Attractions
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
One of Sri Lanka's most significant religious and cultural monuments is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which is situated in the city's centre. It is an important site of pilgrimage for Buddhists all over the globe because it contains the holy tooth relic of Lord Buddha. The temple's elaborate carvings and golden dome are examples of traditional Sri Lankan architecture. The regular rites and ceremonies that take place at the temple are fascinating to see and contribute to its spiritual atmosphere.
Kandy Lake (also spelt Kiri Muhuda or Bogambara Weva)
This gorgeous man- made lake is also referred to as the "Sea of Milk." It was built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe and acts as the city's charming hub. The lake offers a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls, picnics, and boat excursions since it is surrounded by rich vegetation and a beautiful landscape. A mesmerising and enchanting environment is created in the evening by the city lights reflecting in the lake.
Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens
Located just outside of Kandy, the 147-acre Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens are home to an astonishing array of rare plants and animals. These gardens, which rank among the best in Asia, were built in 1821 during the British colonial period. Visitors may explore a wide variety of plants, such as medicinal plants, palm trees, orchids, and a substantial collection of tropical spices. The Cannonball Tree, the Orchid House, and the Avenue of Palms are just a few of the delights that make this botanical park a must-see location.
The Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
which is perched atop Bahirawakanda Hill and provides a bird's-eye view of Kandy, is towering and imposing. Approximately 88 feet tall and visible from all around the city is the enormous white Buddha statue. Visitors may ascend the hill to gain a better view of the monument and take in the breathtaking panoramas of the surroundings.
Udawattakele Forest Reserve
Just beyond Kandy's municipal limits, the Udawattakele Forest Reserve is a hidden treasure for outdoor aficionados. Hiking and birding are also possible in this lush rainforest, which gives a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The reserve is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including monkeys, birds, and sometimes views of deer. A trip to this serene woodland is the ideal way to get back in touch with nature.
Kandy Cultural Show
Attend the Kandy Cultural Show to fully experience Kandy's rich cultural history. This enthralling performance, which takes place at several locations across the city, showcases the Kandyan dance, fire dance, and other traditional dances from Sri Lanka. The vibrant costumes, steady drumming, and acrobatic performances highlight the island's rich creative past and make for an enjoyable evening for visitors.
Ceylon Tea Museum
The Ceylon Tea Museum, which is situated in Hantana, close to Kandy, is where you can learn about the intriguing history and manufacturing techniques of Sri Lanka's famed Ceylon tea. The museum, which is located in a former tea mill, provides visitors with information on the development of Sri Lanka's tea industry. Discover the whole process of manufacturing tea, from picking the leaves to the finished product, while taking in the beautiful views of the tea farms that surround the museum.
Embekke Devalaya
About 8 km from Kandy, Embekke Devalaya is a magnificent old temple devoted to the Kataragama deity. The temple is well known for its finely carved wooden pillars, which display superb workmanship from the fourteenth century. With intricate carvings of numerous animals, dancers, and floral patterns, each pillar has a distinct design. A testimony to Sri Lanka's extensive architectural and cultural legacy is Embekke Devalaya.
Lankatilaka Vihara
This magnificent old temple, which dates back to the 14th century, is situated on the outskirts of Kandy. The temple, perched on a rocky ledge, provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The big standing Buddha statue within the temple is a major attraction, and the inside walls are decorated with exquisite paintings showing episodes from Buddhist mythology.
Knuckles Mountain Range
The Knuckles Mountain Range is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This UNESCO World Heritage site is around an hour's drive from Kandy and is a hiking and trekking lover's heaven. The range is home to a variety of plants and animals, stunning scenery, and gushing waterfalls. Visitors are rewarded with a feeling of accomplishment and priceless memories as they navigate the difficult routes that lead to spectacular vistas.
Just a handful of the amazing tourist destinations in and around Kandy are listed here. Every place provides a distinctive experience that combines spirituality, the outdoors, culture, and history to give visitors a memorable voyage.