Getting Around Kandy
Kandy's city center is compact and navigable, making it possible to explore on foot or by using a combination of local transport options. The city sits in a hillside location, so be prepared for some elevation changes as you move about.
Walking
Walking is a practical way to explore central Kandy. The main attractions, temples, shops, and the lakeside area are within reasonable distance of each other. You can visit the Temple of the Tooth on foot, though you may need to ask locals for directions. Walking allows you to see the city at your own pace and discover smaller sights and shops that you might otherwise miss.
Tuk-Tuks (Three-Wheelers)
Tuk-tuks are the most convenient motorized option for short trips around the city. They are inexpensive, widely available, and run throughout the day and night. Fares are negotiable—aim to agree on a price of around Rs 60–70 per kilometer before starting your journey. This requires some haggling skill.
Be cautious at Kandy railway station, where tuk-tuk operators are known to overcharge tourists. It is better to catch a tuk-tuk some distance away from the railway station stand, or use ride-hailing apps instead. The operators at the station may also threaten drivers from Uber or PickMe who pick up passengers near their area.
Ride-Hailing Apps
Uber and PickMe operate in Kandy and offer an alternative to negotiating with tuk-tuk drivers. These services are particularly useful when arriving at the railway station, as using them some distance away from the official tuk-tuk stand avoids encounters with aggressive operators.
Local Buses
Suburban buses run through the city center and offer an inexpensive way to travel, though they operate on local routes rather than as a structured tourist transport system. These buses are used primarily by residents and can be crowded.
Rail, Metro, and Tram Networks
Kandy itself does not have an internal rail, metro, or tram system for local transport within the city. However, the city is served by a railway station that connects to national rail routes.
Arriving by Train from Other Cities
Kandy railway station is located approximately one kilometer southwest of the city center. Trains arrive here from Colombo and other cities on the national rail network.
From Colombo: Intercity express trains are the most practical option, taking 2½ to 3 hours and offering a scenic journey. These trains are generally hassle-free, though they can be crowded. Some express trains feature a first-class observation saloon with good views, though this often books out. Many trains run daily.
From Ella: If you are coming from the hill country, the train journey from Ella is spectacular, passing through hills and tea plantations. This journey takes 6½ to 8½ hours.
The railway line extends further from Kandy to Badulla, with stops at Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya station), Haputale, and Ella.
When arriving at the railway station, be aware of tuk-tuk operators who target newly arrived passengers. Use ride-hailing apps or catch a tuk-tuk away from the station stand to avoid inflated fares.
Arriving by Bus from Other Cities
Long-distance buses arrive at a bus station located near Kandy railway station. From here, buses also depart to other cities.
From Colombo: Regular public buses and intercity air-conditioned buses both serve this route, taking approximately 3 to 3½ hours. Public buses are more economical but are usually crowded and hot. Air-conditioned intercity buses offer greater comfort. Female solo travelers should consider sitting near the conductor or next to other female passengers.
From Dambulla: Direct buses connect Dambulla and Kandy, with the journey taking about 3 hours.
Getting from Colombo Airport to Kandy
Several options are available for traveling from Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo's main airport) to Kandy:
- Taxi: Hire a taxi directly from the arrivals hall at the airport. This costs approximately Rs 6,000 and takes about 3 hours. This option bypasses the need to travel into Colombo first and is relatively straightforward, though more expensive than other options.
- Bus: Walk or take a tuk-tuk to the bus terminal near the airport, where buses to Kandy depart. Journey time is about 3½ hours and the fare is very economical.
- Hired mini-van with driver: Travel agencies and hotel concierges can arrange drivers and vehicles for the journey. The road from Colombo to Kandy is known for chaotic and aggressive driving, with buses passing on blind corners and unpredictable traffic patterns. This option offers flexibility but may be stressful for nervous passengers.
- Air: Cinnamon Air operates scheduled flights from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport to Polgolla Reservoir near Kandy, taking about an hour, or from Colombo City (Waters Edge) in about 30 minutes. This option is significantly more expensive but avoids road travel entirely.