Kandy

At first glance

Kandy is Sri Lanka’s second-largest city, hill country capital, and sacred city. It is home to the famed Temple of the Tooth, the most revered relic of Buddha. It was the last ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka before the country fell to the British. It is the first stop before going deep into the highland and tea country, places such as Nuwara Eliya and Ella. The notable architecture of Kandy city and its culture remain dominant in Sinhala Buddhist culture. It played a principal role in the British colonialism, as Kandy was Sri Lanka’s last stronghold. Kandy Perehara is one of the most important religious events in the country and has been the case for centuries.

Things to See and Do in Kandy

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.
Kandyan Dance and Drum show let you soak up some of that unique culture.
The Spice Garden is a place to see famous spices in their natural habitat

Where to Shop in Kandy

You can shop for local handicrafts in Kandy city centre. Selyn handlooms, Jayamali Batik Studio, Rangala House Gallery, and Waruna Antiques are reputed places to do your Kandy shopping.

Where to Eat in Kandy

Theva Cuisine, Kandy Muslim Hotel, Kandy House, White House, Rockview, and Slightly Chilled Lounge are excellent choices for Kandy food.

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Best Times to Visit Kandy – It has favorable conditions all year. November to April is Kandy’s dry season.

Top Attractions

Temple of the Tooth Temple of the Tooth or Dalada Maligawa within the royal palace complex houses Buddha’s tooth relic. It was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD from India.

Royal Botanical Gardens This Kandy tourism hotspot is nearby the Mahaweli River. The 147 acres of garden contains more than 4000 species of plants including spices and medicinal plants.

International Buddhist Museum Situated inside the royal palace complex, this museum is a treasure trove of Buddhist knowledge and information. It showcases the spread of Buddhism in Asia.

Kandy Lake It is an artificial construction by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the last king of Sri Lanka. It is part of the temple complex and is a scenic sight and place of ritual.

Udawattakele Forest Reserve This forest reserve of 257 acres has a variety of plant and animal species. It was once a pleasure park for Kandyan kings. It has forest monasteries and cave dwellings.

Natha Devalaya This 14th Century Devala is the oldest Devala of Kandy dedicated to local and Hindu gods. It stands on a stone terrace surrounded by bodhi trees and dagobas.