Joanna James
Known as Sri Lanka's hill capital, the ancient city of Kandy offers much to experience for intrepid travellers. Explore this mountain citadel and gain unique insights into the island.
A picturesque area where one can spend time amidst nature and a range of multi-coloured blossoming flora, the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens is well worth visiting when in Kandy. The gardens are home to over 4,000 plant species, both endemic and foreign which make it a great place to explore, have a family picnic or enjoy a quiet stroll with that special someone.
One of the premier attractions in Kandy, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a definite must visit site while on your Sri Lanka tours. Home to what is believed to be a sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, the temple with its characteristic golden roof is part of the former royal palace complex which is home to some other temples as well. Visits to the temple are organised by local tour specialists the likes of Connaissance de Ceylan and those heading here in July / August have the chance to also witness the spectacular annual procession known as the Kandy Esala Perahera.
A protected forest reserve that is within easy reach of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the picturesque Udawatta Kele Sanctuary offers an unforgettable day out in nature. Once a royal reserve, this sanctuary has several trails to explore taking you deep into the heart of the forest. Featuring meditation hermitages used by Buddhist monks, the forest is home to animals like wild boar and mouse deer and also attracts plenty of avifauna making it a popular spot amongst bird watchers as well.
Home to a famous Buddhist statue, the Bahiravokanda Vihara is a sacred temple located on a hill offering a super vantage point of the city of Kandy. The site's massive statue of Lord Buddha is one of the most well known local landmarks and can be seen from various points in and around the city. The summit up to the temple can be tiring especially when undertaken in the hot sun, but the view at the top is certainly worth seeing.
A memorial to the many soldiers who gave their lives defending the country during World War Two, the Commonwealth Cemetery is a unique place to visit in Kandy. Dating back to the early 19th century, the cemetery has a rather peaceful setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city; reading the various engravings on the old tombstones offers an interesting perspective into the island's colonial history. The Commonwealth Cemetery is well kept and one can make a donation which will be used to continue in the upkeep of this historic site that remembers fallen heroes from Sri Lanka's past.
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