Kandy is a major city in Sri Lanka, located in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. It is the second largest city in the country after Colombo. It was the last capital of the ancient kings’ era of Sri Lanka.

The city lies in the midst of hills in the Kandy plateau, which crosses an area of tropical plantations, mainly tea. Kandy is both an administrative and religious city and is also the capital of the Central Province. Kandy is the home of The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most sacred places of worship in the Buddhist world. It was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1988.

Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

  • The most sacred Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, housing the tooth relic of Buddha.
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting thousands of pilgrims daily.
  • Features beautiful Kandyan architecture, golden shrines, and intricate murals.

Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake)

  • A serene man-made lake built by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1807.
  • Perfect for a relaxing walk, with views of temples, trees, and hills.

Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens

  • The largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka, covering 147 acres.
  • Famous for over 4,000 species of plants, including massive palm avenues, orchids, and giant Javan fig trees.

Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

  • A huge white Buddha statue offering panoramic views of Kandy city.
  • Best visited at sunset for breathtaking scenery.

Udawattakele Forest Reserve

  • A hidden forest sanctuary near the city, perfect for nature walks and birdwatching.
  • Once a royal hunting ground for Kandyan kings.

Ceylon Tea Museum

  • Learn about Sri Lanka’s tea heritage and see old tea-making machinery.
  • Enjoy a tea-tasting session with stunning hilltop views.

Kandy Esala Perahera (July/August Festival)

  • One of Asia’s most spectacular Buddhist festivals, featuring elephants, drummers, fire dancers, and cultural performances.
  • Held in July or August to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Kandy Viewpoint

  • The best spot for a bird’s-eye view of Kandy.
  • Ideal for sunset photography.

Degaldoruwa Cave Temple

  • A hidden rock temple with ancient Kandyan murals.
  • Less crowded, offering a peaceful experience.