Must-Try Foods In Gadaladeniya Temple (Kandy) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Gadaladeniya Temple, Kandy, Sri Lanka - Food History

The Gadaladeniya Temple, with its rich historical background dating back to the 14th century, is one of the ancient Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. While the temple itself is not directly associated with a unique food history, the region surrounding Kandy has a diverse culinary tradition influenced by the various cultures that have inhabited the island over the centuries. Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, spices, and the use of coconut and rice as staples. Temple-goers and monks would traditionally partake in simple vegetarian meals, typically consisting of rice, vegetable curries, and dhal (lentil curry).

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Gadaladeniya Temple, Kandy, Sri Lanka

Kottu Roti (Non-Veg/Veg) - A popular street food dish made with shredded flatbread, vegetables, and optional meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.

Hoppers (Non-Veg/Veg) - Bowl-shaped pancakes made with fermented rice flour and coconut milk, with options for egg or plain, served with spicy sambols and curries.

String Hoppers (Veg) - Steamed rice noodles served with coconut sambol and curry, a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast dish.

Vegetarian Kottu (Veg) - A vegetarian version of the famous kottu roti, using vegetables and spices without any meat.

Vegetable Roti (Veg) - A flatbread filled with spicy cooked vegetables, folded into a square.

Polos Curry (Veg) - A spicy curry made with young jackfruit, known as polos, cooked with aromatic spices.

Dhal Curry (Veg) - A staple in Sri Lankan cuisine, made with lentils, coconut milk, and spices, served alongside rice.

Wambatu Moju (Veg) - An eggplant pickle or relish that is sweet and sour, often with a touch of heat.

Fruit Salads (Veg) - Fresh tropical fruit salads served with or without a chili and salt dressing, common in Sri Lankan cuisine.

Curd and Treacle (Veg) - Buffalo curd (similar to yogurt) drizzled with kithul palm tree syrup which is a traditional dessert.

Top Famous Restaurants Near Gadaladeniya Temple, Kandy, Sri Lanka

The Empire Cafe
Address: 21 Temple Street, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka
Famous For: Its blend of international and local flavors - must-try items include the vegetarian curries and the hoppers (Veg/Non-Veg options available).

Balaji Dosai
Address: 09, D S Senanayake St, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Famous For: Authentic South Indian cuisine - particularly known for their variety of dosas (Veg).

Senani Restaurant
Address: No. 287, Rajapihilla Mawatha, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Famous For: Its panoramic views of Kandy and a diverse menu of Sri Lankan fare with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Sharon Inn
Address: 59, Saranankara Road, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Famous For: Traditional Sri Lankan meals served in a homely setting – the vegetarian curry buffet is particularly noteworthy (Veg/Non-Veg options available).

Cafe Divine Street
Address: 12 Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka
Famous For: Freshly baked goods and light snacks, offering vegetarian options alongside a selection of teas and coffees (Veg/Non-Veg options available).

Remember that while visiting Gadaladeniya Temple and the Kandy area, indulging in local vegetarian dishes can be a respectful way to engage with the temple's peaceful and spiritual environment.