Tourism & Excursions

Tourism

Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage City, is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Nestled among misty hills, it offers a rich blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Below are some of the most notable attractions around Kandy for delegates and visitors.

Kandy City Centre / Lake Area

Temple of the Tooth in Kandy

Temple of the Tooth

The most sacred Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, known for enshrining the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha.

Lake area
Kandy Lake

Kandy Lake

A scenic man-made lake in the heart of Kandy, ideal for a peaceful stroll and evening views.

City centre
Kandy National Museum

Kandy National Museum

An important cultural museum displaying royal regalia, historic artifacts, and Kandyan heritage.

Near the lake
Old Royal Palace

Old Royal Palace

A historic royal complex that reflects the grandeur of the Kandyan kingdom and its architecture.

Heritage site
Udawatta Kele forest

Udawatta Kele

A lush forest reserve on a hill overlooking the city, perfect for nature walks and birdwatching.

Forest reserve

Hills Overlooking Kandy

Bahirawakanda Buddha statue

Bahirawakanda

A prominent hilltop shrine and white Buddha statue that offers panoramic views of Kandy and the valley below.

Hill viewpoint

Western Kandy

Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia, famous for orchids, palms, and extensive green landscapes.

Western Kandy
Ceylon Tea Museum

Ceylon Tea Museum

Located near the tea-growing region, this museum charts the rich history and heritage of Sri Lankan tea.

Tea country

East of Kandy

Northwest of Kandy

Ranawana Royal Temple

Ranawana Royal Temple

One of the historic Buddhist temples in the Kandy district, known for its architecture and spiritual importance.

Northwest of Kandy
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

A popular wildlife and conservation destination where visitors can see elephants in a protected environment.

Northwest of Kandy

Top Attractions in Sri Lanka

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Iconic UNESCO-listed rock fortress with panoramic views and historic palace ruins.

Cultural landmark
Galle Fort

Galle Fort

A historic coastal fort with colonial architecture, cafés, and scenic sea views.

Southern coast
Yala National Park

Yala National Park

One of Sri Lanka’s best wildlife reserves, famous for leopard sightings and biodiversity.

Wildlife safari
Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave Temple

A major Buddhist pilgrimage site known for cave murals and ancient statues.

Cultural site
Polonnaruwa Ancient City

Polonnaruwa Ancient City

A remarkable archaeological site featuring ancient stupas, temples, and royal palaces.

Ancient ruins
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

A revered Buddhist temple close to Colombo known for its long cultural and religious significance.

Colombo district
Bentota Beach

Bentota Beach

A popular beach destination with calm waters and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Southwest coast
Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa Beach

Known for coral gardens, surf culture, and vibrant beachside amenities.

Southwest coast
Mirissa Beach

Mirissa Beach

A scenic coastal town famed for whale watching, sunsets, and palm-lined beaches.

Southern coast