Is Kandy Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Kandy supplied through the National Water Supply and Drainage Board is treated and generally safe to drink. It is monitored under Sri Lanka’s drinking-water standards.
Water quality can be affected by pipe damage, service interruptions, or poorly maintained building tanks. Boil tap water before drinking if it is cloudy, has an unusual smell, or follows a supply interruption, and avoid untreated well or stream water.
Last checked: 2026-09-06
Source of Water in Kandy, Sri Lanka
Tap water in Kandy is supplied mainly by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board. Its primary source is surface water from the Mahaweli River.
The river water is collected, treated, and disinfected at water treatment facilities before entering the distribution network. Some surrounding areas may also receive water from local springs or smaller sources.
Kandy Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Kandy generally use treated municipal water, but safety depends on the fountain’s maintenance, cleanliness, and connection to the water supply. Use one only if it is clearly maintained, has good water flow, and shows no cloudiness, odor, or visible debris.
Avoid fountains that appear damaged, dirty, stagnant, or rarely used, especially after heavy rain or water interruptions. For the lowest health risk, choose sealed bottled water or drink water that has been boiled or properly filtered.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Kandy. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
Nearby Places
About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.