Joanna James
Kandy in the central highlands strikes almost all tourists to the Indian Ocean island nation as a remarkably charming city, which in actuality is no less true. Bathed in this endearing charm is a host of wonderful sites, awaiting to show you the best of the hill country's picturesque capital.
A place of spellbinding beauty for the tourists and one of the most sacred places of worship for the locals, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic hasn't had a day in its history where it isn't lively with tourists and locals alike, who come to experience its majesty. Shortly, the Temple of the Tooth, is renowned for housing a precious Buddhist relic — a tooth relic of the Lord Buddha himself — which draws heaps of crowds to the island nation's lovely hill country.
The charming city of Kandy basks in the glory of being home to not only one, but also the largest of the five botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. Extending over a whopping 147 acres, the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya just outside the Kandy city is one sprawling nature haven. The crown jewel in the hill capital is blessed with oodles of nature and beauty, where even a short stroll is sure to leave you enthralled.
Perched atop a hill, overlooking the city of Kandy so dramatically, the giant white Buddha at Bahirawakanda Viharaya Buddhist temple is a sight that fuels the sense of mystery and excitement of everyone to the Kandy city. At the charming Buddhist temple, it is not only the majestic Buddha statue that awaits to treat your eyes; climb the steep flight of stairs to the base of the statue where you are afforded mind-blowing views of stunning Kandy.
As the sun goes down and the darkness begins to set in, the hustle and bustle of the city begins to dwindle, and everything takes a much slower and relaxed pace. Nestled in the heart of the city, adjoining the world-renowned Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the scenic Kandy Lake is an oasis of serenity at sundown. Let yourself taste the bustling and activity-full metropolis and top it off with a relaxing late-afternoon stroll on the waterfront promenade that rings the calming body of water.
Those craving a moment of peace and quiet from the wonderful yet rather chaotic atmosphere of the Kandy city, your quick getaway lies just a short but uphill 500 metre away from the city centre at the secluded Udawatta Kele Sanctuary. After a day of trekking and exploring, retreat to a fine Kandy 5 star hotel the likes of Earl's Regency Kandy, and call it a day.
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.
