Joanna James
Kandy is a small, charming town atop a plateau enveloped by humongous green mountains. If you're planning on visiting Kandy, here are some of the best places to see.
The gorgeous Kandy Lake is hard to miss, especially as it is located in the very heart of Kandy town, adding a scenic touch to the landscape. An evening stroll along the pathway that lines this huge body of water is the ideal way to get a workout in while also admiring the various birds, ducks and lizards lounging by the side. However, during the week, the roads beside Kandy Lake tend to be quite busy during after-work hours, so head over in the morning for a quieter and calmer experience. You can sit on one of the many benches and chat with the locals or read a book!
Kandy is known as the cultural capital, for a very specific reason, the existence of the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Also known as Dalada Maligawa, this temple is said to be extremely symbolic amongst the majority Sinhala Buddhist population in Sri Lanka, as it is said to house the tooth of Lord Buddha. When visiting Dalada Maligawa, you need to be dressed appropriately; covering your knees and shoulders and remember to remain respectful throughout. A visit to this temple is a must if you travel to Kandy. If you're in Sri Lanka during the first couple of weeks in August, this is when the festival 'Esala Perahera' occurs. This festival is spectacular, with fire dancers and elephants dressed elaborately.
If you're looking to learn more about the history of Buddhism and Kandy in detail, head to the Kandy National Museum, which is within the walls of Dalada Maligawa. You'll find fascinating collections of jewellery, coins, armaments, and relics. The mains of the Royal Palace will give you a better understanding and insight into the royal lifestyle back in the day.
For an array of beautiful flora and fauna, head to Royal Botanical Gardens, home to over 4000 varieties of plants! You'll spot several exotic flowers, mainly orchids, within the gardens. Located on the very outskirts of Kandy, this is a must-visit as explained by Kandy Escapes. You can take a long stroll or even request a cart if you're not up to walking!
After all the exploring and learning, you can head to Kandy City Centre, known by its acronym KCC. KCC is home to a multitude of boutiques, grocery stores, souvenir shops and even a cinema! Boasting a state-of-the-art food court on its rooftop, KCC is ideal for your dose of shopping and refreshments. The best part is that KCC is located conveniently in the heart of Kandy town, right beside Kandy Lake. For the shopaholics and foodies, KCC will undoubtedly be a memorable stop.
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.
