Kandy digital nomad guide: cost, vibe & internet

🌍 Overview

Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, is a haven for digital nomads seeking a unique blend of history, nature, and wellness. As a Kandy digital nomad myself, I can attest that this city has a special charm that draws you in and makes you want to stay. The city’s vibrant atmosphere, coupled with its rich cultural heritage, makes it an ideal destination for remote workers looking to experience something new. With a Nomad Score of 70/100 and a cost of living that’s relatively low, Kandy is an attractive option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

From the moment I arrived in Kandy, I was struck by the city’s laid-back vibe. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the city’s compact size makes it easy to get around and explore. As a digital nomad, I appreciate the city’s relaxed atmosphere, which allows me to focus on my work without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture, explore the surrounding countryside, or simply enjoy the city’s laid-back vibe, Kandy has something to offer.

🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads

When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to stay in Kandy, there are several options to consider. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Katugastota: This charming neighborhood is located just a short drive from the city center and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. With its picturesque streets and quaint shops, Katugastota is a great place to experience local life.
• Peradeniya: This upscale neighborhood is home to the University of Peradeniya and offers a more suburban feel. With its tree-lined streets and modern amenities, Peradeniya is a great option for digital nomads looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Kandy City: For those who want to be in the heart of the action, Kandy City is the place to be. With its vibrant markets, historic landmarks, and lively nightlife, Kandy City is a great option for digital nomads who want to experience the city’s energy.

Each of these neighborhoods has its own unique character, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preferences. As a digital nomad, I’ve had the opportunity to explore each of these neighborhoods and can attest that they all offer a great quality of life.

Cost of Living Breakdown

One of the biggest advantages of living in Kandy is the low cost of living. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for typical expenses:

• Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost anywhere from LKR 20,000-50,000 (approximately $110-$275 USD) per month.
• Food: Eating out at a local restaurant can cost anywhere from LKR 200-500 (approximately $1.10-$2.75 USD) per meal. Groceries can cost around LKR 5,000-10,000 (approximately $27.50-$55 USD) per week.
• Transport: A monthly public transportation pass can cost around LKR 2,000-3,000 (approximately $11-$16.50 USD). Tuk-tuks and taxis are also widely available and can cost around LKR 100-200 (approximately $0.55-$1.10 USD) per ride.
• Coworking: Coworking spaces in Kandy can cost anywhere from LKR 5,000-10,000 (approximately $27.50-$55 USD) per month.

Overall, the cost of living in Kandy is relatively low, making it an attractive option for digital nomads looking to stretch their budget. As a Kandy digital nomad, I’ve found that it’s possible to live comfortably on a budget of around $500-$700 per month.

Internet & Coworking

As a digital nomad, having reliable internet is essential. Fortunately, Kandy has a number of coworking spaces and cafes with good internet speeds. Here are a few of my favorites:

• The Hive: This coworking space is located in the heart of the city and offers high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, and a range of amenities. Membership costs around LKR 5,000-10,000 (approximately $27.50-$55 USD) per month.
• Kandy Cafe: This cozy cafe is a great place to work and offers fast internet speeds, delicious coffee, and a range of snacks. Prices are around LKR 200-500 (approximately $1.10-$2.75 USD) per meal.
• The Coffee Bean: This popular cafe chain has a number of locations in Kandy and offers fast internet speeds, comfortable seating, and a range of coffee and snacks. Prices are around LKR 200-500 (approximately $1.10-$2.75 USD) per meal.

Internet speeds in Kandy are generally good, with average speeds of around 49 Mbps. As a digital nomad, I’ve found that it’s easy to stay connected and productive in Kandy.

Digital Nomad Community

Kandy has a growing digital nomad community, with a number of meetups and events taking place throughout the year. Here are a few ways to get involved:

• Kandy Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great place to connect with other digital nomads in Kandy, ask questions, and find out about upcoming events.
• Nomad Meetups: These regular meetups are a great way to meet other digital nomads and remote workers in Kandy. They’re usually held at a local cafe or restaurant and are a great way to network and make new friends.
• Kandy Expats: This Facebook group is a great resource for expats and digital nomads living in Kandy, with a range of information and advice on everything from finding accommodation to navigating the local healthcare system.

As a Kandy digital nomad, I’ve found that the community is friendly and welcoming, and there are always plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make connections.

Culture & Lifestyle

Kandy is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there’s always something to explore or experience. Here are a few of my favorite things to do:

• Visit the Temple of the Tooth: This historic temple is a must-visit attraction in Kandy, with its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
• Take a walk around the lake: The lake in the center of Kandy is a beautiful place to take a stroll and enjoy the scenery.
• Try some local cuisine: Kandy is famous for its delicious rice and curry, and there are plenty of local restaurants and cafes to try.

As a digital nomad, I’ve found that Kandy is a great place to experience local culture and lifestyle. With its vibrant markets, historic landmarks, and lively nightlife, there’s always something to do or explore.

Visa Information

Sri Lanka offers a range of visa options for digital nomads, including:

• Tourist visa: This visa is valid for up to 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days.
• Digital nomad visa: Sri Lanka has introduced a new digital nomad visa, which allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to 1 year.

It’s always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements before traveling to Sri Lanka, as they can change. As a Kandy digital nomad, I’ve found that the visa process is relatively straightforward, and there are plenty of resources available to help with the application process.

💡 Practical Tips

Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind when living in Kandy:

• SIM cards: SIM cards are widely available in Kandy, and can be purchased at a range of shops and markets. A SIM card with data can cost around LKR 500-1,000 (approximately $2.75-$5.50 USD).
• Transport: Tuk-tuks and taxis are widely available in Kandy, and can be hired for around LKR 100-200 (approximately $0.55-$1.10 USD) per ride.
• Safety: Kandy is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Weather: Kandy has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 20-30 degrees Celsius (68-86 degrees Fahrenheit) throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April.

As a Kandy digital nomad, I’ve found that the city is a great place to live and work, with a range of amenities and services available. With its low cost of living, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty, Kandy is an attractive option for digital nomads looking for a unique and rewarding experience.