Kandy City Explore with a Local Guide by Tuk Tuk
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Kandy City Explore with a Local Guide by Tuk Tuk

Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Let’s explore some amazing sights together as you get to know my hometown. The tour starts from your hotel in Kandy. The tour includes many stops along the way and some of the important tourist attractions included in the program are the temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake, Peradeniya botanical garden, Bahirawakande Temple, Natha Devala, and Udawattakele Sanctuary & etc.

We will visit the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, situated in the Royal Palace Complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. I’ll drive you to the Queen's Bathing Pavilion, the National Museum of Kandy, the Buddhist Temple on the top oft he hill and a breathtaking view! You will also be guided through the busy part of Kandy, downtown Kandy. The city walk also includes a visit to the Kandy market, Kandy shopping area, Kandy city center and Kandy lake and surroundings.

You can customize your tour as your needed.

Available options

Kandy City Explore with a Local Guide by Tuk Tuk

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Privet Guide
Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

1

Kandy City View Point is a place to capture the picturesque view of the Kandy city. It stands overlooking the Kandy Lake with the Temple of the Tooth Relic in the background. It is a good place to visit during sunrise or sunset for an amazing panoramic view of this city surrounded by mountains. It is a popular place to take photographs. This view point is situated in Rajapihilla Mawatha. It is also called Arthur’s Seat and is supposedly the highest point in Kandy standing 550 meters above sea level.

2

Sri Lanka’s botanic Gardens have a long and proud history, punctuated by colonialism, industrial change and wars. Throughout this period the Gardens have continued to flourish, and the plant collections and herbarium grown and now days the Gardens represent a significant national asset for Sri Lanka. The plant collection and herbarium are important resources for both teaching and research, serving as reference for the different plant families, genera and species represented.

3

The Kandy Central Market is found on the aptly named Market Street and belongs to the city’s Municipal Council As such,it is sometimes referred to as the Kandy Municipal Market.It is a vital shopping location for the local populace. Hundreds of locals regularly flood into the market hoping to get their hands on fresh produce, spices, tea and a host of other essential commodities.
the market is an excellent place to immerse yourself in the local culture and get to know some of Kandy’s denizens. You can also bag some items for relatively cheap here at the market; maybe you’re looking for some authentic island memorabilia or perhaps even some produce for yourself. Particular mention should be given to the extravagant fruit stalls found on-site. Sri Lanka is a fertile land known for a diverse variety of fruits – all of which can be found and bought here. So, if you’re looking to get a real taste of the tropical delicacies the island has to offer, you should definitely check the markets out

4

The temple on the hill of Bahirawakanda, called the Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya, is most well-known to tourists for its giant Buddha statue, which can be seen from almost any point in the city of Kandy. Built in 1972, the statue shows Lord Buddha seated in the Nirvana pose, which is the position associated with his first Enlightenment. Reaching a height of more than 25 metres, it is one of the tallest statues of Buddha in Sri Lanka.

5

The Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show is a stimulating Sri Lankan Arts, Dance & Cultural Heritage Show that is a must see for any visitor who visits the historic city of Kandy. The Kandy Lake Club Dance started in 1982 with the view of having a cultural dance performance bringing together all Sri Lankan dance types to one platform. It is the first Cultural Dance Show of its kind to be established in Sri Lanka. It has since become a tourist attraction for many people visiting the country and keen on a glimpse of its rich cultural heritage. Hence it has been performing continuously for the last 35 years.

6
Stop 6

A Brief History of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a world-renowned place of worship, where the left Canine tooth of Gautama Buddha is enshrined. The temple which is venerated by thousands of local & foreign devotees and tourists daily was named as a world heritage by UNESCO in 1988.

The temple which carries a lot of value to Buddhists all over the world also has immense cultural value. The architecture is of unique Kandyan architectural style with a combination of the unique style used to build “Dalada Mandira” the shrines which housed the Sacred Tooth Relic previously in other kingdoms.

What's not included

Royal Botanical Gardens Entrance
Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Kandy

Kandy, the last royal capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Nestled in the hills, it offers a cooler climate and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

This temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. It's a major attraction for both locals and tourists.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake)

A picturesque lake in the heart of Kandy, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic sites.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

One of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia, featuring a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers. It's a great place for nature lovers and photographers.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

A forest reserve adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth, offering a peaceful retreat with walking trails, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (small fee for guided tours)

Kandy Esala Perahera

A grand festival held annually in August, featuring a vibrant procession of dancers, drummers, and elegantly decorated elephants. It's one of the most famous cultural events in Sri Lanka.

Cultural Multiple days Free (special seating may have a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.

Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Hoppers (Appa)

A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

String Hoppers (Idiyappa)

A traditional dish made from rice flour and coconut milk, steamed to form a bowl-like shape, often served with coconut sambal.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking Elephant watching Tea plantation tours Boat rides on Kandy Lake Tea tasting Spas and wellness centers Visiting temples and historic sites Attending cultural performances

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The Esala Perahera festival in August is a major highlight.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Sinhala, Tamil
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kandy is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air
  • Bandaranayake International Airport • 100 km
By train

Kandy Railway Station

By bus

Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Kandy. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable for long journeys.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Kandy Peradeniya Daluwala

Day trips

Nuwara Eliya
65 km • Full day

Known as 'Little England' for its colonial architecture and cool climate, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque town surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.

Sigiriya
100 km • Full day

Home to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The climb to the top offers stunning views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history.

Dambulla
80 km • Full day

Home to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five beautifully decorated caves with numerous Buddha statues and murals.

Festivals

Esala Perahera • August Vesak • May (date varies) Kandy Perehera • August (following the Esala Perahera)

Pro tips

  • Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Take the scenic train journey from Colombo to Kandy for a memorable experience.
  • Try local street food like kottu roti and wood apple juice for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of Kandy's history and culture.
  • Attend a cultural dance show to experience the rich traditions and heritage of the region.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 15-99
1
Childs
Age 6-14
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 3
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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