Kandy, Sri Lanka’s scenic hill capital, is a city full of family-friendly adventures waiting to be discovered. While it’s known for its cultural landmarks and lush landscapes, Kandy is also a fantastic place to explore with children, especially when you’re discovering the city by tuk-tuk. A tuk-tuk tour through Kandy not only adds an extra thrill to the journey but also provides the perfect way to cover Kandy’s diverse attractions while keeping the little ones engaged.
Here are some top spots to visit with Kandy by TukTuk that both kids and adults will love.
Things to Do in Kandy with Kids
1. Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens
Start your day at the enchanting Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, a short tuk-tuk ride from Kandy’s city center. Kids will love exploring the massive garden spaces, spotting exotic plants, and running around open fields. Look out for the giant Javan fig tree, with branches stretching out like an umbrella, and the orchid house, filled with vibrant colors. Don’t miss the chance to see the bustling colony of fruit bats hanging in the trees!
2. Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
No trip to Kandy is complete without a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred sites. A tuk-tuk ride to this revered temple will delight the kids with its architectural grandeur, gilded statues, and beautiful murals. Keep an eye out for the ceremonial drummers and dancers during the puja, a traditional blessing that’s a sensory experience for all ages. It’s a great way for kids to appreciate Sri Lankan culture and history in an interactive setting.
3. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
Hop into a tuk-tuk for a short journey up to Bahirawakanda Vihara, where a massive Buddha statue stands overlooking Kandy. The tuk-tuk ride up the hill adds a sense of adventure, and once there, the views are breathtaking! This spot offers a unique photo opportunity for kids with the giant Buddha as a backdrop and panoramic views of Kandy city below.
4. Kandy Lake & Lakeside Stroll
A tuk-tuk ride around Kandy Lake is another exciting way to see the heart of the city. Kids will love watching the ducks, spotting fish in the lake, and enjoying the picturesque scenery. There’s a path around the lake if you want to stop and stretch your legs, making it a relaxing way to explore Kandy’s natural beauty while staying close to the city.
5. Ceylon Tea Museum
Just a short tuk-tuk ride away, the Ceylon Tea Museum offers a fun, educational experience for children. Here, they can learn about Sri Lanka’s tea heritage, see old tea-processing machinery, and enjoy a cup of the island’s famed Ceylon tea while parents take in the panoramic view of the hills.
6. Kandy City Market
Exploring the vibrant Kandy City Market is an adventure for kids and adults alike! Let the kids experience local culture by sampling fresh fruits, spotting traditional spices, and browsing the colorful textiles. A tuk-tuk can drop you right at the market’s entrance, where the bustling sights, sounds, and flavors will create memorable moments for the whole family.
7. Hanthana Bird Park
Located in the serene Hanthana region, Hanthana Bird Park is a fantastic spot for young nature lovers. Kids can see a variety of exotic birds up close, from parrots to eagles. A tuk-tuk ride to Hanthana Bird Park offers scenic views, making the journey part of the experience. The park’s educational programs and bird feeding sessions make this an exciting and interactive outing for kids of all ages.
8. Ambuluwawa Tower
For an unforgettable experience, head to Ambuluwawa Tower, about an hour from Kandy by tuk-tuk. This unique, spiral-shaped tower perched atop a hill offers breathtaking 360-degree views. Climbing the narrow spiral staircase is a fun challenge for older kids, and the incredible views from the top make the journey worthwhile. It’s a little off the main path but perfect for families seeking a sense of adventure.
9. Kandyan Cultural Dance Show
Cap off your day with a Kandyan cultural dance performance. After exploring the city by tuk-tuk, it’s a great way to unwind while the kids enjoy watching the colorful costumes, rhythmic drumming, and thrilling fire dancers. Shows are often held in the evening, providing the perfect end to a full day of exploration.
10. Kandy Lake & Lakeside Stroll
A tuk-tuk ride around Kandy Lake is another exciting way to see the heart of the city. Kids will love watching the ducks, spotting fish in the lake, and enjoying the picturesque scenery. There’s a path around the lake if you want to stop and stretch your legs, making it a relaxing way to explore Kandy’s natural beauty while staying close to the city.
Why Choose Kandy by TukTuk for Family Sightseeing?
Traveling by tuk-tuk offers the flexibility to hop from one place to another without the hassle of parking or navigating, making it ideal for family outings. Plus, children find tuk-tuks exciting, adding an extra element of fun to your journey through Kandy. Kandy by TukTuk’s drivers know the best routes and lesser-known shortcuts, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride for families with young kids.
Discover Kandy’s treasures and create lasting family memories with Kandy by TukTuk!