Kandy

A brief look

Kandy is the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, as well as the hill country's capital and a sacred city. It is the location of the fabled Temple of the Tooth, which houses Buddha's most prized relic. It was Sri Lanka's last ancient kingdom before the nation was conquered by the British. It's the first stop before heading deep into the highlands and tea country, to locations like Nuwara Eliya and Ella. Kandy's notable architecture and culture continue to be dominant in Sinhala Buddhist culture. Kandy was Sri Lanka's last stronghold, so it played an important role in British colonialism. Kandy Perehara has been one of the most prominent religious celebrations in the country for generations.

Popular Tourist spots

Temple of the Tooth

Within the royal palace complex, the Temple of the Tooth, or Dalada Maligawa, houses Buddha's tooth relic. It was brought to Sri Lanka from India in the fourth century AD.

Kandy Lake

It is a man-made structure built by Sri Lanka's last ruler, King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. It is a magnificent sight and a location of ceremony that is part of the temple complex.

Royal Botanical Gardens

This Kandy tourist attraction is close to the Mahaweli River. The 147-acre garden comprises almost 4000 plant varieties, including spices and medicinal herbs.

Udawattakele Forest Reserve

This 257-acre woodland reserve is home to a diversity of plant and animal species. It was previously a Kandyan king's pleasure garden. It has woodland monasteries as well as cave houses.

International Buddhist Museum

This museum, located within the royal palace complex, is a treasure mine of Buddhist wisdom and information. It depicts the expansion of Buddhism throughout Asia.

Natha Devalaya

This 14th century Devala is Kandy's oldest, devoted to indigenous and Hindu gods. It is built on a stone terrace and is bordered by bodhi trees and dagobas.

To Do List

Bahirawakanda Viharaya Buddha Statue perched on a hill is 88ft tall.
Ceylon Tea Museum tells the story of tea in Sri Lanka with its vintage exhibits.
The Railway Museum showcases trains from Sri Lanka’s past.
The Spice Garden is a place to see famous spices in their natural habitat.
Kandyan Dance and Drum show let you soak up some of that unique culture.