The ancient capital of Kandy packs a punch with efficient city tours that cut through the tourist confusion. The best options range from full-day guided experiences (perfect for first-timers) to nimble tuk-tuk adventures that zip through the city’s cultural heart. We’re especially fond of the 9-hour comprehensive tours – they nail the must-sees like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Royal Botanical Gardens while handling all the logistics. The private tuk-tuk tours earn our thumbs up for flexibility and local insight, letting you set the pace and dodge the crowds. All the top-rated tours include what you need: transport, tickets, and usually meals. Let’s explore our favorite Kandy tours that deliver the goods.
Key Points
- The Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour offers a comprehensive 9-hour experience covering the city’s top attractions and cultural highlights.
- The Kandy City Tour by Tuk-Tuk provides an immersive 7-hour journey showcasing the city’s viewpoints, Royal Botanical Garden, and cultural attractions.
- The Private Guided Tour of the City by Tuk-Tuk allows for a customizable 4.5-hour exploration of Kandy’s key sites, including the Temple of the Tooth.
- The All Inclusive City Tour offers an 11-hour experience with a local lunch and cultural show, providing a well-rounded introduction to Kandy.
- The Kandy City Tour boasts a perfect 5.0 rating, highlighting the high-quality experience and knowledgeable guides that bring the city’s history and culture to life.
I Day Kandy City Tour
The I Day Kandy City Tour offers travelers a comprehensive introduction to the historic city of Kandy. This private tour, operated by Aruna Tours Kandy, receives rave reviews from past participants, with a 100% recommendation rate.
Priced at $30.00 per group (up to 3 people), the tour includes private transportation, bottled water, and hotel pickup. Travelers can expect a tailored experience with knowledgeable guides who navigate off-the-beaten-path locations.
The tour’s accessibility and flexibility make it suitable for most visitors, though it’s not wheelchair accessible. Based on 30 reviews, the tour’s drivers are praised for their professionalism, kindness, and ability to handle unexpected situations.
Read our full review: I Day Kandy City Tour Review
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Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour
This comprehensive 9-hour tour offers travelers an immersive experience in the cultural and historical gems of Kandy. Priced from $57.60 per person, the tour includes visits to the Royal Botanic Gardens, the iconic Bahirawakanda Buddha statue, and the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Guests will also enjoy a traditional Kandyan cultural show featuring captivating dances. With hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver/guide, and all entrance fees included, this tour provides a hassle-free way to explore Kandy’s top attractions.
However, some past travelers felt the guide’s interaction could be limited, perceiving the tour more as a driver service.
Read our full review: Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour Review
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Kandy City Day Tour and Trip Private Luxury Car and Van
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Kandy’s renowned landmarks, the Kandy City Day Tour and Trip private luxury car and van tour provides travelers with a hassle-free way to discover the city’s UNESCO-listed wonders and cultural treasures.
Boasting a 100% recommendation rate from previous guests, this private full-day tour covers Kandy’s must-see sights, including the Temple of the Tooth, a cultural show, a tea factory, and a gem museum.
Travelers enjoy the convenience of private air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a local driver-guide who shares insights into each attraction.
With a starting price of $25.50 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers excellent value and flexibility.
Read our full review: Kandy City Day Tour and Trip Private Luxury Car and Van Review
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Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk
For travelers seeking an immersive and exhilarating way to explore the vibrant city of Kandy, the Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk provides an unparalleled experience.
Lasting 7 hours and priced at $11 per person, this tour takes visitors on a comprehensive journey through Kandy’s iconic sites, including the Kandy viewpoint, Royal Botanical Garden, Big Buddha Statue, and the renowned Temple of the Tooth.
Along the way, you will also experience cultural attractions like Kandyan cultural dancing, the Natural Gem Museum, and an Ayurvedic cinnamon garden.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers excellent value and flexibility for those looking to make the most of their time in Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy: City Tour by Tuk-Tuk! Review
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Kandy City Tour With Mahaweli
A captivating Kandy City Tour with Mahaweli allows visitors to enjoy the vibrant culture and natural beauty of this enchanting Sri Lankan city.
Boasting a 5.0 overall rating from 10 reviews, this private tour takes guests on a journey through Kandy’s highlights, including the iconic Mahaweli River.
Travelers enjoy convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, comfortable transportation, and essential inclusions like bottled water and entrance tickets.
The tour caters to diverse needs, offering wheelchair-accessible options, vegetarian meals, and infant seating.
With free cancellation and a reserve-now-pay-later policy, booking this immersive Kandy experience has never been easier.
Discover the best of Kandy with this highly-recommended city tour.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tour With Mahaweli Review
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Kandy: Private Guided City Tours by Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour
Explore Kandy’s captivating landmarks and cultural heritage on a private guided Tuk-Tuk city tour.
This immersive experience takes you through the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Tooth, the scenic Kandy View Point, and the vibrant Kandy Fruits Market.
Discover the towering Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue and wander through the lush Royal Botanical Garden.
Along the way, witness the art of wood crafting, learn about Ceylon tea production, and explore the gemstone industry at the Ceylon Gem Museum.
Cap off the day with a dazzling Kandy Cultural Show.
Priced from $7.09 per person, this full-day tour offers convenient hotel pickup, free Wi-Fi, and a customizable itinerary with free cancellation.
Read our full review: Kandy: Private Guided City Tours by Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour Review
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Kandy To Nuwaraeliya Scenic Train Ride and Nuwaraeliya City Tour And Drop Ella
Embarking on a scenic train journey from Kandy to Nuwaraeliya, this private tour then leads you on a city exploration of Nuwaraeliya before concluding with a drop-off in Ella.
The tour includes a first-class train ticket, bottled water, and a driver/guide. You’ll be picked up from your location in Kandy and dropped off in Ella.
The tour starts at 7:30 AM and is accessible to most travelers, though not wheelchair-friendly.
With an impressive 5.0 rating from 8 reviews, this tour is priced at ₹11,282.29 per group (up to 3 people) and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Kandy To Nuwaraeliya Scenic Train Ride and Nuwaraeliya City Tour And Drop Ella Review
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Kandy: City Tour and Sightseeing Shopping Tour by Tuk Tuk
Enjoy the vibrant city of Kandy with a comprehensive Tuk Tuk tour that showcases its cultural and historical gems.
Over 4 hours, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Temple of the Tooth Relic, stroll along Kandy Lake, and explore the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Refuel with local cuisine before discovering panoramic Kandy viewpoints, a gem museum, and the city center’s shopping options.
Experience the region’s famous Kandyan dance performance.
This private tour offers hotel pickup, entrance tickets, and bottled water – all for an affordable price.
It’s a flexible, convenient way to make the most of your time in Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy: City Tour and Sightseeing Shopping Tour by Tuk Tuk Review
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Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour Full Day
Commencing your Kandy City adventure, this full-day Tuk Tuk tour promises an immersive exploration of the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.
Priced from $10 per person, this private tour offers a flexible and personalized experience led by knowledgeable local guides.
Highlights include city landmarks, temples, and bustling marketplaces, all accessible via the iconic three-wheeled tuk tuk.
With hotel pickup, bottled water, and a 5-star rating from previous travelers, this tour delivers an efficient and enjoyable way to discover Kandy’s treasures.
Whether you’re seeking culture or simply a fun way to get around, the Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour delivers an unforgettable Sri Lankan experience.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour Full Day Review
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Kandy: Private Guided Tour of the City by Tuk-Tuk
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kandy on a private guided tour by tuk-tuk.
Starting at just $6.45 per person, this 4.5-hour experience provides a rundown of the city’s iconic attractions. You’ll visit the Temple of the Tooth, Ambuluwaawa Tower, and Nelligala Temple, while also enjoying the Royal Botanical Gardens and local wildlife.
The tour is fully customizable based on your interests, with options to include a tea plantation visit, spice and wellness tour, cultural dance show, and more.
Rated 4.9/5 based on 234 reviews, the tour is led by the knowledgeable guide Dinesh, who offers insightful commentary and personalized recommendations.
Read our full review: Kandy: Private Guided Tour of the City by Tuk-Tuk Review
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Half-Day Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk
Set out on a captivating half-day tour of Kandy’s vibrant cityscape aboard a tuk-tuk.
Starting at 10:30 AM, this private tour takes you through the city’s historic landmarks, offering a rundown of Kandy’s rich cultural heritage.
Priced from €21.18 per person, the tour includes a driver/guide, hotel/port drop-off, and entrance tickets.
Praised by 100% of travelers, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but suitable for most visitors, including infants.
Confirmation is provided at booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Operated by Travel Sri Lanka, this tour provides a lowest price guarantee and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, making it an excellent choice for exploring Kandy’s diverse attractions.
Read our full review: Half-Day Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk Review
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Kandy: All Inclusive City Tour
Embarking on the Kandy: All Inclusive City Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Kandy’s cultural and natural wonders. Priced at $90 per person, the 11-hour tour offers a jam-packed itinerary, including visits to the Giragama Tea Factory, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, Bahirawakanda Buddha statue, and the Temple of the Tooth.
Travelers can savor a local lunch and witness a cultural show. While the tour’s inclusions are impressive, a previous reviewer noted that the experience felt rushed and sales-focused.
An alternative recommendation is renting a TukTuk for a more personalized, lower-cost exploration. Ultimately, the Kandy: All Inclusive City Tour aims to showcase the city’s top attractions, though its execution may fall short of expectations for some visitors.
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Kandy: City Tour by Tuk-Tuk With Lunch and Dance Performance
Travelers can discover the vibrant heart of Kandy on a private tuk-tuk tour that showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The 7-hour experience includes a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Bahirawakanda Temple, and the Royal Botanical Gardens. Guests will enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance and savor local cuisine at a restaurant.
Round-trip transportation, refreshments, and all entrance fees are included. With the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers a hassle-free way to take in Kandy’s history and culture.
Flexible booking options accommodate various travel plans, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for peace of mind.
Read our full review: Kandy: City Tour by Tuk-Tuk With Lunch and Dance Performance Review
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Kandy City Tour
On this comprehensive city tour, visitors can enjoy the vibrant cultural heritage of Kandy. Rated a perfect 5.0 based on 5 reviews, the Kandy City Tour takes guests on a private, air-conditioned journey to top attractions like the Temple, Three Temples, Big Buddha Statues, and Botanical Garden.
With pickup available, the tour begins at 8:00 AM and lasts for the entire day. For groups of up to 3 people, the cost is just $40, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This highly-rated experience provides an engaging overview of Kandy’s rich history and culture, making it an ideal choice for visitors to the city.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tour Review
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From Kandy: Evening Kandy City Tour by Tuk-Tuk
Immersed in the vibrant evening atmosphere, visitors can explore Kandy’s rich cultural heritage on this comprehensive Tuk-Tuk city tour.
Priced from $60 per person, the 4.5-hour experience includes pickup, visits to iconic sites like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and engaging with local arts, crafts, music, and dance.
The tour’s flexibility allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option.
With a live English-speaking guide, refreshments, and all fees covered, this evening tour offers a well-rounded culture in the heart of Kandy.
Read our full review: From Kandy: Evening Kandy City Tour by Tuk-Tuk Review
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Kandy City Tour – Tuk Tuk
Exploring Kandy’s vibrant cityscape from the comfort of a tuk-tuk offers visitors a unique perspective on the city’s cultural heritage.
This private tour includes roundtrip transportation from Kandy City hotels, allowing for seamless exploration. Highlights include the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue, and the renowned Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
With a starting price of ₹1,128.23 per person and a lowest price guarantee, this tour provides excellent value. Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether you’re seeking an immersive cultural experience or a convenient way to see Kandy’s top attractions, this tuk-tuk tour is a reliable and enjoyable option.
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Kandy: Botanical Garden and Kandy City Tours By Tuk Tuk
Travelers exploring Kandy can embark on a comprehensive tuk-tuk tour that showcases the city’s renowned Botanical Garden and its vibrant cultural landmarks.
The 6-hour private tour, priced at just $9.67 per person, includes a guided visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kandy, where visitors can enjoy the lush greenery and diverse flora.
The itinerary also features optional stops at the iconic Temple of the Tooth, the Bhairawakanda Buddha Statue, and the Giragama Tea Factory, where guests can witness the art of wood carving and learn about Ceylon tea.
With free cancellation and convenient hotel pickup/drop-off, this tour offers an efficient and budget-friendly way to discover Kandy’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Kandy: Botanical Garden and Kandy City Tours By Tuk Tuk Review
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Full Day Kandy City Tour From Kandy.
For those seeking to discover the rich cultural tapestry of Kandy, the Full Day Kandy City Tour provides an immersive experience.
Offered by JK Travels Sri Lanka, this tour takes visitors on a comprehensive journey through Kandy’s highlights. The €33.69 per person price tag includes bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, entrance tickets, and gratuities.
The tour starts at 7:30 am with pickup from specified locations in Kandy. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with infant seats available.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on a single review, this private tour ensures an intimate and personalized exploration of Kandy’s storied history and iconic landmarks.
Read our full review: Full Day Kandy City Tour From Kandy. Review
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Kandy : City Tuk Tuk Day Tours (By Local Guide)
Embarking on a Kandy city tuk-tuk day tour with a local guide offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to uncover the cultural gems and scenic wonders of this enchanting Sri Lankan city.
Priced from $6.12 per person, the tour covers iconic landmarks like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Royal Botanic Gardens, and Kandy Lake.
With a flexible itinerary, visitors can explore at their own pace and opt for additional activities such as a cultural dance show.
Offering hotel pickup, small-group or private options, and a 4.8/5 rating based on reviews, this tuk-tuk tour promises an immersive and memorable experience in Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy : City Tuk Tuk Day Tours (By Local Guide) Review
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Kandy: All-Inclusive Afternoon City Tour
Offering a more comprehensive exploration of Kandy’s cultural heritage, the All-Inclusive Afternoon City Tour provides an engaging and immersive experience. Priced at $68 per person, this 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and entrance fees, making it an excellent value.
Highlights include visiting the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, enjoying a birds-eye view of Kandy from the Upper Lake Drive, and attending a cultural show at the Kandyan Cultural Center.
The tour culminates with a visit to the famous Kandy Temple, where guests can witness the Pooja Ceremony.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers convenience and flexibility for travelers.
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Scenic Train Ride to Ella With Kandy City Tour
Travelers seeking to combine the scenic beauty of the Ella region with the cultural richness of Kandy can opt for the Scenic Train Ride to Ella With Kandy City Tour.
This private tour offers a seamless experience, including a scenic train ride and a comprehensive Kandy city tour. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all taxes and fees, and a professional guide.
Accessibility features make the tour wheelchair-friendly, while infants can join on laps.
However, the tour has received a single one-star review, so potential travelers should consider this feedback carefully before booking.
Read our full review: Scenic Train Ride to Ella With Kandy City Tour Review
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Kandy: City Tours and Peradeniya Botanical Garden By Tuk Tuk
Visitors seeking a comprehensive exploration of Kandy’s cultural tapestry and the enchanting Peradeniya Botanical Garden can experience it all through the Kandy: City Tours and Peradeniya Botanical Garden By Tuk Tuk tour.
This 6-hour activity includes visiting the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Viewpoint, Bhairawakanda Buddha Statue, and the botanical gardens, as well as a stop at a tea factory. Priced at $24.17 per person, the tour offers free hotel pickup, water, and all entrance fees.
While the vehicle condition was subpar, the lunch and spice walk were enjoyable. Participants should bring appropriate attire and be mindful of prohibited items.
With a 3/5 rating, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Kandy’s highlights.
Read our full review: Kandy: City Tours and Peradeniya Botanical Garden By Tuk Tuk Review
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Kandy: City Tour by Tuk-Tuk!
Enjoy the vibrant culture and captivating history of Kandy through the comprehensive Kandy: City Tour by Tuk-Tuk. Priced at $85 per person, this 10-hour tour offers a deep dive into the city’s Kandyan kingdom heritage, visiting iconic landmarks like the Temple of the Tooth Relic and Bahirawakanda temple.
Admire the lush Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya and enjoy a scenic ride along Kandy Lake. The tour includes roundtrip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, refreshments, and lunch.
Dress modestly for sacred sites, and note that the tour may be canceled due to inclement weather. Book now and explore Kandy’s rich past and present with ease.
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Kandy City Explore Day Tour , Like a Local
The Kandy City Explore Day Tour offers a comprehensive journey through the vibrant heart of this historic city.
Priced at $9.31 per person, this full-day tour provides incredible value, with a savings of up to 35%.
Over 7-8 hours, guests will visit key landmarks like Nelligala Temple, Ceylon Tea Factory, and the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Along the way, they’ll learn about Kandy’s rich history, explore botanical gardens, and witness a traditional Kandyan dance performance.
With friendly, accommodating guides, convenient transportation, and the option to customize the experience, this tour is an excellent way to discover Kandy like a local.
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Kandy City Tour With Micheal by Tuk Tuk
For those seeking a more intimate and unique exploration of Kandy, the Kandy City Tour with Micheal by Tuk Tuk offers an exceptional opportunity. Priced at just $10 per person, this 6-hour small-group tour provides a rundown of the city’s highlights, from the stunning Kandy Viewpoint to the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
With an experienced English-speaking guide, Michael, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a flexible itinerary that includes the Bahirawakanda Big Buddha Statue and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Convenient hotel pickup, free cancellation, and two water bottles are just a few of the amenities that make this tour a top choice for discovering Kandy like a local.
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Recap
Kandy offers a variety of city tours to suit different interests and budgets. Whether you prefer a private luxury car, a colorful tuk-tuk, or a guided walking tour, there are options to explore the city’s temples, gardens, and cultural highlights. With knowledgeable local guides, visitors can enjoy Kandy’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere. The city’s diverse tour offerings make it an attractive destination for travelers seeking an authentic Sri Lankan experience.