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Rent a TukTuk in Kandy and experience the cultural heart of Sri Lanka like never before. Nestled in the central highlands, Kandy blends spiritual depth with natural charm, home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and surrounded by lush hills and tranquil lakes. From exploring historic streets and vibrant markets to witnessing traditional festivals, every turn reveals a piece of Sri Lanka’s proud heritage. A self-drive TukTuk offers the perfect way to immerse yourself in Kandy’s timeless spirit at your own pace.
To legally drive a tuktuk in Sri Lanka, you’ll need a special recognition permit. You can get this with either your “International Driving Permit (IDP)” or your “Regular National Country Licence” with a B/C endorsement (representing car, depending on your country).
tuktukmania.com can help you get your recognition permit from the AAC (Automobile Association of Ceylon) with either of these documents. After booking, you’ll receive an email with a form to upload your licence. We’ll have your permit ready when you pick up your tuktuk in Negombo. Learn more about the recognition permit [How to get an International Driving Licence Sri Lanka].
All our tuktuks come with full insurance that covers damage to your tuktuk, other vehicles, and personal injury for you, your passengers, and third parties. However, our insurance does not fly you back home. Check out more details about travel insurance coverage.
Before hitting the road, we’ll recommend you either watch our introductory video or join a virtual briefing session to go over the final details of your trip and answer any questions you may have. We’ll also assist with planning your itinerary. Once you arrive, you’ll receive personalised driving instruction to ensure you’re confident and ready to explore Sri Lanka from Kandy.
Renting a tuktuk is fun, immersive way to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning scenery and vibrant culture, especially around Negombo. When choosing a rental company, consider important factors like customer reviews, proper business and SLTDA registration, insurance coverage, safety standards, transparent pricing, and customer support. tuktukmania.com ensures all of these are in place. Find out how to select the correct tuktuk rental provider.
We prioritise your safety with reliable insurance, regular vehicle checks, and a team of mechanics. In case of emergencies, roadside assistance is available. With no hidden fees, our pricing is clear and fair. We also strive to provide top-notch customer service, handling any issues quickly. Since 2024, we’ve been committed to sustainable tourism by offsetting all our carbon emissions, making Sri Lanka greener.
Choose tuktukmania.com and experience the thrill of exploring Sri Lanka on your own terms. Let your adventure start in Kandy!
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple houses the revered tooth relic of the Buddha. It is one of the most sacred places for Buddhists worldwide, drawing visitors with its stunning architecture, vibrant festivals, and profound sense of serenity.
Kandy Lake
Created by the last king of Sri Lanka, this picturesque lake sits at the heart of the city. A stroll around the lake offers tranquil views, peaceful shaded paths, and a glimpse of local life and birdwatching.
Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
Just a short drive from Kandy, these lush gardens boast over 4,000 species of plants, including rare orchids and towering palm trees. It’s a favorite spot for leisurely walks and picnics amidst beautifully curated landscapes.
Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
Perched on a hill, this massive Buddha statue offers panoramic views over Kandy and surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal spot for sunset, with a peaceful ambiance that’s perfect for reflection.
Kandy Market Hall
A bustling market where you can experience the vibrant local culture, shop for fresh produce, spices, handcrafted goods, and soak in the lively atmosphere unique to Kandy.
Udawattakele Forest Reserve
This ancient forest reserve, once the royal forest for Kandyan kings, offers serene nature trails, lush greenery, and rich birdlife. It’s an escape into nature right within the city.
Ceylon Tea Museum
Located in an old tea factory, the museum provides insight into Sri Lanka’s tea industry history. Enjoy guided tours, old machinery displays, and a cup of Ceylon tea with a view over Kandy’s hills.
The Kandy Esala Perahera Festival
If you visit in July or August, don’t miss the Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand festival celebrating the Sacred Tooth Relic. This vibrant procession with traditional dancers, drummers, and decorated elephants is an unforgettable cultural experience.
Kandy Viewpoint
A quick uphill walk or drive takes you to this viewpoint, where you can admire a sweeping panorama of Kandy, the lake, and the encircling hills. It’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Embekka Devalaya
A temple known for its intricate wood carvings, Embekka Devalaya is dedicated to the deity Kataragama. Its impressive architectural detail and historical significance make it a lesser-known but fascinating visit.
Balaji Dosai
A cozy spot popular with locals for authentic South Indian food. Known for its delicious dosas, idlis, and sambars, Balaji Dosai is a must-visit for flavorful, budget-friendly vegetarian meals right in the heart of Kandy.
The Kandyan Muslim Hotel (KMH)
A bustling, no-frills local favorite, this spot serves up traditional Sri Lankan Muslim cuisine. Known for its biryanis, parathas, and tasty curries, KMH offers an authentic taste of Kandy’s diverse flavors.
Dine-More
This local chain offers a variety of Sri Lankan and Western dishes at affordable prices. Popular for its rice and curry options, kottu roti, and short eats, Dine-More is a great spot for quick, hearty meals.
Slightly Chilled Lounge (Bamboo Garden)
Known for its relaxed vibe and scenic views of the lake, this spot offers a mix of Chinese, Sri Lankan, and fusion dishes. It’s popular among locals and travelers for tasty bites at reasonable prices, especially at sunset.
Devon Restaurant
A Kandy classic, Devon serves a range of Sri Lankan, Chinese, and Western dishes at pocket-friendly prices. Their rice and curry, short eats, and tea are perfect for a simple, satisfying meal in a bustling local atmosphere.
Green View Restaurant
A lesser-known gem, Green View offers authentic Sri Lankan dishes with beautiful views of Kandy’s green hills. Their rice and curry dishes are well-loved, and the open-air ambiance adds to the charm.
Mlesna Tea Fortress
Part tea shop, part café, Mlesna offers affordable light meals like sandwiches, pastries, and snacks, along with a variety of locally sourced teas. It’s a great spot to relax with a pot of Ceylon tea and light refreshments.
Cafe Banana Chill
A casual and friendly eatery that offers a mix of Sri Lankan and Western comfort food, including wraps, sandwiches, and smoothies. This spot is loved for its relaxed vibe and quality vegetarian and vegan options.
Sinhagiri Green Hut Restaurant
Known for its traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry options, Green Hut is a simple, family-run place offering fresh, flavorful meals at reasonable prices. It’s a hidden gem for local flavors and generous portions.
Eat Me Restaurant
A modest place known for its authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry spreads, kottu, and fried rice dishes. Loved by locals for its homestyle flavors and affordability, it’s ideal for those looking to try true Sri Lankan cuisine in Kandy.
The Kandyan House
A cozy, family-run guesthouse that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with basic, clean rooms. It’s known for its great views of the surrounding hills, and the hosts provide helpful tips for exploring Kandy.
Kandy City Hostel
A popular choice for budget travelers, this hostel provides a social, friendly environment with dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms. The hostel organizes local tours and group activities, perfect for meeting other travelers.
Nature Walk Resort
Located a short distance from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Nature Walk Resort offers affordable rooms with views of lush greenery. This spot is ideal for travelers who want a peaceful stay near nature, yet still close to central Kandy.
The Peak Pavilion
A charming guesthouse with panoramic views over Kandy city and the lake, The Peak Pavilion provides simple, comfortable rooms and a peaceful terrace area where guests can relax after a day of exploring.
Sharon Inn
Known for its warm hospitality and traditional Sri Lankan buffet dinners, Sharon Inn offers simple, comfortable rooms with a homey feel. It’s close to Kandy Lake, making it a convenient location for exploring the city.
Majestic Tourist Hotel
This affordable hotel offers basic rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding hills. It’s a short tuk-tuk ride from Kandy city center, making it a peaceful retreat away from the busy streets.
Kandy Hills Resort
This budget-friendly option is located in a scenic area surrounded by green hills. Guests enjoy the quiet atmosphere and views of the lush surroundings, as well as the comfortable, clean rooms.
Hotel Mango Garden
A family-run guesthouse located close to Kandy Lake, offering budget rooms with a cozy feel. The friendly hosts provide local travel advice, and the location is ideal for travelers who want to explore Kandy on foot.
Kandy Backpackers Hostel
A laid-back hostel with a friendly vibe and helpful staff, ideal for solo travelers or groups. It features both dorms and private rooms, as well as a small pool, which is a nice touch for budget accommodations.
Cottage 99
This guesthouse is located in a quiet neighborhood and offers affordable rooms with a homelike ambiance. It’s a short walk from central Kandy and is popular for its peaceful setting and welcoming hosts.
A Train Ride to Kandy.
To reach Kandy by train from Colombo, hop on a direct train departing from Colombo Fort Railway Station. With multiple departures throughout the day, this scenic journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the train service. Sit back, unwind, and enjoy the lush landscapes as you head toward Sri Lanka’s cultural heart, Kandy. For train schedules, visit the government’s official railway website.
A Bus Ride to Kandy
Direct bus services connect Colombo to Kandy, departing from both the Colombo Central Bus Stand (Pettah) and the Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal. The journey typically takes 3-4 hours, depending on traffic. Sit back and enjoy the scenic route, winding through lush greenery and rolling hills, on your way to the enchanting city of Kandy.
For route planning and to check bus schedules, visit the official website of Sri Lanka’s National Transport Commission (NTC).
By Taxi to Kandy
You can also hire a private vehicle with a driver for your journey. This option is the quickest, though it tends to be the most costly. The trip from Colombo will take around 3-4 hours.
Rent a Tuktuk and drive to the city!
Experience the thrill of driving your own tuktuk from Colombo to Kandy! This exciting option allows you to explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems and stopping wherever you like along the way. Ready to begin your adventure? Head over to our online reservation system.
Choose your booking dates, select any extras, and enter your details. Complete your payment and get ready for an unforgettable ride through Sri Lanka!
Renting a tuktuk in Kandy offers you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. To drive, you’ll need a local temporary driving license, and we’re here to help you obtain one!
Absolutely! Driving a tuktuk in Kandy is safe, and we provide a driving lesson to ensure you feel comfortable handling the vehicle.
Don’t worry! We offer dedicated customer support throughout your rental period to assist you with any issues that may arise.
On your pickup day, one of our experienced driving instructors will bring the tuktuk along with your locally approved permit and necessary documentation to your hotel in Kandy. After a comprehensive driving lesson, you’ll be ready to explore paradise!
Yes, you can conveniently drop off the tuktuk in Kandy. Check out price for Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations all around the Island.