Joanna James
The cultural capital of Sri Lanka—Kandy—is home to a host of picturesque temples brimming with culture, heritage and tradition. Treat yourself to a tour of these sacred historic sites. Let yourself be taken back to the bygone era of the exotic ancient monarchy, amidst the charming central highlands.
Nestled in the sanctuary of the historic Kandyan royal palace, enjoying expansive views of the scenic Kandy Lake—The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic lies, in all her majesty, in the heart of Kandy. The world-renowned temple basks in the glory of housing a precious relic for Buddhists around the world - an actual tooth of the Lord Buddha himself. From dawn, till the darkness descends, the sacred site sees countless white-clad pilgrims every day, bearing fragrant blossoms and other offerings to the golden-roofed haven, where the holy relic rests in the protection of a series of six golden caskets of diminishing size.
Soaring above the emerald green mountains of the city of Kandy, the sight of the giant Buddha statue awakens your appetite for adventure, making you quit your city explorations and head to the exciting hills. Perched atop a dramatic summit, the Sri Mahabodhi Maha Viharaya, popularly known as the Bahirawakanda Temple, attracts hundreds of tourists just for its mountainous location. Lying at the end of a rather long flight of stairs is the highlight of the temple—a giant white Buddha statue—where you are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape.
Sitting on the outskirts of the city of Kandy, the "Gadaladeniya Rajamaha Viharaya" temple is well worth the trip out of the metropolis. Dating back to the 14th century, the historical artefacts, especially the striking stone carvings, will take you back to the golden days of the Kandyan kingdom. Soak up everything this secluded Buddhist temple has to offer and head back into the city, and retreat to one of the finest Sri Lanka luxury resorts in Kandy, such as Earl's Regency Kandy.
Boasting mind-blowing architectural splendour, the "Sri Lankathilaka Rajamaha Viharaya" temple is considered the most spectacular edifice of the Gampola era. Sitting on a dramatic rocky outcrop, the 14th-century Buddhist temple has a wealth of beauty for you to indulge in. Take a stroll through the picturesque religious site and let yourself lose in the charming ambience.
Architectural buff or not, a visit to the gorgeous Embekke Devalaya is a must-have on your Kandy itinerary, given its out-of-this-world architectural magnificence. Unlike most other Buddhist temples that call Kandy home, Embekke Devalaya is devoted to the guardian deity of Sri Lanka, the Kataragama deviyo. Don't forget to take your camera with you to this awe-inspiring temple, as it is brimming with Instagrammable photo ops.
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.
