Joanna James
As one of Sri Lanka's top holiday hotspots, the hills of Kandy offer visitors around the world a chance to experience a host of cultural hotspots. Here are 6 highlights to visit during a trip.
Regarded among Sri Lanka's most visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Temple of the Tooth is the main reason most travellers head to Kandy in the first place. Housed in a former palace compound, the Temple of the Tooth contains the actual dental remains of Lord Buddha. The priceless artefacts were believed to have been brought to the island by an Indian prince and his consort. Vast and imposing, the best time to tour this cultural hotspot is during the early morning hours when many of the rituals associated with paying homage to the tooth relic are also performed. Travellers can purchase flowers, incense and other offerings to lay inside the temple from the many flower shops outside the venue.
Occupying the ridge of a hill, the Udawattakele Forest Reserve is the perfect attraction for nature lovers touring Kandy. Laden with scenic hiking trails and ideal for long walks in nature, the sprawling forest reserve is a historic attraction that has truly withstood the test of time. Day trippers and bird watching enthusiasts will also enjoy a stroll in the verdant confines of this wildlife sanctuary as it serves as the hillside home of many winged beauties. Tourists will be handed a map of the entire reserve upon entering the sanctuary with detailed walking trails and hiking paths indicated for reference.
Abloom all year round, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kandy is not just a point of interest that's reserved for horticulturists and nature lovers. As one of the most picturesque corners of the city, the gardens are among the first to have been established as a botanical hotspot in the island. Those who wish to see the rose gardens must visit when the flowers are in bloom for the summer season although most of the park's many trees and flower plants are in full bloom during most months. Tranquil and isolated, the garden is also one of the most romantic spots in Kandy while a gift shop and a cafe are also on-site.
Tipped to be one of the largest Buddha statues in the country, the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha is a mammoth sculpture that commands impressive views from a hill top in Kandy. Travellers must walk up to the highlight along the steep steps that lead up to the statue which looks out over the sacred city as a watchful guardian. Those based at Cinnamon Citadel Kandy or any similar hotels in Kandy Sri Lanka will find that the venue is within close range of their accommodation provider.
From boat cruises to enjoying a jog in the morning, the Kandy Lake is at the heart of many recreational activities in the hill capital. Feeding the ducks is another popular pastime among locals who stop by the lake which serves as a welcome respite from the heat and traffic jams of Kandy.
As the city's largest shopping mall, no trip to Kandy would be complete without a shopping spree at this retail complex. With tasteful souvenirs, clothing, accessories and a large food court to its name, the mall is a favourite hangout hub for the youth in the city.
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.
