Digital Nomad in Kandy, Sri Lanka: The full guide

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about Digital nomad in Kandy, Sri Lanka!

Why did the digital nomad quit his job and become a farmer? Because he wanted to work from “couch potato” instead of “couch to laptop”.

Atmosphere / Vibes

Palm Tree Growing on Beach
Photo by esrageziyor
If you’re a digital nomad looking for a laid-back, tropical paradise to set up shop, then Kandy, Sri Lanka should definitely be on your radar. Nestled in the central hills of the island, this city has a cool, misty climate that’s perfect for hunkering down and getting work done. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the city has a laid-back, bohemian vibe that’s perfect for creatives and freelancers.

Weather throughout the year

Brown Train Rail Surrounded of Green Leaf Tree in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Photo by Genine Alyssa Pedreno-Andrada
One of the best things about Kandy is the weather, which stays relatively consistent throughout the year. The temperature ranges from the low 70s to the mid 80s, and there’s always a pleasant breeze in the air. It’s not too hot, and it’s not too cold – it’s just right. There are two main seasons in Kandy: the dry season, which runs from December to March, and the rainy season, which runs from April to November. The rainy season can be a bit wet and humid, but it’s still a great time to visit, as the rain usually comes in short bursts and the temperature is still comfortable.

8 reasons why this is the best place for Digital Nomads

Photo Of Beach During Dawn
Photo by Alex Azabache
  • 1. Affordable cost of living: Kandy is a very affordable place to live, with cheap accommodations, food, and transportation. You can easily find a cozy guesthouse or apartment for under $300 per month, and the food is delicious and cheap.
  • 2. Fast internet: Kandy has fast, reliable internet, so you can get work done without any frustrating buffering or lag. Plus, there are plenty of cozy cafes and co-working spaces with good wifi if you need to get out of the house and work in a more social environment.
  • 3. Natural beauty: Kandy is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning temples. It’s a great place to clear your head and get inspired. Plus, there are plenty of hiking and outdoor activities to enjoy in your downtime.
  • 4. Cultural richness: Kandy is a cultural hub, with a long history and a diverse mix of people. There are beautiful temples, markets, and festivals to explore, and the city has a vibrant arts and music scene. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in new cultures and experiences.
  • 5. Easy access to the rest of the island: Kandy is a great base for exploring the rest of Sri Lanka. It’s easy to get around by bus or train, and there are plenty of cheap domestic flights if you want to visit other parts of the island.
  • 6. Good healthcare: Sri Lanka has good healthcare, with modern hospitals and pharmacies scattered throughout the country. Kandy has several good hospitals and clinics, so you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands if you get sick or injured.
  • 7. Delicious food: Sri Lankan food is delicious, and Kandy has no shortage of tasty restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls. From spicy curries to fresh fruit juices, there’s something for everyone here.
  • 8. Friendly locals: The locals in Kandy are some of the friendliest you’ll meet. They’re always happy to chat, share stories, and offer advice or help if you need it. This can make a big difference when you’re living in a new place, and it’s one of the things that makes Kandy such a great place to be.

Top 8 Things to do

Palm Tree Facing Sea
Photo by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi
  • 1. Visit the Temple of the Tooth: This ancient temple is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka, and it’s home to a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. The temple is a stunning example of Sri Lankan architecture, and the surrounding gardens are a peaceful place to relax.
  • 2. Take a train ride through the hill country: The train ride from Kandy to Ella is one of the most beautiful in the world, and it’s a must-do for any digital nomad visiting the area. The ride takes you through stunning forests and tea plantations, and you can stop at small towns along the way to explore.
  • 3. Go on a safari: Sri Lanka is home to some amazing wildlife, and there are several national parks and reserves in the area where you can go on a safari. You can see elephants, leopards, and a variety of other animals in their natural habitat, and it’s a truly unforgettable experience.
  • 4. Explore the markets: Kandy has some great markets where you can find all sorts of interesting souvenirs, crafts, and local goods. The Kandy market is a great place to start, and there are several other markets in the surrounding areas as well.
  • 5. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens: These beautiful gardens are home to a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees, and it’s a great place to relax and get some fresh air. You can take a guided tour, or just wander around on your own and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  • 6. Go white water rafting: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go white water rafting on the nearby Kelani River. It’s a thrilling experience, and it’s a great way to see the beautiful countryside from a different perspective.
  • 7. Take a cooking class: Sri Lankan food is delicious, and you can learn how to make some of your favorite dishes by taking a cooking class. There are several good cooking schools in Kandy, and it’s a fun way to learn about local culture and cuisine.
  • 8. Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: This elephant sanctuary is home to over 80 elephants, and it’s a great place to learn about these amazing animals and see them up close. You can even feed them and watch them bathe in the river, which is a truly unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Aerial Photography of Boats on Shore in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Photo by Tomáš Malík
Kandy, Sri Lanka is a digital nomad’s paradise, with a laid-back atmosphere, fast internet, and a low cost of living. It’s surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of things to do in your downtime. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or just a place to relax and get some work done, Kandy has something for everyone. So pack your laptop, grab your passport, and head to Kandy – you won’t regret it.


Wanna find out more about Kandy than just digital nomads? Here is another blog post about the top 14 things to do in Kandy

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Sri Lanka, such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa or Hikkaduwa.