Kandy is a highland city of 160,000 people located in the central district of the island. It is 120 km away from Colombo and 100 km from Colombo International Airport. The city is a cultural and historical value of Sri Lanka, here is one of the most important shrines of the island – the tooth of Buddha. Kandy is protected by UNESCO and is part of the cultural triangle of the country.
Kandy on the map of Sri Lanka
Kandy was founded in the fifteenth century and was the capital of the Kingdom of Kandy, as the island of Sri Lanka used to be called. The most visited place here is the temple of Buddha’s tooth. Pilgrims and tourists come here to touch it. The road itself to the city is a great trip, because it is surrounded by jungle, tea plantations and mountains.
It is also a place where people come to spend the night before going to Adam’s Peak. Here you can see the tea museum and stroll through the colorful Lankan streets. There are hotels, cafes, and stores for tourists at every turn. Tour groups and independent travelers exploring the central part of the island by bus are the most common destinations.
- Explore the Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Relic of the Tooth, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka. It houses the relic of Lord Buddha’s tooth and is considered a place of worship and pilgrimage for Buddhists throughout the world. Visitors can see the grandeur of the temple’s architecture and immerse themselves in a serene atmosphere.
- Visit Kandy Lake
Lake Kandy, located in the center of the city, is a man-made lake built in 1807 by King Sri Vikram Rajasinghe. The lake offers a picturesque view of the surrounding hills and temples. You can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, rent a boat or just relax on the lake shore and enjoy the scenic beauty.
- Enjoy the botanical garden
The Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, located a short distance from Kandy, is a vast expanse of greenery and natural beauty. There are over 4,000 species of plants, including medicinal plants, orchids and palm trees. You can take a guided tour or explore the gardens at your own pace.
- Take a train trip
A train journey from Kandy to Ella is a must for any tourist. The train journey is considered one of the most scenic journeys in the world with breathtaking views of hills, tea plantations and waterfalls. The trip takes about 6-7 hours and is an unforgettable experience.
- Kandi Peraher Festival (held annually in August)
Kandy is known for its vibrant cultural shows that showcase traditional Sri Lankan dance and music. The Kandy Cultural Center hosts daily performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the island. You can watch the spectacular performances while enjoying a Sri Lankan dinner.
In conclusion, Kandy with its combination of natural beauty, rich culture and historical significance is a place that should be on every traveler’s list. With its ancient temples, picturesque lakes, botanical gardens and cultural shows, Kandy offers a unique experience that you will cherish for a lifetime. So, pack your bags, book your tickets and get ready to explore the wonders of Kandy!
