Kandy, located in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, is one of the island’s most culturally significant cities. Known as the last capital of the ancient Sinhalese kings, Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage destination. At the heart of Kandy lies the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world. The temple houses a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, drawing thousands of pilgrims and visitors each year, especially during the annual Esala Perahera festival, a vibrant procession of dancers, drummers, and elephants.
The city is surrounded by lush hills and a tranquil lake, offering beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk around Kandy Lake or explore the surrounding botanical gardens, such as the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, known for its vast collection of tropical plants.
Kandy is also a hub for Sri Lankan arts, crafts, and cultural performances. Traditional Kandyan dance and drumming can be witnessed in local theaters. The city’s lively markets, vibrant streets, and rich history make Kandy a fascinating blend of spiritual, cultural, and natural beauty, making it an essential stop for travelers exploring Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Visit the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
The Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred and revered sites. Located within the Kandy Royal Palace Complex, the temple houses a relic believed to be the tooth of the Buddha, making it a significant pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide. The temple’s history dates back to the 16th century when the tooth relic was brought to Sri Lanka from India, and it has since played a central role in the country’s religious and political life.
The architecture of the temple is stunning, with intricate carvings, golden decorations, and beautifully painted walls. Visitors can witness religious ceremonies and rituals, often accompanied by traditional music and chanting, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. The Tooth Relic Chamber is the focal point of the temple, where the relic is kept in a highly protected, ornate casket.
The temple also holds cultural events, such as the annual Esala Perahera, a grand procession featuring elephants, dancers, and drummers. Visiting the Temple of the Tooth offers both a cultural and spiritual experience, making it a must-visit in Kandy.
A stroll around Kandy Lake is one of the most peaceful and scenic experiences in Kandy. Located in the heart of the city, this artificial lake was built in 1807 by the last Sri Lankan king, Sri Vikrama Rajasinghe, as part of the royal palace grounds. The lake’s calm waters, bordered by lush greenery and the surrounding hills, offer a serene escape from the bustle of the city.
The circular path around the lake is ideal for a leisurely walk, where visitors can enjoy the cool breeze and observe local life. You’ll see picturesque views of the nearby Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which sits along the lake’s edge, and can often spot birds and monkeys along the shore. The royal gardens and small pavilions add to the charm, making it a perfect place for photography and reflection.
A walk around Kandy Lake is particularly enchanting during sunset when the golden light casts a magical glow over the water.
Stroll Around Kandy Lake
Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya, located just outside Kandy, is one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned and expansive botanical gardens. Established in 1371 and later developed by the British in the 19th century, the gardens cover 147 acres of lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
The garden is home to an impressive collection of over 4,000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. Highlights include the Avenue of Palms, the stunning orchid house, and the royal fernery, which boasts an array of rare and exotic plants. The Giant Javan Fig Tree is another famous attraction, with its sprawling roots and canopy providing a picturesque spot for visitors.
A stroll through the gardens offers a relaxing experience, with well-maintained pathways, tranquil ponds, and shaded areas perfect for a picnic. The Royal Botanic Gardens is a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to enjoy the serene beauty of Kandy’s landscapes.
Watching a Kandyan Dance and Cultural Performance in Kandy is a captivating way to experience Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Kandyan dance, a traditional art form that originated in the central highlands, is known for its graceful yet energetic movements, vibrant costumes, and rhythmic drumming. The performances are often held in cultural centers and temples around Kandy, especially in the evening.
The dances are accompanied by live music, typically featuring the drum ensemble, which includes the Geta Bera, a traditional drum that sets the pace of the dance. Dancers, dressed in colorful costumes adorned with intricate jewelry, perform energetic movements that tell stories from Sri Lankan folklore and Buddhist traditions.
One of the highlights is the fire-dancing act, where performers walk on hot coals or dance with flaming torches, showcasing their strength and fearlessness. These performances are often part of the cultural festivals in Kandy, like the famous Esala Perahera. Watching a Kandyan dance show is a mesmerizing experience that offers insight into the island’s vibrant cultural history.
Watch Kandyan Dance and Cultural Performances
Visit the Kandy Museum
The Kandy Museum, located near the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), is a fascinating cultural attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s royal history and the ancient Kandyan Kingdom. Housed in a colonial-era building, the museum showcases a collection of artifacts from the Kandyan period (16th to 19th century), providing valuable insight into the region’s royal heritage.
Exhibits include royal regalia, ancient manuscripts, paintings, weapons, and ceremonial items, some of which were once used by the Kandyan kings. The museum also displays personal items of the last king, Sri Vikrama Rajasinghe, including his royal attire and jewelry.
The museum’s collection is divided into various sections, offering detailed information about the royal court, religious practices, and local crafts of the era. It’s an excellent stop for history buffs and those interested in learning more about the cultural significance of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last capital under a monarchy.
Hiking to the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue offers a rewarding experience with stunning views of Kandy and its surrounding landscapes. Located on a hilltop just outside the city center, the statue is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka, standing at 88 feet (27 meters). The hike to the statue involves a short, moderate climb, but the effort is well worth it for the panoramic views of Kandy Lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and the lush hills of the central highlands.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take in the natural beauty of the area. The statue itself is an impressive sight, standing majestically against the backdrop of the mountains. Once at the top, you can admire the Buddha’s serene expression and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding grounds.
The Bahiravokanda Vihara is not only a religious site but also offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking views, making it a must-visit spot for those in Kandy.
Hike to the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue
Explore the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, located just a short walk from Kandy’s city center, is a tranquil haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This 257-acre forest reserve, also known as the Royal Forest Sanctuary, is a hidden gem within Kandy and offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Once a royal hunting ground for the Kandyan kings, the sanctuary is now a protected area that shelters a rich variety of flora and fauna.
The sanctuary is home to numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching, with highlights including the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie and white-faced starling. The forest is dense with trees like cinnamon, ebony, and sandalwood, along with medicinal plants. Several walking trails wind through the sanctuary, allowing visitors to explore the forest’s quiet beauty while enjoying views of the surrounding hills and Kandy Lake.
The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary offers a peaceful, scenic hike, perfect for those seeking to connect with nature in the heart of Kandy.
Shopping at the Kandy Market is a vibrant and immersive experience that offers a taste of local life and traditional Sri Lankan goods. Located in the heart of Kandy, the market is a bustling hub where locals come to buy fresh produce, spices, textiles, and handcrafted items. The market’s narrow aisles are filled with colorful stalls offering a variety of goods, including fruits, vegetables, tea, spices, batiks, handwoven fabrics, and wooden crafts.
A walk through the market provides an opportunity to engage with friendly vendors and sample some of Sri Lanka’s best-known products, such as Ceylon tea and curry spices. The market is also a great place to purchase souvenirs like handmade jewelry, artworks, and traditional wooden carvings.
For food lovers, the market is a great place to try local snacks and delicacies, such as kottu roti and fresh fruit juices. Shopping at the Kandy Market offers both a sensory adventure and a chance to experience Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture firsthand.
Shop at the Kandy Market
Visit the Ceylon Tea Museum
The Ceylon Tea Museum in Kandy is a fascinating destination that showcases Sri Lanka’s rich tea heritage. Located in the former Hantane Tea Factory, the museum offers a deep dive into the history and development of the island’s iconic tea industry. The factory, which dates back to 1925, has been thoughtfully transformed into a museum, preserving the charm of its colonial architecture while educating visitors about the evolution of Ceylon tea.
Exhibits in the museum include antique tea-processing equipment, old photographs of tea plantations, and documents detailing the life of James Taylor, who is credited with introducing commercial tea cultivation to Sri Lanka. You can also learn about the journey of tea from the plantation to your cup, exploring the steps of tea production, including withering, rolling, and fermentation.
A highlight of the visit is the opportunity to taste various blends of Ceylon tea in the museum’s cozy tea room, where you can savor the full flavors of Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea.
The Esala Perahera is one of Sri Lanka’s most vibrant and spectacular cultural events, held annually in Kandy during the month of Esala (July or August). This grand procession is a highlight of the city’s religious calendar and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. The festival honors the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which is paraded through the streets in a majestic procession.
The Esala Perahera features a dazzling display of traditional Kandyan dance, drumming, and fire displays, along with decorated elephants carrying sacred relics. The streets of Kandy come alive with color, music, and the rhythmic beat of drums, creating a truly immersive cultural experience. The procession also includes dancers, acrobats, and fire-eaters, showcasing the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Attending the Esala Perahera is a unique experience, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural traditions. The festival culminates with the final procession, where thousands of devotees gather to pay homage, making it a deeply moving and unforgettable event.
Attend the Esala Perahera Festival
