How to Get Around Kandy -Discover the sights and sounds of the ancient hill capital!
Kandy is the country’s last capital and home to the Temple of the Tooth, one of the most sacred sites on the island. Kandy the ancient citadel on the hills is a must for those on the tourist trail and a city worth exploring for its beauty and cultural heritage. Here are some of the best ways to explore the town and its neighboring attractions.
Walking
Walking is one of the best ways to discover the sites of Kandy city and town, albeit Kandy is the second-largest city of the country. Attractions like the Temple of the Tooth, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake, markets and other attractions can be discovered by simply taking a stroll around the city. If your accommodation is at the heart of the city, it is the ideal way to gain an understanding about how beautiful truly Sri Lanka is! Uncover many hillside alleys, pathways, little cafes, and interesting corner shops all around the city. However, opt for early morning or evening to make it more pleasant.
Tuk-tuk
It is quintessentially the most convenient way to get around, especially during afternoons and at midday, when the weather can get hot at certain times of the year. The best way to get a tuk-tuk is to get one via the Uber or Pick Me app, as some drivers tend to charge exorbitant amounts from tourists and locals alike. However, if you can negotiate a decent prize or find one with a meter, you can easily hail one off the street.
Buses
Sri Lanka public transport bus in Kandy | Image via flickr
Kandy is a large city, so if you want to discover less-discovered regions and attractions or other nearby towns, city buses are a good option. The buses are constant and cheap and services to all areas of the city and its many suburbs. The central bus station is next to the Kandy Railway Station near the clock tower. A few of the best hotels in Kandy happen to be close to the station as well. The majority of the buses here are for long-distance travel as well as for nearby towns such as Matale, Kegalle, and Ampitiya. If you plan on visiting other historical sites in towns nearby many buses are available. However, be warned that there are several bus depots, that operate in different sections in Kandy. So, ask around if you are not too sure whether you are in the correct place.
Cycling
Places to visit in Sri Lanka are many and Kandy is one of the best places to explore. Cycling is a fun way to explore the city and many rental options are available around Kandy. The Balana Pass is a historically significant point and an exciting cycle route. This is one point where the British soldiers first entered Kandy. Cycling around the Kandy Lake and its environs is popular as is the Knuckles Mountain Range, known for its luscious and tranquil beauty. Cycling at night around the town will be more tranquil than in the daytime. The traffic and congestion of the main city limits can be off-putting at times. The town area relatively closes down by around 7:00 pm; thus, fewer shops will be open and fewer people and traffic on the road. The town can get deserted at night so best to cycle with a partner in case of an emergency. A temple cycling tour to Ambakke Dewalaya, Gadaldeniya, and Lankathilaka Temple is a good option. All destinations are within a 15 km distance from Kandy's main town. Cycling treks/tours can also be organized via travel/adventure companies if you don’t want to venture solo.
