The Hill Country, Sri Lanka
Kandy has a tropical rainforest climate, with average temperatures staying stable throughout the year, from 20°C to 29°C (68°F to 84°F). This consistent warmth means you can visit Kandy at any time, but certain periods bring more comfortable weather or unique events. Humidity levels stay high, typically around 70-80%, due to its tropical setting. The city's elevation makes the heat less intense than in coastal areas, making Kandy a pleasant destination even in warmer months.
The dry season generally runs from December to April. During these months, Kandy sees less rainfall and clearer skies. This period often feels the most pleasant for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring the Royal Botanical Gardens, and walking around Kandy Lake. Lower humidity also brings more comfort for sightseeing. However, this period is the high tourist season. Expect more people at popular spots like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and higher prices for accommodation and flights. Booking your travel and lodging well ahead of time is very good if you plan to visit during these months.
A special event for Kandy is the Esala Perahera Festival. This grand annual Buddhist festival usually happens in July or August, with dates changing based on the lunar calendar. It is a spectacular event with decorated elephants, dancers, drummers, and fire performers. Accommodation prices go up very high, and booking is necessary many months ahead. If going to this festival is your main goal, plan your trip around its dates, understanding there will be more people and higher costs.
Tropical cyclones are rare but can touch Sri Lanka, mainly during inter-monsoon periods (October-November and April-May). Weather forecasts are good for watching conditions during these times. Extreme temperatures are not typical in Kandy; its elevation generally keeps it cooler than coastal areas, preventing intense heat often found elsewhere on the island. The city gives a comfortable climate for exploration for much of the year, provided you pack appropriately for the weather.
December - April
Less rainfall, clear skies, good for outdoor activities, more comfortable sightseeing.
High tourist season, larger crowds, higher prices for lodging and flights.
May - November
Smaller crowds, potentially lower prices, lush green landscapes, impressive waterfalls.
More substantial rainfall, afternoon showers, possible slippery trails.
July / August (Lunar Calendar)
Spectacular cultural event, elaborate processions, unique experience.
Sky-high accommodation prices, bookings needed many months in advance, very large crowds.
For hiking and trekking, the dry season (December to April) makes for the most favorable conditions with less chance of slippery trails. Cultural sightseeing, like visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, is possible all year, but the dry season offers more comfortable outdoor walking. Tea plantation visits also happen year-round; the dry season might give clearer views for photography, while the wet season makes the plantations look notably lush.
Tropical cyclones are rare but can touch Sri Lanka, mainly during inter-monsoon periods (October-November and April-May). Weather forecasts are good for watching conditions during these times. Extreme temperatures are not typical in Kandy; its elevation generally keeps it cooler than coastal areas, preventing the intense heat often found elsewhere on the island. The city has a comfortable climate for exploration for much of the year, if you pack correctly for the expected weather.
Choose your travel dates based on what you want to experience most in Kandy.
If visiting during peak dry season or major festivals, book accommodation and flights far in advance.
During the wet season, a Lightweight rain jacket or a Compact umbrella is helpful.
Kandy's elevation means comfortable temperatures for exploring for much of the year.
Large festivals like Esala Perahera will mean higher costs and more people, plan accordingly.
Most nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. The ETA is a straightforward system; you apply online before your trip, streamlining your arrival. You can apply for the ETA via the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration website. Use the official government portal to avoid fake sites. The application process is simple, asking for personal details, passport information, and your travel itinerary. You usually receive approval via email within a few hours or days.
Sri Lanka offers several types of ETAs for different travel purposes. The Tourist ETA is the most common, giving a double entry and a stay of up to 30 days. This option works for most short to mid-length leisure trips. For business visits, a Business ETA is open, giving multiple entries for 30 days. There is also a Transit ETA, which allows a single entry for up to two days, good if you are just passing through Sri Lanka. Pick the ETA type that matches your travel plans.
Entry fees for the ETA change by nationality and ETA type. For most tourist ETAs, the fee for US citizens is currently around US$50. These fees may change, so check the official ETA website for the newest information before applying. Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), go to immigration. Show your passport and ETA approval. Immigration officials may take your fingerprints and a photograph. The process usually runs smoothly, but be ready for lines during busy arrival times.
Find a policy that gives you peace of mind during your travels. Various providers specialize in different types of coverage.
The official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Currency exchange services are readily available upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and at banks and authorized money changers within Kandy. ATMs are also widely available in Kandy city, making cash withdrawals easy. Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard) work in most mid-range and luxury places, including hotels and larger restaurants. However, cash is often needed for smaller vendors, local transportation like tuk-tuks and buses, and market purchases. Always carry smaller rupee denominations for daily expenses.
Your daily budget for Kandy can change a lot based on your travel style. Here is a breakdown for different types of travelers:
Budget Traveler: US$35-75 per day. This means comfortable guesthouses/hostels (US$15-30), local food (US$10-20), cheap transport (US$5-10), and entry to one major attraction (US$5-15).
Mid-Range Traveler: US$100-200 per day. This covers comfortable guesthouses/boutique hotels (US$40-80), meals at mid-range restaurants (US$25-50), more frequent private tuk-tuks/taxis (US$15-30), and entry to major attractions (US$20-40).
Luxury Traveler: US$300+ per day. This allows for luxury hotels/resorts (US$150+), fine dining (US$70+), private cars with drivers (US$50+), and curated tours (US$50+).
Getting around Kandy means various price points, from local buses to taxis. Prices are generally low for public options.
Local Bus: < $1/ride
Tuk-tuk (short ride): $1-3/ride, Taxi (short ride via app): $3-7/ride
Entry fees for major attractions in Kandy are quite reasonable, making it possible to visit sites without breaking the bank.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: ~$10-15/entry
Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya: ~$10-15/entry
Stretch your budget further with these smart spending tips.
Use local buses and trains; they are much cheaper than private transfers. Eat at local 'rice and curry' shops and street food vendors.
Bargain politely for tuk-tuk fares if a meter is not used; confirm the price before starting. Walk to nearby attractions around Kandy Lake.
| Recipient | Guideline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 5-10% (if service charge not added) | A 10% service charge is often added. If not, round up or add 5-10%. |
| Tuk-tuk drivers | Round up to nearest 50-100 LKR | Good for short rides, especially if no meter. |
| Hotel Staff (Porters, Housekeepers) | 100-200 LKR | A small gesture for kind service. |
Always discuss vaccinations with your doctor before your trip and know how to deal with common health issues.
Talk to a travel health clinic or your doctor several weeks before you go about needed and suggested vaccinations.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is needed if you come from or pass through Yellow Fever countries.
Vaccinations often include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus-Diphtheria, MMR, Hepatitis B, and Rabies (for high-risk travelers).
Traveler's Diarrhea:
Drink only sealed bottled water, avoid ice cubes, and choose hot, cooked food. Wash your hands often. Consider a LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle as a backup.
Dengue fever (mosquito-borne): Use Strong insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk. Wear long sleeves and pants. Sleep under mosquito nets if available. Sunburn and heatstroke: Use High-SPF sunscreen, wear hats, stay hydrated, avoid long sun exposure during peak hours.
Health kit example: Adventure Medical Kits
Private hospitals (Kandy Private Hospital, Hemas Hospital) offer good facilities and English-speaking staff.
Pharmacies are widely available, stocking common medications.
Police (119), Ambulance/Fire (110). Have your country's embassy/consulate contact handy.
Tap water in Kandy is generally not safe for direct use. Always use sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Be careful with street food; pick vendors that look clean and have lots of customers.
Kandy generally feels safe for tourists, but small crimes can happen. Pickpocketing and bag snatching might occur in busy areas. Stay watchful, keep valuables safe, and do not show large amounts of cash or expensive electronics.
Can happen in crowded areas like bus stations, markets, and near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Stay alert.
Be careful of unasked-for guides or touts at tourist places; only use official guides or those your lodging suggests.
Be careful when out at night, especially if alone. Avoid walking in dimly lit or empty areas after dark.
