Highlights
- The palace of the last Kandyan king, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha
- Holding the Tooth Relic gave a ruler the right to rule
- Most palace buildings are now looked after as museums and archaeological sites
Overview
The Royal Palace of Kandy was the seat of the kings of Kandy, the last independent kingdom in Sri Lanka, which fell to the British in 1815. Its buildings stand within the same complex as the Temple of the Tooth, beside Kandy Lake, and many of them now house museums.
What you see
- The Magul Maduwa (Audience Hall): a long open hall with carved wooden pillars, where the kings held court. The Kandyan Convention, which handed the kingdom to the British, was read here in 1815.
- The Queen's Palace (Meda Wasala): a smaller building with white walls and a courtyard.
- The palace buildings: some now hold the National Museum of Kandy, with objects from the Kandyan period, including weapons, jewellery and household items.
- The World Buddhism Museum: in the former colonial court buildings nearby.
Much of the palace was altered under British rule, so expect a mix of Kandyan and colonial buildings rather than an intact royal palace.
How long it takes
One to two hours, usually combined with the Temple of the Tooth.
When to go
Morning is quieter. Museum opening days vary; some close on public holidays and particular weekdays, so check locally.
Getting there
The palace is in central Kandy next to the Temple of the Tooth, a short walk from the lake and the town centre.
Practical tips
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as you are within a sacred complex.
- Photography may be restricted inside museums.
- Separate tickets may apply for the temple and the museums.
Visit the Temple of the Tooth, walk round Kandy Lake, or join our Kandy city tour. See things to do in Kandy and Kandy hotels.
Prices are as of October 2026 and may change.
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