05 Things to Do in Kandy – The Most Fascinating Attractions

The Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Tooth Relic is home to a sacred tooth of the Buddha. According to the ancient chronicles, it was believed that who so ever possessed the relic would rule the nation hence it remained in the possession of kings. The temple with its golden canopy roof is one the most iconic pilgrimage sites graced by Buddhist from across the country. Many traditional rituals are held at this temple which was once part of the royal palace. The annual perehera is a parade that starts from the temple and continues along the city streets of Kandy. Majestically dressed elephants are part of the parade with the most regal mammal being given the honour of transporting the most sacred tooth relic. Do visit this temple for a taste of culture, traditions and time honoured rituals.

This is the country's largest botanical garden home to a riotous variety of exotic plants. Thriving there are imperial orchids, fragrant roses, colourful blooms in many hues and large shady trees. This is one of the coolest hangout spots in Kandy to which many of the city's residents gravitate for some rest and relaxation. Open from 7.30 am to 5 pm the gardens are probably one of the first places you should visit in Kandy. Getting to the city, by the way, is a breeze as regular flights to Kandy are available right from the international airport. There are many domestic airlines such as Cinnamon Air that offer comfortable transfers to many points in the country.

Pinnawela is about an hour away from Kandy; the place is home to the Elephant Orphanage which has successfully bred the gentle mammals in captivity. You can time your visit to coincide with feeding times of the calves and even lend a helping hand nursing the cute elephant babies. Next follow the adult herd across the road to the riverside where they put up quite a show playing, bathing and enjoying the cool waters of the Mahaweli River. Take along the cameras forks for their will be many encounters worth chronicling at this camp while the fascinating souvenir shops stocked up with all sorts of elephant related memorabilia will prove to be a fascinating browse.

Historic Kandy Lake sits across from the ancient palace, right smack in the middle of the city. There is a footpath that runs around the lake making it a pleasant precinct around which to enjoy a tranquil saunter. One can enjoy boat rides on the lake although swimming is prohibited as the lake is considered sacred.

Gadaladeniya is an ancient Buddhist Temple that sits atop a beautiful hill. There you are rewarded with bird's eye views of the surroundings while exploring the temple. The complex itself is a marvellous structure of stone that displays unique South Indian architectural styles. Within are beautiful frescoes as well as intricate carvings.