Joanna James
The capital of the central province of Sri Lanka, Kandy is uniquely placed on a plateau, ensconced by mountains endowed with biodiverse rainforests and beautiful vistas of tea plantations. Be lulled by the greenery and blue skies as you explore the treasures this city beholds.
The 'Kandy Lake' draws crowds due to the picture-perfect backdrop created by the iconic 'Temple of the tooth', and the awe-inspiring lush rainforests rising above. An early morning walk around the lake gives one a sense of tranquillity whilst an evening walk with your loved one makes it a romantic rendezvous.
The Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya is renowned as one of the best places to visit in Kandy. A paradise for nature lovers, with artistically designed lawns, avenues lined with palms, greenhouses laden with different species of plants, medicinal herbs and a spectacular collection of orchids and other flowers.
The majesty of the elephant is admired, held in awe, and revered in Sri Lanka. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a must-do visit to witness the man's bond with the elephant. Feed the baby elephants, watch them play, do a majestic ride are a few of the things one can do at Pinnawala.
Stroll around Kandy Market and be amazed at the smells, colours and atmosphere to appreciate the blend of diverse cultures. Tea, tropical fruits, local spices, herbal oils & creams for your indulgence, handicraft items, clothing in vibrant colours, and charming accessories to pamper yourself with.
Savour the culinary delights, be it Sri Lankan dishes using the indigenous spices, exuding mouthwatering aromas or international cuisine suiting your palate, feel happy and replete experiencing fine dining at Earl's Regency Kandy, or at many other restaurants dotted along the streets.
This iconic building which enshrines the 'sacred tooth relic' of Lord Buddha is revered by Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site sitting majestically on a backdrop of lush rainforests and soothed by the breeze from Kandy Lake is also a visitors' attraction.
Visit this coldest and windiest spot on the island, to witness the spectacular beauty it beholds and being 2,100 metres above sea level. In addition experience the rich biodiversity consisting of several endemic florae and fauna.
Kandy Esela Perahera is a pageant awaited by locals and visitors in July or August each year. The procession is a sight worth seeing consisting of many cultural dancers such as Kandyan dancers, fire dancers, whip dancers to the accompaniment of drum beats. All dancers and the majestic elephants are bedecked in different finery adding grandeur and excitement to the pageant.
A legacy from the British, tea plantations flourishes all over Sri Lanka. Experience the intricate process of turning out that perfect blend of tea on a visit to one of the many tea factories, enjoy walking through bushes of luscious tea and enjoy that perfectly brewed cup of tea to energize yourself!
Visit St Paul's Church Kandy to see beautiful stained windows, rows of pews seemingly locked in time and Gothic Revival Architecture adding to the peace and solitude.
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