Entrap mighty sounds and sights of Kandy while you journey through history and culture as the city unfolds a legacy of grandeur, charm and colour.
Kandy, the capital of the hill country, portal to the lush green tea-covered central highlands and a renowned tourist destination; is a charming city offering a wide range of amazing experiences for all visitors. Centrally located in the island with easy access by all means of transport, Kandy is an ideal destination for most tours which begin from Colombo, the cultural triangle or upcountry. This dynamic city is packed with historical heritage and traditional culture with poised temples, stunning botanical and spice gardens, a beautiful and serene lake, frenzied colourful markets and surrounded by picturesque mountains and landscapes.
Visiting the Temple of the Tooth has been revered a must see for its significance in being the most valued and sacred place for the Buddhists in the entire country since it houses the tooth relic of Lord Buddha, enshrined in a golden casket. It is situated within the Royal Palace Complex which is a major attraction of beauty. Both the Temple and Palace Complex are adjacent to the breathtakingly beautiful Kandy Lake, Kandy’s centrepiece. Many historic sites that are worth visiting are the Lankathilaka Temple, Galadeniya Temple and Embekke Temple.
Kandy comes alive during the month of July or August as the Temple of the Tooth celebrates its annual street parade known as the Esala Perahera or Kandy Perahera, The sacred relic enshrined within a golden chest is gently carried on a magnificently dressed elephant. This glorious, age-old procession is undeniably one of the most spectacular celebrations in Asia.
A city that holds pride and glory for the Kandyan culture reflected in the forms of art, music and dance. Kandyan Cultural dance shows are spectacular with ornately dressed dancers moving fervently to the sound of drum beats.
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, Kandy is the largest botanical garden in the island and one of the greatest in Asia. Delve through the gardens and embrace the beauty of flora and nature.
Places such as the British War Cemetery bring back history when you learn and see many tombs buried in honour of those who died in the Second World War. The Kandy Museum exhibits all pieces and artifacts from the Kandyan Kingdom.
Renowned for its spices, Sri Lanka’s spice gardens are located in and around Kandy. Explore these gardens and get a glimpse of how the spices are grown and processed.
Kandy town is a vibrant cultural mix of chaos and charm, with busy markets, streets abuzz with people of all religions and ethnicities. There are many activity based excursions where you can encounter in absorbing the views and sights of Kandy, such as walking by the Kandy Lake, guided city tours and visiting the tea plantations and factories and see how Sri Lanka’s famous tea is processed and produced from the leaf to the cup.
There are many things to do beyond Kandy. Revered to be one of the most beautiful golf courses in Asia, the Victoria Golf Club and Country Resort, is 40 minutes away from the city. There is a lovely international cricket stadium in Pallekele where thousands attend to watch international cricket matches. The nearby Knuckles Mountain Range is an ideal and beautiful location for hiking and trekking.
So pack your bags and head on to Kandy for a wonderful experience through treasures of culture and iconic charm.
