Discover the Vibrant World of Kandy Street Food

Kandy, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and ancient temples. But there's another reason why tourists flock to this historic city: the street food. The bustling streets of Kandy are a food lover’s paradise, filled with flavors, aromas, and textures that represent the vibrant and diverse culture of Sri Lanka.

If you’re a traveler with a love for food, experiencing Kandy street food is a must. Let’s explore the street food scene, popular locations, and how you can make the most of your visit to this beautiful city.

Getting to Kandy

Distance from Colombo

Kandy is located approximately 115 kilometers (71 miles) from Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital. The city is easily accessible by road, rail, or bus, making it a perfect day trip or an extended stay for those coming from Colombo.

• By Train: The scenic train ride from Colombo to Kandy is a popular choice for tourists. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, passing through lush landscapes and rolling hills.
• By Bus: A direct bus ride from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Kandy takes around 3.5 hours, with frequent buses leaving every 20 minutes.
• By Car: If you prefer to drive, the trip from Colombo to Kandy will take around 3 hours via the A1 highway.

Sea Level and Geography

Kandy is situated at an elevation of around 500 meters (1,640 feet) above sea level, offering a cooler climate compared to Colombo’s coastal weather. The city is surrounded by hills, tea plantations, and lush greenery, creating a stunning backdrop for exploring its bustling streets and food scene.

Kandy Street Food: An Authentic Taste of Sri Lanka

Kandy’s street food is a blend of sweet, spicy, and savory delights that reflect the city’s cultural influences. From Tamil-inspired curries to classic Sinhalese snacks, you’ll find a wide variety of dishes to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some of the must-try street foods in Kandy:

1. Kottu Roti

A staple in Sri Lankan street food culture, Kottu Roti is a stir-fried dish made from shredded flatbread (roti), vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat or cheese. It’s a symphony of textures, and the rhythmic clanging of metal spatulas against a hot griddle is a sound you’ll hear echoing from street-side stalls.

• Where to try: Head to Kandy Lake Club Restaurant or any of the street food vendors near Kandy Market Hall to sample a fresh, piping hot plate of Kottu.

2. Hoppers (Appa)

Hoppers are thin, crispy pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk. These bowl-shaped delicacies are often served with a fried egg in the center (known as Egg Hoppers) or with sambal and chutneys for added flavor. Soft in the middle and crispy around the edges, hoppers are a must-try breakfast or snack.

• Where to try: The small stalls around Dalada Veediya (near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) are perfect for grabbing a quick bite of freshly made hoppers.

3. Samosa

Though originally an Indian snack, samosas are widely popular in Kandy. These crispy triangular pastries are filled with a mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. They are deep-fried to perfection, making them a crunchy and satisfying snack.

• Where to try: You can find vendors selling samosas near Kandy Market, and they are often served with a side of spicy chutney.

4. Parippu Wade

Parippu Wade is a delicious fritter made from ground lentils mixed with spices and deep-fried. It’s crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, offering a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with a sweet tamarind dipping sauce.

• Where to try: Street vendors near Kandy Clock Tower are known for selling this popular snack, often enjoyed with a cup of Sri Lankan tea.

5. Sweet Treats: Kalu Dodol & Kokis

No Sri Lankan street food experience is complete without trying the local sweets. Kalu Dodol is a dark, sticky, and sweet confection made from coconut milk, jaggery (cane sugar), and rice flour. Kokis, on the other hand, are crispy, flower-shaped treats made from rice flour and coconut milk, often enjoyed during festive seasons.

• Where to try: Visit the Good Shed Bus Stand area to find vendors selling a variety of Sri Lankan sweets, perfect for satisfying your sugar cravings.

Ground-Level Experience: Immersing in Kandy’s Food Culture

To fully immerse yourself in Kandy’s street food culture, it’s essential to experience it on the ground level. Here are some tips for making the most of your culinary adventure:

1. Explore Kandy’s Street Food Markets

Kandy’s Central Market is a hub of activity, offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices, meat, and, of course, street food. Wander through the narrow alleys and discover hidden food stalls that serve local delicacies at affordable prices. It’s a sensory overload of smells, sounds, and sights—perfect for any food enthusiast.

2. Engage with Local Vendors

One of the best ways to learn about Kandy’s street food culture is by engaging with the local vendors. Most street vendors are friendly and eager to share stories about their food and recipes. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request recommendations—they might introduce you to something entirely new!

3. Take a Food Walk Around Kandy Lake

Kandy Lake, located in the center of the city, is a serene spot to explore on foot. Along the lake, you’ll find various food carts and vendors selling snacks like vade, cutlets, and fresh fruit juices. As you stroll around the lake, you’ll be treated to views of the surrounding hills and temples, making for a delightful and relaxing experience.

Popular Tour Itineraries That Include Street Food Stops

To help you plan your visit, here are some popular tour itineraries that include street food exploration in Kandy:

1. Kandy Day Trip with Street Food Adventure

• Morning: Start your day by visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka.
• Lunch: Head to Kandy Central Market for a street food lunch, where you can sample local favorites like Kottu Roti and Samosas.
• Afternoon: Take a stroll around Kandy Lake, stopping at food stalls along the way to try snacks like Parippu Wade.
• Evening: Visit the Kandy Cultural Show and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dance performance before ending your day with a street food dinner.

2. Foodie’s Tour of Kandy

• Day 1: Arrive in Kandy and explore the city’s historic sites, including the Kandy National Museum and Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue. In the evening, visit the Good Shed Bus Stand area for a variety of street food, including sweet treats like Kalu Dodol.
• Day 2: Start your morning with Hoppers from a local vendor, followed by a visit to Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens. For lunch, explore the food stalls near Dalada Veediya.
• Day 3: On your final day, take a trip to the Hanthana Mountain Range for a morning hike, then return to the city for a final street food meal at Kandy Market.

Practical Tips for Exploring Kandy Street Food

• Timing: Many street food vendors set up shop in the early morning or late afternoon, so plan your visits accordingly.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle, especially if you’re exploring the markets in the heat of the day.
• Eat Fresh: Street food is usually freshly prepared, but it’s always a good idea to stick to vendors who have a steady flow of customers to ensure the food is fresh.
• Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of the local culture and polite when interacting with vendors. A friendly attitude can enhance your experience.