Joanna James
You will find that there are several must-do things when it comes to experiencing the city of Kandy; these include visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, exploring the Botanical Gardens and much more!
The foremost sightseeing attraction in Kandy would undoubtedly be the greatly venerated Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. As its name suggests, this well-known place of worship houses a tooth relic of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. If you arrive at this temple at the right time, you will have the opportunity to observe local devotees; you can watch as they make their way through numerous chambers to reach the casket containing the relic, leaving offerings and praying beneath the ornate religious murals. You will find that the temple has a discernible spiritual ambience, with an atmosphere of calm reverence.
Another not-to-be-missed experience in the environs of Kandy would be visiting the magnificent Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. As you might expect, you will encounter a splendid collection of botanical specimens at these gardens, with many unusual and absorbing trees, plants and flowers amongst them. Make sure to experience the royal palm avenue which presents an impressive sight for the visitor. Other highlights at these gardens include the unmistakable cannonball tree and the renowned collection of orchids. After completing your sightseeing, you may take a respite and relax at one of the extensive lawns, ideal for a picnic too.
Another captivating religious attraction in Kandy would be the eye-catching Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue. You will see that this massive statue, measuring 27 m tall, stands on top of a hill looking over the city of Kandy; you will be able to experience stunning views across the surrounding areas from this location. While a daytime visit offers much to see so does one at night when this statue is beautifully illuminated. A choice of accommodation to consider from which you could plan a visit to this statue would be Hunas Falls which also offers attractive hotel deals in Sri Lanka for holidays to the hill country.
Your experience of the attractions of Kandy would not be complete without taking a relaxed stroll around the centrally located Kandy Lake. This manmade lake was constructed by order of the final ruler of Kandy and presents a pleasant sight for the visitor. Walking around this picturesque lake in the evenings will be an agreeable experience and a great way to relax after your sightseeing adventures in the city. Visitors will find that they will be able to walk around the circumference of the lake, a distance of approximately 3 km, in an hour or so.
The famed train ride from Kandy to Ella is rightfully considered to rank amongst the most scenic train journeys that you will have the opportunity to experience anywhere in the world. As you proceed on this train ride, you will have the chance to view mist-covered forests, lush tea estates, surging streams and waterfalls and charming towns which will undoubtedly become a memory to treasure. The atmosphere that you will experience on this journey will also be one of its attractions and sometimes, this includes friendly locals singing and making merry along the way.
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.
