Kandy

Kandy is famous for its historical and cultural heritage. A city resting on a plateau in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, Kandy has many historical sites that would enchant visitors. A region with a cool breeze gently cascading down the surrounding hills and whispering past trees, the area is filled with a sense of tranquility and reverence. No doubt this atmosphere is brought about by the fact that the Temple of the Tooth (The Dalada Maligawa) features prominently in the region.

The golden canopy that shelters the most hallowed place in the temple is where the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha is preserved. During the conducting of the pooja (prayers) the relic is exposed to the public and the atmosphere inside the temple is so soothing and impressive that one feels the tranquility that envelopes all devotees. The tooth relic is not visible to the devotees as it is encompassed in a stupa (a dagoba shaped like an apparatus).

The Kandy Esala Perahera is a procession that is conducted on a grand scale in the month of July and August. This Perahera winds its way through the streets of Kandy with explicit pomp and pageantry. A notable feature is that the Sacred Tooth Relic is carried in a brightly decorated casket secure upon an elephant, as he walks with much pride and serenity, aware of the task that has been entrusted to him. The Perahera is filled with many events such as stilt walkers, Kandyan dancers (a skill that will keep you in awe), whip dances, and fire dances.

The Kandy Lake is a picturesque sight as it flows serenely as if aware of the presence of the Temple of the Tooth Relic. This lake was formerly a stretch of paddy fields and was transformed into a lake by King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha in 1807. The paddy fields had a pond set in the middle which was called Kiri-Mudu (Sea of Milk). Legends and folklore say that there was a small island in the center that was used by the King’s harem for bathing and this island was connected to the palace through a secret tunnel.

The beauty of Kandy rests in the fact that it is nestled in the midst of a range of mountains lusciously planted with tea. The rows of well laid out tea bushes create a different atmosphere to the area. The cool climate in Kandy gives an aura of freshness to the area.

25 Best Places To Visit In Kandy

Wondering what are the best places to visit in Kandy? Kandy has no dearth of places when it comes to exploring this beautiful hill station. With plenty of attractions and exciting places to visit, here are the top common as well as uncommon places to visit in Kandy. From museums to viewpoints, there is something for all kinds of travelers. Take a look!

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Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – An Experience Worth Relishing 

Temple Of Tooth Relic – For Spiritual Enlightenment

Kandy Lake – Best Place To Stroll Around

Hulu River Waterfall – A Sight To Behold

Knuckles Mountain Range – Hiking And More

Bahirawakanda Temple – For Spiritual Seekers

Ranweli Spice Garden – Natural Surprises

Royal Botanical Garden – A Colorful Affair

Udawattekele Sanctuary – More Than Just Greenery

CommonWealth War Cemetery – Learn The Legendary History

Millennium Elephant Foundation – An Educational Tour

Horton Plains National Park Ohiya – Witness The Wildlife

Ceylon Tea Museum – A Paradise For Tea Lovers

Wales Park – For A Peaceful Walk

Riverton Gap – Trekking And More

Highlands – Lose Yourself Amidst Nature

Galmaduwa Temple – Witness The Awe-Striking Structure

Ranawana Purana Rajamaha Vihara – For History Lovers

Pallekele Cricket Stadium – A Must Visit For Sports Fan

Giragama Tea Plantations – Absorb The Calm

Kandy Viewpoint – Be Mesmerized

Lankatilaka Temple – Marvel At The Structure

Hanthana Mountain Range – Hiker’s Paradise

Royal Palace Of Kandy – Legacy & Heritage

Degaldoruwa Temple – Oldest Buddhist Cave Temple