5 Top Things to See in Kandy – A Remarkable and Captivating City

The picturesque Kandy Lake is sure to strike the interest of the visitor as it is an attractive body of water situated in the midst of the city. In fact, this lake is a manmade construction that was decreed by the final monarch of Kandy as well as Sri Lanka, Wikrama Rajasinha. You will find that the environs of Kandy Lake are a delightful locality for a relaxed stroll, as it is a pleasant respite amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. A number of interesting legends are recounted with regard to this lake, one of which suggests that the aforementioned ruler constructed a concealed tunnel extending from his palace to the island that is found within the lake.

The much revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is unquestionably one of the most sacred sites in the island. This distinctive temple is believed to contain a tooth relic of the Buddha and is accordingly venerated by the Buddhists of Sri Lanka. During times of prayers and offerings, you will have the opportunity to view the golden casket in which the tooth relic is kept. This temple may be considered to be Kandy's foremost religious attraction. A unique event that is associated with this temple is the Esala Perahera which is an elaborate procession featuring elephants, drummers, singers, dancers, acrobats and other performers.

Sri Lanka is renowned as ranking amongst the top producers of tea on the globe. In the environs of the city of Kandy, you will find a host of expansive tea estates that are always interesting to visit. If you undertake such a visit you will have the opportunity to admire the beautiful tea plants and observe at first hand the process of tea production in the factory. A good choice to visit would be the Giragama Tea Plantation which is situated in proximity to the city. Here you will be able to observe the procedures that need to be undertaken for the refining of tea, ranging from Earl Grey to green tea.

Prominently positioned on a hill looking over the city of Kandy is the Bahiravokanda Vihara which features a colossal Buddha image that is considered to be a noteworthy religious monument. You will have the opportunity to ascend to the summit of the hill, but you should be conscious of the midday heat. From the summit of the hill, you will be able to experience spectacular views over the city and its surroundings. When seeking the best hotel in Kandy a choice of accommodation to consider from which this statue would be within easy reach would be Hotel Topaz.

Plant lovers and general sightseers alike will be enthralled by the splendid Peradeniya Botanical Gardens which has the distinction of being the largest and finest botanical garden in Sri Lanka. As you might expect you will find a remarkable selection of botanical specimens here, including such highlights as an impressive avenue containing royal palms, an outstanding selection of orchids, the Burma bamboo which stands 40 m in height and the remarkable cannonball fruit tree. You will also be captivated by the striking giant Javan fig tree which is located in the garden's great lawn.