Things to do in Kandy in September

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Overview

September is a good time to visit Kandy. The weather is usually very warm and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 71—84°F (22—29°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 Ceylon Tea Museum, go on a hike to the Knuckles Mountain Range, take a scenic train ride through the hill country, 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 September trip to Kandy. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to September. 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 September. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout September, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Kandy in September

Top experiences in September
Visit the Ceylon Tea Museum
Sri Lanka is renowned for its tea, and the Ceylon Tea Museum in Kandy offers a fascinating insight into the history and production of this beloved beverage. Housed in a former tea factory, the museum showcases vintage tea-processing machinery, photographs, and exhibits that detail the evolution of the tea industry in Sri Lanka. In September, you can learn about the different stages of tea production, from plucking the leaves to the final packaging, and even sample some freshly brewed Ceylon tea. The museum also boasts a scenic tea garden and a gift shop where you can purchase a variety of teas to take home.
Go on a hike to the Knuckles Mountain Range
The Knuckles Mountain Range, located about 30 kilometers from Kandy, is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In September, the weather is ideal for hiking, with cooler temperatures and clear skies. The range is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as several picturesque waterfalls and crystal-clear streams. You can choose from a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks, all offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Central Province.
Take a scenic train ride through the hill country
One of the best ways to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Central Province is by taking a scenic train ride through the hill country. In September, the weather is generally pleasant, and the lush green landscapes are at their most vibrant. The train journey from Kandy to Ella is particularly popular, offering stunning views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and mist-covered mountains. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ever-changing scenery as the train winds its way through the picturesque countryside. It's a truly unforgettable experience.
Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya is a stunning 147-acre garden located just outside of Kandy. September is a great time to visit as the gardens are in full bloom, with a riot of colorful flowers and lush greenery. You can wander through the various sections of the garden, including the orchid house, palm avenue, and the giant bamboo collection. The gardens also feature a beautiful river, numerous bird species, and a variety of trees and plants from all over the world. It's a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Sample traditional Sri Lankan cuisine at local eateries
September is a great time to indulge in the delicious and diverse flavors of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. Kandy is home to numerous local eateries and street food stalls where you can sample authentic dishes such as rice and curry, hoppers, kottu, and string hoppers. You can also try local snacks like samosas, vada, and achcharu. Many of these dishes are made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, making them especially flavorful in September. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the rich and aromatic spices that are a hallmark of Sri Lankan cooking.
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Temple of the 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 pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. In September, you can witness the daily rituals and offerings made to the sacred tooth, as well as explore the temple's stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The temple complex also includes a museum and a library, providing a deeper insight into the history and significance of the relic.
Take a boat ride on the Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is a picturesque artificial lake located in the heart of the city. In September, the weather is perfect for a leisurely boat ride on the tranquil waters of the lake. You can rent a paddleboat or take a guided tour on a traditional pontoon boat, enjoying the serene surroundings and the views of the lush green hills that surround the lake. It's a peaceful
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Holidays in Kandy in September
September
  • Milad-Un-Nabi (September 16)
  • Binara Full Moon Poya Day (September 17)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Kandy in September

Temperatures on an average day in Kandy in September

The average temperature in Kandy in September for a typical day ranges from a high of 84°F (29°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 September based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in September
84°F
highs
71°F
lows

General weather summary

Very warm and breezy
Feels like
49%
Chance of rain
0.332 in
Amount
16.0 mph
Wind speed
89%
Humidity
12.2 hrs
Daylight length
5:57 AM
Sunrise
6:07 PM
Sunset
24%
Cloud cover
Sleeveless shirt
What to wear
What to wear in September
With an average high of 84°F (29°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 September

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Kandy has to offer for travelers in September, 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 September.
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
(875)
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
(1199)
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
(688)
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
(2890)
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
(713)
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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