Things to do in Kandy in August

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Overview

August is a good time to visit Kandy. The weather is usually very warm and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 71—83°F (22—28°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Kandy during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, take a scenic train ride to Ella, visit the Ceylon Tea Museum, and more!

Kandy has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your August trip to Kandy. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to August. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Kandy in August. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout August, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Kandy in August

Top experiences in August
Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a sacred Buddhist temple located in the heart of Kandy. It houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha, making it one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka. In August, the temple is adorned with colorful decorations and illuminated with lights as part of the Esala Perahera festival. Visiting the temple during this time allows you to witness the religious rituals and cultural traditions associated with the festival, providing a unique insight into the spiritual significance of the temple.
Take a scenic train ride to Ella
One of the most iconic experiences in Sri Lanka is taking a train ride through the picturesque hill country, and August is the perfect time to do so. The train journey from Kandy to Ella offers breathtaking views of lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The cool, misty weather in August adds to the charm of the journey, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique way to explore the stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka, this train ride is not to be missed.
Visit the Ceylon Tea Museum
Sri Lanka is renowned for its world-class tea, and the Ceylon Tea Museum in Kandy offers a fascinating insight into the history and production of this beloved beverage. The museum is housed in a former tea factory and showcases antique tea-processing equipment, historical photographs, and interactive exhibits that detail the journey of tea from plantation to cup. In August, the museum is particularly interesting as it provides a deeper understanding of the significance of tea in Sri Lankan culture and the impact of the tea industry on the country's economy.
Attend the Esala Perahera festival
The Esala Perahera festival is a vibrant and colorful cultural event that takes place in Kandy every August. It is a ten-day festival that features traditional dance performances, fire-breathers, and beautifully decorated elephants parading through the streets. The highlight of the festival is the procession of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, which is carried on the back of a majestic elephant. The festival is a unique opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city.
Go on a hike to the Knuckles Mountain Range
The Knuckles Mountain Range is a stunning natural wonder located near Kandy, offering some of the best hiking opportunities in Sri Lanka. In August, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it the perfect time to explore the rugged terrain and lush forests of the mountains. The range is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as picturesque waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic adventure, a hike in the Knuckles Mountain Range is a must-do experience in Kandy.
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Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Kandy are a stunning natural attraction that is particularly beautiful in August. The gardens are home to a diverse collection of exotic plants and trees, including orchids, palms, and giant bamboo. In August, the gardens are in full bloom, with vibrant flowers and lush greenery creating a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. The gardens also offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.
Indulge in traditional Sri Lankan cuisine at local restaurants
August is a great time to savor the authentic flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine, and Kandy is home to a variety of local restaurants and street food stalls that offer delicious and affordable meals. From spicy curries and flavorful rice dishes to sweet treats and refreshing beverages, there's no shortage of culinary delights to try. Whether you're a foodie looking to explore new flavors or simply craving a hearty meal, indulging in traditional Sri Lankan cuisine is a must-do experience in Kandy.
Take a boat ride on the Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is a scenic and tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. In August, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers, creating a serene and picturesque setting for a leisurely boat ride. Whether you're looking for a romantic experience, a peaceful escape from the city, or simply a unique way to enjoy the natural beauty of Kandy, a boat ride on Kandy Lake is a delightful and memorable experience.
Explore the ancient Gadaladeniya Temple
The Gadaladeniya Temple is a historic and architecturally significant Buddhist temple located near Kandy. Built in the 14th century, the temple features a unique blend of South Indian and Sinhalese architectural styles
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Holidays in Kandy in August
August
  • Nikini Full Moon Poya Day (August 19)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Kandy in August

Temperatures on an average day in Kandy in August

The average temperature in Kandy in August for a typical day ranges from a high of 83°F (28°C) to a low of 71°F (22°C). Some would describe it as very warm and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Kandy, April, has days with highs of 88°F (31°C) and lows of 71°F (22°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 81°F (27°C) and lows of 65°F (18°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Kandy in August based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in August
83°F
highs
71°F
lows

General weather summary

Very warm and breezy
Feels like
48%
Chance of rain
0.200 in
Amount
18.1 mph
Wind speed
90%
Humidity
12.4 hrs
Daylight length
6:00 AM
Sunrise
6:21 PM
Sunset
22%
Cloud cover
Sleeveless shirt
What to wear
What to wear in August
With an average high of 83°F (28°C) and a low of 71°F (22°C), it generally feels very warm and breezy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something very light like a sleeveless shirt and remember to bring an umbrella
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Best attractions for Kandy in August

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Kandy has to offer for travelers in August, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Kandy that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Kandy for August.
Sri Dalada Maligawa
1. Sri Dalada Maligawa
4.7
(25752)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Large temple featuring rituals & services around the sacred Tooth Relic, the canine tooth of Buddha.
Kandy Lake
2. Kandy Lake
4.6
(867)
Lake
Nature & Parks
Tranquil, manmade lake with a path for walking & jogging & an adjacent temple with Buddha's tooth.
Bahirawakanda Temple
3. Bahirawakanda Temple
4.6
(2373)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Steep stairs lead to hilltop views from this Buddhist place of worship with a souvenir shop.
Arthur's Seat View Point, Kandy
4. Arthur's Seat View Point, Kandy
4.6
(1174)
Scenic spot
Sights & Landmarks
Lookout point with a single symbolic chair for photographs, with views of Kandy Lake & city.
Ceylon Tea Museum
5. Ceylon Tea Museum
4.3
(675)
Museum
Specialty Museums
British Garrison Cemetery
6. British Garrison Cemetery
4.5
(84)
Cemetery
Sights & Landmarks
Commonwealth War Cemetery Kandy
7. Commonwealth War Cemetery Kandy
4.7
(58)
Cemetery
Sights & Landmarks
New Ranweli Spice Garden Kandy Sri Lanka
8. New Ranweli Spice Garden Kandy Sri Lanka
3.8
(40)
Garden
Nature & Parks
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
9. Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
4.4
(2877)
National forest
Nature & Parks
Wildlife viewing is popular within this large forest with hiking trails & interpretive information.
Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya
10. Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya
4.6
(694)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Buddhist temple dating back to the 14th century, with paintings, sculptures & carved inscriptions.
International Buddhist Museum
11. International Buddhist Museum
4.6
(204)
History museum
Museums
Museum showcasing exhibits devoted to Buddhist history around the world in a Victorian-era space.
Royal Palace
12. Royal Palace
Palace
Sights & Landmarks
Old Royal Palace
13. Old Royal Palace
4.4
(113)
Museum
History Museums
Built circa 1634, this palace was home to the monarch of the Kingdom of Kandy until the early 1800s.
Kandy Esala Perahera
15. Kandy Esala Perahera
4.3
(9)
Buddhist temple
Events
St Paul's Church, Kandy
16. St Paul's Church, Kandy
4.5
(70)
Place of worship
Sights & Landmarks

Top searches in Kandy

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