Joanna James
Located a 3-hour drive from Sri Lanka's commercial capital Colombo, lies the countries hill capital- Kandy. The city surrounded by lush mountains, beautiful cultural locations and tea plantations.
Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Tooth Relic is one of the holiest temples in Sri Lanka that houses the relics of a tooth of Lord Buddha as the name implies. The temple is located on the grounds of the Royal Palace of Kandy, a place that was inhabited by the last king of Sri Lanka, King Wikrama Rajasinhe prior to the British invading the country. The best place to visit this temple is in August when the Asela Maha Perahara or the festival of lights happens. This festival attracts devotees from all over the country and the world and when the city is busiest.
The Kandy Lake was artificially built by King Wikrama Rajasinhe to complement the beauty of the Temple of the Tooth Lake. The construction of the lake was not completed due to the British invading the island in 1815. It remains the heart of this busy city and is a great place for a casual stroll that is only disturbed by the sound of vehicles and food vendors. It is one of the most scenic locations in the entire country which attracts both local and foreign tourists.
The conditions in Sri Lanka are ideal for growing spices and hence have attracted spice traders from all over the world. Spice gardens in Kandy are rich with spices such as nutmeg, pepper, cloves and cinnamon. Located a short drive from the Kandy city, the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden is home to over four thousand species of plants which include palm trees, orchids, medicinal plants and spices. You can even purchase spices at the markets located nearby.
There are lots of eateries to try in Kandy. From small restaurants that sell authentic Sri Lankan food such as Koththu, String hoppers, hoppers and pittu to restaurants that serve Indian food to fancy fine dining restaurants... the choices are truly endless. Similarly, there are lots of options to choose from when it comes to lodging in Kandy; whether you're looking for a dormitory, hotels that are home to some of the best wedding halls in Kandy similar to that of Hotel Topaz Kandy or a budget bed and breakfast, the choices are endless! Wherever you go or stay the people in Kandy are very friendly and are always willing to lend a helping hand.
Tea is one of Sri Lanka's main exports that contribute 2% of the country's GDP. Being one of the main suppliers for the tea demand across the world, Sri Lanka is home to many tea plantations and factories that produce some of the world finest teas. Visiting one of the plantations and taking a tour of how the tea is harvested, weighed and then produced at a tea factory is an experience you should be on your to-do list if you're a tea lover. At the end of the tour, you'll have the chance to even taste some of the brands of tea and purchase a brand you like to take back with you.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
