Kandy The Hill Country, Sri Lanka Travel Guide
Buses are the main form of public transport within Kandy and to nearby towns. Both private (often red) and public (blue and white) buses are in service on various routes. They represent a very affordable way to get around, although they can be crowded, especially during busy hours. No metro or tram systems operate in Kandy; coaches are the only widespread public transit.
Kandy Central Bus Stand is the main hub for regional and long-distance buses. From here, you can find buses to almost anywhere in the metropolis or to other towns and villages in the Central Province. Local bus routes cover most areas of Kandy. Route maps are not widely available in English, so asking locals or the bus conductor for help with your destination is common. They usually help direct you to the correct bus or stop.
Typically less than US$1 for city travel. Pay for the conductor with small LKR notes.
From early morning (~5 AM) to late evening (~10 PM), with high frequency on main routes.
Ask hotel staff or a trusted local for the correct bus number and route to your destination. They can give accurate information.
Metered taxis are rare; most "taxis" are private cars with negotiated fares. Always agree on the fare BEFORE starting your journey.
PickMe is the most popular local app, offering tuk-tuks, cars, and vans. Uber also runs in Kandy (Uber Tuk, cars).
Apps offer driver ID, vehicle details, and LOCATION tracking. Always check this information match before getting in. Agree on price if hailing on street.
Taxis are outside Kandy Railway Station and the principal bus depot. For lodging, using an app or negotiating at a marked stand is good.
Sri Lanka drives on the left side of the road.
Generally 50 km/h in urban areas and 70 km/h in rural areas (often disregarded).
Can be hard in crowded urban zones, especially around major attractions.
While Kandy does not have very specialized ways to travel like cable cars, it offers some unique ways to get around or see the sights.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for hiking in Kandy. The city is hilly, and many areas, including temple compoundes, mean stairs and uneven surfaces.
Walk Smart
Stick to tranquiler side streets or the lakeside promenade for relaxed pedestrian experiences. Always be careful and aware when walking near traffic.
Cycle with Caution
Look into specific attractions and their accessibility features ahead of time to plan your itinerary effectively if you have mobility challenges.
Plan Ahead
While Kandy does not feature advanced urban transport systems like subways or cable cars, it still offers ways to move around the city or access particular locations.
Kandy's main modes of transport are road-based (buses, tuk-tuks, cars) and rail for inter-city travel.
Kandy does not have cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems found in some other hill stations.
Research specific attractions and their accessibility features ahead of time to plan your itinerary effectively.
Navigating Kandy is part of the adventure. Embrace the local transit options, but always prioritize your comfort and safety. With a bit of planning, getting around this charming city can be as enjoyable as the sights themselves.
Consider a mix of walking for short distances, ride-hailing apps for convenience, and trains for scenic long-distance journeys. This way, you get the full Kandy experience.
