The Kandy Food Trail

Sri Lankan cuisine has been influenced by many different cultures from across Asia and Europe. Each region has its own unique dishes too, and Kandy is no exception. This on-foot food tour highlights the city’s multicultural diversity and how this has influenced its favourite flavours.

  • Enjoy a variety of snacks and drinks influenced by different cultures
  • Discover Kandy’s fascinating past through its culinary heritage
  • Indulge in healthy but hearty vegan-friendly dishes

What's Included ?

Host and food

Comfortable clothing

Go on a stroll through the historic streets of Kandy to taste its assorted food that reflects influences from across the world. This culinary trail starts at a popular eatery to sample freshly-prepared vegan curries that are a Sinhalese staple, followed by a taste of hot dosa, vade and other Tamil tidbits at a nearby restaurant. Next, head back out into the streets for a tasting tour of the crispy, salty, spicy and sugary snacks that are served roadside by vendors with wheelable food cards. One stall excels in healthy vegan dishes and serves a variety of soya-based treats including ice cream. Conclude your trail with a salad at a modern café or with a drink at an old colonial hotel.

Are the food options on this culinary trail suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

Absolutely! The culinary trail through Kandy offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including freshly-prepared vegan curries, soya-based treats, and refreshing salads. Whether you follow a plant-based diet or simply enjoy exploring meat-free options, there’s something delicious for everyone to enjoy on this food adventure.

While Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its bold and flavorful spices, the level of spiciness can vary depending on personal preferences and individual dishes. Some of the snacks sampled during the tasting tour may have a spicy kick, but vendors typically offer a range of options to suit different taste preferences. If you’re sensitive to spice, be sure to communicate your preferences to your host or the vendors.

The duration of the culinary trail can vary depending on the pace of the group and the specific stops included in the itinerary. Typically, the trail lasts about 2.5 hours, allowing ample time to sample various dishes and explore the vibrant food scene of Kandy. While there is some walking involved as we navigate the historic streets and visit different eateries and vendors, the trail is designed to be leisurely and enjoyable for participants of all fitness levels.

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A feast for the senses

This indeed was a highlight of my visit to Sri Lanka. From the moment we sampled the freshly-prepared local snacks at popular eateries, I knew this experience would be something special. Each stop along the way offered a delightful array of flavors and textures, from the hot dosa and vade to the crispy snacks served by vendors. I particularly enjoyed the soya vegan ice cream, which provided a refreshing and guilt-free indulgence. This culinary adventure was a feast for the senses and a wonderful way to explore Kandy’s diverse food scene.

Review by Emily K. - January 20, 2024
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A unique glimpse into the city's rich culinary heritage

My Kandyan culinary journey exceeded all expectations. Starting with the flavorful Sri Lankan Kevili and progressing through the tantalizing Tamil tidbits, each stop provided a unique glimpse into the city’s rich culinary heritage. Sampling the crispy, salty, spicy, and sugary snacks was a true delight, and I was impressed by the variety and quality of options available. Finishing the trail with a drink at the Queen hotel provided the perfect ending to an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend this culinary adventure to anyone looking to explore the vibrant flavors of Kandy.

Review by David H. - March 5, 2024
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