Joanna James
Kandy, the gateway to the central highlands, offers a unique atmosphere that sets it apart. Kandy is blessed with numerous picturesque spots that are perfect for capturing stunning Instagram photos. Come, discover all the picturesque sights charming Kandy has to offer.
The crown jewel of Kandy and the city’s star tourist attraction, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is one of Kandy’s unmissable sights that draws tourists in droves to the charming hill country. Greeted by the serenity of Kandy Lake and majestically white pillars and high ceilings, the striking Buddhist temple will have you enthralled right away. The golden-roofed temple complex is the most revered and also the most stunning of the religious site, where the most sacred Buddhist relic of Lanka — a tooth of Lord Buddha himself — is housed in a diminishing golden casket.
Just outside the city of Kandy, in the suburb of Peradeniya, the Royal Botanic Gardens make a world of serenity away from the hustle and bustle. At roughly 150 acres, it is the largest of the 5 botanical gardens of the island nation. The sprawling nature haven is home to over 4,000 varieties of plants and flowers, affording all the nature and beauty for the perfect shots for your ‘gram. Let both your feet and mind take a wander in the verdant nature, immersed in boundless serenity.
Perched atop a hill so dramatically, standing guard over the city of Kandy is the big white Buddha at Bahiravokanda Vihara Temple — one of the most picturesque places in the hill country city. While it is the highlight of the temple, the majestic Buddha statue, that draws the crowds to the striking temple, the temple also makes for an incredible vantage point. At the end of the long flight of stairs and the base of the popular Buddha statue, the panoramic views of Kandy are absolutely breathtaking.
While the general ambience of Kandy is considered tranquil, the Kandy city itself is quite chaotic. For those looking for a moment of peace and quiet to escape the hustle and bustle, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is your quick getaway to serenity. Nestled behind the aforementioned Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the sprawling forest reserve is only a 5-minute walk from the city centre.
The truly adventurous can set out on a drive outside Kandy to embark on an exciting adventure in the secluded Knuckles Mountain Range. Instagrammable places are ample as are the nature and adventure in this sprawling wilderness. After a day well spent, retreat to one of the finest Kandy bungalows the likes of Hanthana Boutique Villa by Amaya, 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.
