Not much has to be said about Kandy; the city has a reputation that precedes any introduction set in words, a reputation that holds value in historical, cultural, social and religious aspects. Moreover, the city is located in the midst of Sri Lanka’s central mountain range, and this provides Kandy with an unparalleled sense of natural beauty. Scattered all over the district are sacred landmarks and landscaped gardens, the river Mahaweli curving right through the city, markets and malls creating a most bustling atmosphere; all of these blend most immiscibly together to create a travel experience that truly is unlike any other.
Foremost in Kandy’s list of tourist attractions, is the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Known more commonly among local residents as Dalada Maligawa, it is the shrine in custody of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. The temple holds great significance in terms of religion, and ever so much in manner of history too, since the premises were once the royal palace complex, and remains well preserved even to this day. You find yourself in witness of the glory and magnificence of ancient Sri Lankan royal household, as well as tradition of art and culture. Moreover, in August of every year a procession is held in honour of the Sacred Tooth Relic (read more about the Dalada perahera here). Other places of worship and devout include the Gadaladeniya Temple, the Bahiravakanda Buddha Statue, the Nelligala Temple, and the Ambuluwawa Temple- latter of which has gained significant fame for the idyllic layout that spreads all around in you in way of a panoramic view.
As said previously, Kandy is surrounded by the Central mountain range of the island: a feat proved most beneficial in defence back when the city served as monarch capital. This also stands reason as to why the district is laden with rows upon rows of tea plantations and cultivation, forming a most picturesque aesthetic as you wander away from the hustle and bustle of the city square. Kandy is home to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, founded almost 200 years ago, when Sri Lanka was under colonial rule. Walking amongst the garden’s rich collection of flora and fauna gives you the feeling of having entered a world entirely different from what you know; a world crafted solely, by the gentle hands of Mother Nature.
If you’re more inclined towards understanding Sri Lanka’s culture, there are many museums and such that you should visit. From war cemeteries to the Ambekke Dewalaya, a place dedicated entirely to wood carvings done by ancestral craftsmen, Kandy provides you with the opportunity to step into bygone times and eras, glimpse at what lifestyle may have been all those years ago.
Just as in introduction, there is but so little to say in conclusion too; we know that Kandy is already on your list of destinations! It is that very essence of its imperceptible blend of all things cultural, social, religious and historical that seems to simply draw you in!
Be sure to check out our souvenirs section for local handicrafts to take back home as keepsakes; a little bit of Sri Lankan aesthetic that will, undoubtedly bring colour to your life!
