kandy centre near the town of Pilimathalawa. (map)
- How long: With the journey times from Kandy, you'll need at least three to four hours.
- How much: It is free to enter, but a personal guided tour will cost, as will a cake and cuppa.
There are several tea plantations and factories within the mountainous region surrounding Kandy. So being a massive tea fan, it's fair to say I was one happy bunny. There was no way I could pass up this opportunity.
A happy, friendly member of staff met us at the entrance and gave us a very informative and interesting talk about tea. From there we explored the factory floor and watched the inner workings and production. You get to watch the leaves transform into liquid gold.
The staff are fantastic and incredibly knowledgeable about tea and its production. They were able to answer any random questions and explained everything exceptionally.
Since my visit, they have moved locations, and are now just down the road from the original site. Therefore, things are crisp, clean, and much more modern than at the previous factory.
After you've explored the factory, the cafe is well worth a visit. Even if you only have a cup of tea and cake this place is fantastic. However, as in the previous factory, the bar is stacked with every type of tea the factory produces.
It's the ideal place to buy a few presents for loved ones or cough, cough - your favourite travel bloggers!
Relax amid the Tranquillity of the Royal Botanical Gardens
- Why: It's magical, colourful and peaceful with numerous flowers, trees and wildlife.
- Where: Fifteen-minute tuk-tuk ride south of Kandy centre in the district of Peradeniya. (map)
- How long: Lose yourself in the gardens and spend at least half a day here.
- How much: Again, foreigners pay more. Here it will cost us 3,000₨ (£8.23).
On the western fringes of Kandy are the vast, colourful floral grounds of the Royal Botanical Gardens surrounded by the mighty and fast-flowing Mahaweli Ganga.
This spot has been a royal garden for centuries, yet opened to the public in 1821.
The beautiful gardens are endless, with around 4,000 varieties of plants, grass and trees from around the world. The lakes are stunning and provide a haven for many animals, as do the treetops. You'll spot several species of insects, bats, birds, mammals, and occasionally something a little larger.
The colour and beauty coupled with the peace and tranquillity is a saviour and a far cry from Kandy itself. I highly recommend visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens as it is easily one of the best things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
I also couldn't let this section go without mentioning the cafe on the main field. The buffet-style Sri Lankan lunch, whilst pricey (for Sri Lanka) at 2,500LKR (£6.90), is out of this world.
Discover the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth)
- Why: The building is beautiful and you might see the tooth of the Buddha.
- Where: On the northern shores of Kandy Lake near Maligawa Bus Stand. (map)
- How long: Once inside, you'll need half an hour tops.
- How much: A non SAARC 'forigener' will pay 2000₨ (£5.50). This price also includes access to my next suggestion.
The Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is the main permanent attraction in Kandy.
The fancy architecture and brilliance of the temple's design far outweigh any other building in the city.
However, Kandy's Temple of the Tooth reveals its true beauty as darkness falls. Hundreds of lightbulbs illuminate the walls causing a sparkling array of elegance.
As with the caves to the north in Dambulla, you must wear respectful clothing covering your shoulders and knees. Furthermore, you cannot take your shoes inside, this includes carrying them or in a backpack.
Thus, you have to leave them on a shoe rack. Of course, this requires a small donation, which whilst of little value, is annoying. They might as well add it to the value of the entrance ticket.
The temple is of huge cultural significance in Sri Lanka and houses the left canine of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha.
Three ceremonies a day take place at the temple, each lasting an hour and a half, starting at 5:30am, 9:30am and 6:30pm.
Inside was a colourful affair with people praying in all directions, colourful corridors, large elephant tusks and exquisite wooden designs, pillars, interior structures, statues and other relics.
Disclaimer: I visited in August, during the final few days of the Esala Perahera. Therefore, it was manically busy. We were rushed through the interior and didn't get the right vibe. Hopefully, this isn't normally the case.
Explore the Royal Palace and World Buddhist Museum
- Why: Both are free entry once you pay for the Sri Dalada Maligawa/Temple of the Tooth ticket.
- Where: Behind the Temple of the Tooth on the northern banks of Kandy Lake. (map)
- How long: A few minutes in each. Jokes aside, you won't need more than half an hour.
- How much: If you buy a ticket for the Temple of the Tooth this is free. I wouldn't pay more than that either.
Well, where to start? I don't know what to make of the World Buddhist Museum. But, I do know, that the name 'World Buddhist Museum' may be a little deceiving.
I like how they walk you through how Buddhism has grown and affected different countries. The idea's there, but I found it a little uninspiring, dull and boring. Unless you're into your history on a very niche subject (in this case the Buddha), I'd give it a miss.
However, if you're looking to kill some time or the topic interests you, then why not? It's worth taking a little look.
Nevertheless, the World Buddhist Museum is fantastic compared to the Royal Palace Museum. I don't believe this should have the title of 'museum'. This small building holds a couple of archaeological artefacts, but they are basic.
Luckily, just in case you don't know what each artefact is, they are labelled. Such displays include 'stone' or 'brush', which funny enough, were the best items on display. Mental!
As a result, if you end up missing out on this Royal Palace, please do not worry. You are the lucky ones.
Circumnavigate Kandy Lake on Foot
- Why: It's peaceful and tranquil, and who doesn't like being by the water?
- Where: Next to the centre of Kandy Town and the Temple of the Tooth. (map)
- How long: Depending on how fast you walk or if you walk the whole lake. Give yourself an hour. Enjoy it.
- How much: My favourite word in the travel world - free.
In the heart of Kandy adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth, is the sumptuous Kiri Muhuda (Kandy Lake).
The manmade lake has a circumference of 2.1 miles and is a pure delight to stroll around. The calm surface reflects the houses on the hill that surround three-quarters of the lake.
The views up to the old colonial houses are beautiful, yet, the best time to be on Kandy Lake is at night, when the staggering Temple of the Tooth reflects and shimmers across the whole lake.
Uniquely, the central island comes to life at night too, as the statue lights up providing a wonderful focal point.
Surprisingly, every aspect of the lake is clean and tidy, and the shores are well-maintained. Walking around Kandy Lake is peaceful, relaxing and great for the mind after many days of noise and chaos in Sri Lanka's mad towns and cities.
Walk Around the British Garrison Cemetery
- Why: It's close to the Temple of the Tooth, Palace and Kandy Museum and is a quirky, interesting graveyard.
- Where: Behind the Kandy National Museum. (map)
- How long: You'll only need fifteen to twenty minutes.
- How much: There is a donation box, but it's free to enter.
The British Garrison Cemetery opened in 1817 for British nationals who died in the country, with the final burial taking place in 1951.
There are 195 graves within the cemetery, which include a couple of very noteworthy people. None more so than a captain from the Battle of Waterloo, which I think is pretty cool.
The gardener who maintains the grounds is the nicest guy ever. I highly recommend you find him. After working the grounds since the 1990s he is extremely knowledgeable about the graves and those within.
He truly makes visiting the cemetery interesting and enjoyable. Plus, he's more than willing to give you a free tour.
There was talk of retirement in 2018, but I'm sure he won't. We could see how much he loved his job, it shone through. Again, there is a donation box by the gate. As always, we think it's the right thing to do.
Finally, up in the far corner, within the trees, you'll notice an old gunnery post. This was one of the outlook posts that protected Kandy from the Tamil Tigers after they attacked the city in 1998.
Pay Your Respects at Kandy's War Cemetery
- Why: It's an emotional, amazing and respectful place to see.
- Where: Overlooking the Mahaweli Ganga between the Botanical Gardens and Kandy town centre. (map)
- How long: Thirty minutes should be good.
- How much: Again, there is a donation box, but it's free.
This immaculate graveyard on the banks of the Mahaweli Ganga is a pleasure to behold and is the resting place for 203 people who fought for the British Empire in World War I or II.
Those buried here include British fighters, Sri Lankans, Indians, Africans, French, Italians and Canadians.
The cemetery is a truly moving sight that brings instant respect and emotion. The people of Kandy should be so proud of how they maintain the cemetery. It's sensational.
However, it was extra poignant for me after knowing my Grandad buried his best friend here all those years ago having been based in Colombo during World War II.
There was something here that I'd never seen or felt in a graveyard before. It could have been the surrounding beauty of the trees, the precision cutting of the flowers and grass. Maybe it was the respect, peace and elegance.
I don't know, but all I can say is that all this combined moved me like never before.
Honestly, I urge you to visit the Kandy War Cemetery. It's remarkable beyond belief, and somewhere I will never forget.
Where to Eat In Kandy, Sri Lanka
Kandy is famous for its traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, street food, and a mix of Westernised dishes.
Roti and other breads are used to accompany almost every Sri Lankan meal and make up a large part of the Kandyan diet.
That said, the Kanduan people love sweet curries and spicy street food.
Another key ingredient is fish, and the most famous fish dish in Kandy is the Ambul Thiyal, a bitter fish curry.
You can guarantee that every dish will be aromatic and full of flavour. However, if you aren't a fan of hot spicy foods be careful what you order in Kandy.
As hinted, you will find numerous Westernised meals in Kandy, and sadly many chain restaurants like KFC, Pizza Hut, Burger King and Dominos have started to pop up. Avoid them if you want to experience the real taste of Kandy.
Below are a few places I tried during my stay in Kandy, and would rate them all over any of those chain restaurants.
The Royal Garden Cafeteria
- What: Delightful cafe amid the beautiful Kandy Royal Botanical Gardens
- Where: In the heart of the Kandy Royal Botanical Gardens in the district of Peradeniya, Kandy. (map)
- How much: The lunchtime buffet costs 2,500Rs (£6.90).
Overall, I have to say this was the best meal I had in Kandy.
My mates and I opted for the buffet, and we loved it. There was a fantastic selection of foods, and the flavours were astonishing. Every bite was a mouth-bursting experience, in a good way.
As is key with buffets, you can go up as many times as you like, and yes I lost count.
It can get busy as the cafeteria is small. Nevertheless, there's no hardship waiting around in the middle of the botanical gardens enjoying the pretty views and the tranquil atmosphere.
The Cafeteria closes at 5pm and the Botanical gardens at 6pm, so this is not an option in the evening.
Midland Deli Restaurant
- What: Sri Lankan Restaurant.
- Where: On the main B519, opposite Pizza Hut on the northwest corner of Kandy Lake. (map)
- How much: A meal in Midland Deli will cost less than 1000Rs (£2.75). (menu)
Whilst, not ascetically pleasing, Midland Deli is a brilliant little find.
If you're an avid reader of my blogs, you'll know I love a big portion and the curry and sides we had here, for three, could have fed a family.
The food was beautiful and full of mouthwatering flavours. The menu couldn't have been better and the price just topped it off...
The waiter was fantastic too, he was very attentive, yet not in our face at all. He knew when to be there and when to blend into the background.
If possible, try to sit on the balcony, which is perfect for people watching on the busy street below.
Cafe Divine Street
- What: Chilled cafe serving up food from around the world.
- Where: On Colombo Street, a few minutes from the Kandy's Temple of the Tooth/Sri Dalada Maligawa. (map)
- How much: A dine-in meal will cost less than 2,000Rs (£5.50). Take away, even cheaper... Nice! (menu)
At first, you might be a little put off by the level of decor or style, which is understandable. I think the budget for the whole renovation went on the sign.
However, what they lack in Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen style interior design, they make up for in menu choice. Asian, European and American dishes and drinks make for quite a colourful menu.
Ultimately, you can get anything from a full English to a burger and fries to a nasi goreng. In truth, the local dishes are better, but, that said, if you need a taste of home, this is the place to come.
Whilst the choices are endless, and the food delicious with great-sized portions, the flavour didn't match that of my first two options.
Overall, Cafe Divine Street has a fun, friendly and relaxing atmosphere in a fairly unremarkable location, with great food at very reasonable prices.
Where to Party When Backpacking Kandy, Sri Lanka
In truth, Kandy isn't known for its nightlife or crazy party scenes.
If this is what you're looking for, I'd suggest skipping Kandy.
That said, you will find a few bars serving alcohol including the locals favourite, Arrak. The majority of the bars are to the northwest of Kandy Lake and tend to be fairly basic and close at 11pm.
However, all that changes if the Esala Perahera is in town. For those short few weeks, Kandy morphs into the biggest party in Sri Lanka.
Is Kandy, Sri Lanka Safe?
Nowadays, as with much of Sri Lanka, Kandy is safe for tourists.
While Kandy is busier and more touristy than most towns and cities in Sri Lanka, it is a safe place to explore.
The chances of becoming a victim of crime are low. The main crimes in Kandy and the surrounding areas generally wouldn't involve tourists. You're looking at cyber crimes and corruption rather than assault.
However, as I always advise when travelling, be humble and don't wear expensive and 'blingy' jewellery or show off your wealth. Likewise, by keeping a sense of your surroundings and belongings, you'll have a perfectly safe time in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Due to a lack of nightlife in Kandy, there are fewer incidents involving drunk and disorderly behaviour, meaning walking around at night is also considered safe.
As for natural disasters, Kandy's central location means it doesn't have the threat of tsunamis. However, the area is prone to flooding and landslides. Yet, these don't often cause any issues in Kandy itself. They normally affect the outer regions.
The largest threat to your safety in Kandy comes on the roads. They are not well-maintained, and busy, and incidents occur often. Again, simply watching where you're walking and knowing your surroundings should mean you avoid any accidents.
Leave a Comment
Thanks for reading my guide to all the best things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka. I'm sure we can all agree Kandy is worth visiting.
I hope you've enjoyed my thoughts and muses on Kandy, including the Kandy to Ella Train ride.
If you have found this guide useful, fun or interesting I'd love to hear from you in the comments below.
Likewise, if you think I've dropped a ball and missed something, shout it out and I'll take a look.
As always, if you're visiting Kandy, Sri Lanka and need information that isn't in this Kandy travel blog, send me a message on Insta, and I'll do my best to help.
Cheers!
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Kandy is a special place for me, and unlike many of my trips, there was a purpose for my visit. Back in World Word II, my granddad was based in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). He talked so passionately about the country and the places he visited. Whilst based in Colombo he travelled across the country, falling in love with towns and cities such as Kandy.
Sadly he died in 2005 and the stories fell quiet.
That was until 2018 when I booked a trip to Sri Lanka, and my gran asked; “are you going to Kandy?” To which, I replied, “of course”. She beckoned me over and gave me some instructions. “Go to the graveyard, and find the grave of your granddad’s best friend. He was also in the Air Force. Your Granddad carried in the coffin and buried him. Find him for me”. “I will” I replied, “What was his name?” I asked. “God knows,” she said, “just find him please”.
It was not going to be easy but I told her I would try.
Spending four days in the city, I scoured the graveyards searching for the impossible. I took photos of every grave, of every man in the airforce, just in case. I could then go back and show her the graves, hoping it would jog her memory. We told her we had found him, and showed her some photos which made her happy.
One of them had to be him, I just didn’t know which one, and with her memory, nor did she.