Royal Palace Of Kandy (Wales Park) (Kandy) FAQs In 2026 - 2027

The Royal Palace of Kandy, also known as the Palace of the Tooth, is a historical palace situated in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It was the last residence of the Sri Lankan kings and is a well-preserved example of an ancient Sri Lankan royal residence. The palace complex includes several buildings and is adjacent to the sacred Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha.

The Royal Palace of Kandy is located in the city of Kandy, which is in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, near the Kandy Lake and adjoining the Temple of the Tooth.

Yes, visitors can tour parts of the Royal Palace of Kandy. However, some areas may be off-limits due to conservation efforts or religious significance. Tourists can also visit the National Museum of Kandy, which is located within the palace complex, to view artifacts and learn more about the history of the Kandyan kingdom.

The opening hours of the Royal Palace of Kandy can vary but are typically from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. It is advisable to check for any changes in opening hours prior to visiting, especially during public holidays and festival times.

The Royal Palace of Kandy holds immense historical and cultural significance as the last royal residence of the Kingdom of Kandy, which resisted European colonization for centuries before finally succumbing to British rule in 1815. The palace, along with the Temple of the Tooth, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Sri Lankan national heritage.

There is usually an entrance fee to visit the museums within the Royal Palace complex. It's recommended to confirm the current entrance fees as they can change, and different rates may apply for local and foreign tourists.

Highlights at the Royal Palace of Kandy include the King's Council Chamber, the queen's chambers, the royal audience hall, and the National Museum of Kandy which holds royal relics, the Raja Tusker Hall which houses the stuffed elephant 'Raja' which was a significant figure in the Temple of the Tooth's processions, and the Palace Gardens.

Visitors are expected to dress modestLily when visiting the Royal Palace of Kandy, especially the Temple of the Tooth, as it is a religious site. Clothing covering knees and shoulders is generally recommended. Removing shoes and hats is also a requirement before entering religious areas.

The best time to visit the Royal Palace of Kandy is during the cooler and drier months from December to April. However, even outside this period, mornings are usually the best time of day to visit to avoid the heat and crowds in the afternoons. Additionally, visiting during the Esala Perahera, an annual festival usually held in July or August, can offer a vibrant cultural experience, although it's much more crowded.

The most famous event associated with the Royal Palace of Kandy is the Esala Perahera, an annual Buddhist festival featuring processions of dancers, drummers, and elaborately decorated elephants. The event is held to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic and is one of the most significant and spectacular cultural events in Sri Lanka.