Trace last monarchy's story at Old Royal Palace
Kandy, Sri Lanka • 
Underrated
UnderratedKandy, Sri Lanka
Underrated
Best months to visit
Jan, Feb, Jul
18°C – 29°C, cool and dry with light rain, high crowds, peak season
18°C – 29°C, cool and dry with light rain, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Limited accessibility; uneven terrain and stairs present.
Limited accessibility; uneven terrain and stairs present.
Value for money
Medium
Entry fees are reasonable for the cultural experience.
Entry fees are reasonable for the cultural experience.
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Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Romantic Ambiance
Couples found the palace gardens and historical sites very romantic and serene.
Rich History
Couples enjoyed exploring the history and learning about the Kandyan Kingdom together.
Peaceful Environment
Visitors felt the environment was peaceful, offering a great escape for couples.
Confusing Ticketing
Some couples found the ticketing process for the complex to be confusing.
Limited Parking
Couples reported that parking near the palace can be quite limited.
Stairs Present
Couples with mobility issues found stairs to be a challenge at the palace.
Hours of operation
Monday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
-
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
April
MEDIUM
21-33°C
Hot with moderate rain and high humidity.
Hot with moderate rain and high humidity.
Open
Open from 9 AM to 4 PM; closed on Tuesdays.
Open from 9 AM to 4 PM; closed on Tuesdays.
Recommended
April's hot and humid conditions are accompanied by moderate rain. Visiting the Old Royal Palace is feasible, but be prepared for occasional showers and festive crowds during the New Year celebrations.
April's hot and humid conditions are accompanied by moderate rain. Visiting the Old Royal Palace is feasible, but be prepared for occasional showers and festive crowds during the New Year celebrations.
May
LOW
21-31°C
May marks the beginning of the monsoon season in Kandy, characterized by moderate rainfall and temperatures ranging from 21°C to 31°C.
May marks the beginning of the monsoon season in Kandy, characterized by moderate rainfall and temperatures ranging from 21°C to 31°C.
Open
No specific restrictions, but some outdoor activities may be affected by rain.
No specific restrictions, but some outdoor activities may be affected by rain.
Not recommended
May is the start of the monsoon season in Kandy, bringing moderate rainfall and cooler temperatures. Tourist crowds are minimal, and accommodation prices are generally lower. While the Old Royal Palace remains open, visitors should be prepared for wet conditions and potential disruptions to outdoor activities.
May is the start of the monsoon season in Kandy, bringing moderate rainfall and cooler temperatures. Tourist crowds are minimal, and accommodation prices are generally lower. While the Old Royal Palace remains open, visitors should be prepared for wet conditions and potential disruptions to outdoor activities.
June
LOW
22-30°C
June experiences increased rainfall due to the monsoon, with temperatures between 22°C and 30°C.
June experiences increased rainfall due to the monsoon, with temperatures between 22°C and 30°C.
Open
No specific restrictions, but outdoor activities may be limited due to rain.
No specific restrictions, but outdoor activities may be limited due to rain.
Not recommended
June sees continued monsoon rains in Kandy, resulting in lush landscapes but also potential disruptions to outdoor plans. Tourist crowds are sparse, and accommodation is more affordable. The Old Royal Palace is open, but visitors should be prepared for wet conditions.
June sees continued monsoon rains in Kandy, resulting in lush landscapes but also potential disruptions to outdoor plans. Tourist crowds are sparse, and accommodation is more affordable. The Old Royal Palace is open, but visitors should be prepared for wet conditions.
July
HIGH
21-29°C
July brings a mix of rain and sunshine, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 29°C.
July brings a mix of rain and sunshine, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 29°C.
Open
High demand during the festival may lead to limited availability; advance booking is recommended.
High demand during the festival may lead to limited availability; advance booking is recommended.
Recommended
July is a vibrant month in Kandy, highlighted by the Esala Perahera festival, which attracts large crowds. While the weather is a mix of rain and sunshine, the cultural festivities make it a unique time to visit. The Old Royal Palace is open, but visitors should plan ahead due to increased demand and higher prices.
July is a vibrant month in Kandy, highlighted by the Esala Perahera festival, which attracts large crowds. While the weather is a mix of rain and sunshine, the cultural festivities make it a unique time to visit. The Old Royal Palace is open, but visitors should plan ahead due to increased demand and higher prices.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
Buses from Colombo arrive at the Goods Shed Bus Station, near the railway station. Local buses also serve the Maligawa bus stop, a short walk from the palace.
Taxi
Recommended
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available for direct access to the palace entrance.
Train
Recommended
Trains from Colombo arrive at Kandy Railway Station, approximately 2 kilometers from the palace.
Bike
Renting a bike or scooter is a popular way to explore the city, offering flexibility and a local experience.
Car
Driving via Colombo-Kandy Road (A1) allows direct access, with drop-off near the entrance. Limited parking is available.
Walking
Walking is feasible from the city center (15-20 min from Kandy Lake area) or the Temple of the Tooth (5 min walk).
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required
