Quick answer
At Pallekele, choose the grass banks for a relaxed, lively day with views of the hills, a covered stand for shade and protection from the afternoon showers, and a side-on seat for the best view of the cricket. Banks are usually the cheapest option and popular with families and groups. Check the seating plan and prices when tickets go on sale, and bring a rain layer whatever you choose.
Key takeaways
- Grass banks are cheap, relaxed and good for groups and families.
- Covered stands give shade and shelter from afternoon showers.
- Side-on seats give the best view of the cricket.
- Bring a mat for the banks and a rain layer for any seat.
- Check the official seating plan when tickets go on sale.
How the ground is laid out
Pallekele sits in a broad valley east of Kandy, with a pavilion and stands on parts of the boundary and grass banks around much of the rest. Beyond the banks, green hills rise on every side, giving the ground its famous setting.
The mix of stands and banks gives visitors a real choice between comfort and atmosphere. The exact areas open to the public, and the prices for each, vary by match.
The ground is larger than the Colombo club grounds, so seats on the far banks are some distance from the pitch, though screens help.
- →Stands on parts of the boundary.
- →Grass banks around much of the rest.
- →Hills on every side.
The grass banks
The grass banks are Pallekele's signature. Families, groups of friends and travelling fans spread mats, unpack food and settle in for the day, and the atmosphere is cheerful and informal.
The banks are open to the sun and the rain, so a hat, sunscreen, a light rain layer and a mat or towel are essential. Arrive early on big days to claim a good spot.
For visitors, the banks are the best place to feel part of the crowd, and the views of the hills from the top of the banks are lovely.
- →Bring: a mat, hat, sunscreen and rain layer.
- →Arrive early on big match days.
- →Best for: atmosphere and views.
Covered stands and the pavilion
Covered stands give shade from the midday sun and shelter from the showers that often roll over the hills in the afternoon. They are usually more expensive than the banks and are the better choice for older visitors or anyone who wants a seat with a back.
The pavilion is usually reserved for officials, members and guests, and hospitality packages may be offered for some matches.
For a long Test day, many visitors choose a covered seat and walk to the banks for a session to enjoy the atmosphere.
- →Best for: comfort and rain cover.
- →Usually: more expensive.
- →Pavilion: officials and guests.
Weather and rain
Pallekele is wetter than Galle or Dambulla, and afternoon showers are common, especially in the inter-monsoon months. Many matches have been interrupted by rain, and some have been shortened.
A covered seat is the safest choice if rain is forecast, but even on the banks a light rain jacket or poncho makes a shower bearable. Mornings are often clearer, so the first session is usually the best for views.
Evenings can be cool by Sri Lankan standards, and a light layer is useful for day-night matches.
Families and groups
Pallekele is the most family-friendly of Sri Lanka's international grounds. The banks give children room to move, and the crowds are relaxed. Groups of friends often take a section of bank for the day.
Bring snacks and water, check the current rules on food, bottles and bags before you go, and plan a pick-up point in case the match ends early because of rain.
Lankan Stays & Trails can plan a Kandy stay around a Pallekele match, with a driver to and from the ground and sightseeing on other days.
- →Banks: room for children.
- →Check bag and food rules.
- →Plan for an early finish.
Match-day tips
The stadium is about 30 to 40 minutes from central Kandy. Traffic builds on match days, so leave early. Tuk-tuks and hired cars are the usual ways to get there.
Food and drink are sold inside, and cash is useful. Toilets and facilities are better in the stands than on the far banks.
After the match, Kandy's lake and restaurants are a pleasant end to the day.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best seats at Pallekele?
It depends on what you want. The grass banks are cheap, relaxed and have the best views of the hills, while covered stands offer shade and shelter from rain. A side-on covered seat gives the best view of the cricket. Check the seating plan when tickets go on sale.
Can you sit on the grass at Pallekele?
Yes. Grass banks run around much of the ground, and they are one of its best features. Families and groups bring mats and spend the day there. Bring a hat, sunscreen and a rain layer, as the banks are open to the weather.
Does it rain at Pallekele?
Afternoon showers are common, especially in the inter-monsoon months, and many matches have been interrupted. A covered seat is the safest choice if rain is forecast. Mornings are often clearer, so the first session is usually the best for the views.
Is Pallekele good for children?
Pallekele is the most family-friendly of Sri Lanka's international grounds. The banks give children space, and crowds are relaxed. Bring snacks, water and sun protection, and check the current rules on food, bottles and bags before you go.
Is there shade on the Pallekele banks?
Shade on the banks is very limited, so bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. If you need shade for the whole day, buy a covered seat and visit the banks for a session to enjoy the atmosphere.
How far is Pallekele from Kandy?
The stadium is about 30 to 40 minutes by road east of central Kandy, depending on traffic. Journeys take longer on match days, so leave early. Tuk-tuks and hired cars are the usual ways to get there.
Are Pallekele tickets cheaper on the banks?
Grass bank tickets are usually the cheapest option at Pallekele, but prices vary by match and series. Check the official seating plan and prices when tickets go on sale, and buy through Sri Lanka Cricket's official channels.