Living in Kandy for Less Than $1000 – Reality or Myth?

If you’re considering relocating or traveling to Kandy, Sri Lanka, one question you may be asking yourself is whether you can live there for less than $1000. The cost of living in different cities around the world varies significantly, and Kandy is no exception. In this blog post, we’re going to delve a little deeper to examine the reality of living in Kandy for less than $1000, taking into consideration important factors such as housing, transportation, utilities, and food.

Cost of Housing

Kandy is home to many expatriates and students, which means there are several housing options available at different price points. While the rental rates of properties may differ from place to place, the average rental rate for a one-bedroom apartment is around $260 (47,868 LKR) per month. However, you may need to spend a little more on utilities, such as gas, electricity, water, and internet, depending on your usage.

Transportation Costs

Transportation in Sri Lanka can be quite affordable, and Kandy is no exception. The most popular mode of transportation in Kandy is the tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled motorized vehicle. The average cost of a tuk-tuk trip in Kandy is around $1.50 (280 LKR) for a short distance. However, if you prefer to take the bus, the cost could be even cheaper, with fares starting at around $0.20 (30 LKR).

Utilities Costs

One of the most significant expenses to consider when relocating to any city is utilities. Depending on your usage, the cost of utilities in Kandy can range from $60 to $100 per month (11,000 to 18,000 LKR). This includes your electricity, gas, water, internet, and mobile phone bills.

Food Costs

Food is a vital part of daily living, and the cost of it varies based on personal preferences. In Kandy, the average cost of a meal at a local restaurant is around $2-3 (300 to 500 LKR). If you prefer to cook at home, you’ll be happy to learn that fresh fruits and vegetables, such as pineapple, mangoes, papayas, and bananas, can be purchased at local markets at affordable prices. Meat and seafood can also be found at local markets or supermarkets, but they tend to be more expensive compared with fruits and vegetables.

Total Cost of Living Monthly

Based on the above estimates, the total monthly cost of living in Kandy for a single person could be around $435 (80,000 LKR) if you go for the most affordable options available when it comes to housing, transportation, utilities, and food.

Conclusion

It’s possible to live in Kandy for less than $1000 per month. However, this depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and willingness to make some consolations. If you are looking for convenience, for example living closer to the city, the cost of accommodation may increase, and overall, the living cost goes up too.We hope this blog post has provided you with a realistic insight into the cost of living in Kandy. You can, of course, adjust your expenses based on your personal preferences, but the figures discussed here provide a reasonable estimate of what you’ll need to live in the city of Kandy for less than $1000 per month. Happy travels!

An Insider’s Guide to Kandy, Sri Lanka

If you’re looking for an affordable travel destination in Asia, look no further than Kandy, Sri Lanka. Located in the central highlands, this city offers stunning views, a rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, all at a fraction of the cost of other popular tourist destinations. In this guide, we’ll show you how to live in Kandy for less than $1000, and highlight some of the city’s must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Exploring Kandy’s Attractions

Kandy is one of the most visited cities in Sri Lanka and home to several historical, cultural, and natural attractions that are worth visiting. The Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines, is the most famous attraction in Kandy. Other notable historical sites include the Royal Palace of Kandy, Bahirawakanda Temple, and Gadaladeniya Temple. When it comes to natural attractions, be sure to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, Udawatta Kele Forest Reserve, and the famous Kandy Lake.

Dining in Kandy

Kandy is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of restaurants offering delicious Sri Lankan cuisine at an affordable price. Try out local delicacies such as Kottu Roti, Pol Sambol, and Hoppers, which are all readily available throughout the city. A popular restaurant is The Empire Cafe, which serves dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Kandy Muslim Hotel is another popular eatery serving up traditional Sri Lankan and Indian cuisine.

Cultural Experiences in Kandy

Kandy is home to a unique cultural heritage that’s worth experiencing. Attend a Kandyan dance performance, an impressive traditional dance form that’s popular both locally and internationally. The Esala Perahera, a 10-day festival held every July or August, is a religious procession featuring many dancers and elephants. The National Museum of Kandy will also give you insight into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Local History

The city of Kandy has a vibrant history, dating back centuries. As the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings, it has many historical landmarks, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the Royal Palace of Kandy and the Natha Devale and Vishnu Devale temples. Additionally, Peradeniya University, which is one of Sri Lanka’s top universities, is located just outside Kandy.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Beyond the city’s main attractions lie lesser-known spots that are off the beaten path but offer stunning views and unique experiences. Visit the Dambatenne Tea Factory, a short distance outside Kandy, and learn how tea is made while enjoying the spectacular views of the surrounding hills. If you enjoy hiking, take a trip to the Knuckles Mountain Range, an area of mountain peaks, waterfalls, and wildlife. Finally, the serene and peaceful Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Viharaya temple is a beautiful, out-of-the-way temple that’s worth visiting.

Kandy is a beautiful and affordable city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage, trying out local cuisine, or venturing off the beaten path, you’re sure to have a memorable time in Kandy, Sri Lanka.