Joanna James
Surrounded by mountains and located in the central region of Sri Lanka, Kandy is one of the most historically renowned kingdoms in the country. This large city is filled with natural beauty and several historical and religious sites that speak to its former glory as the kingdom capital of the Singhalese monarchy before the arrival of colonial powers. Today, the city is widely visited by local pilgrims, inquisitive locals and tourists looking to get a glimpse of its glorious past can still be seen. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Kandy for those looking to explore the best of this beautiful city.
Locally known as the Sri Dalada Maligawa, this is one of the most sacred places of worship for Buddhists around the world as it houses the sacred tooth of the Buddha within a golden chamber. The grand temple is located within the royal palace complex of the country’s former Kandyan Kingdom, making it one of the top places to visit in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The temple grounds alone span several hectares and feature several other historic buildings and sites. Naturally, the site is often filled with pilgrims who arrive to participate in various pujas and prayer services that add an element of tranquillity to the temple and its premises.
This bio-reserve sanctuary is located just beside the Sri Dalada Maligawa and is definitely worth a visit after you’ve explored the temple. Spanning a total of 257 acres, this protected reserve features three Buddhist monasteries that give it an added spiritual ambience that blends seamlessly with its natural aura. The sanctuary also features approximately 80 bird species, various animals including barking deer and toque macaques, as well as several plant varieties like orchids along with indigenous trees.
This is one of the most visited gardens in the country because of its stunning natural beauty and well-maintained landscapes. The garden which extends across 147 acres features over 4000 plant species including medicinal plants, spices, orchids and palm trees. It also includes trees planted by renowned international figures such as Queen Elizabeth II, Yuri Gagarin and Marshal Tito. The garden is additionally home to various bird and animal species, including magpies, monkeys, turtles and more.
If you’re looking to dive deep into Sri Lanka’s history and culture while on your tour of Kandy with Walkers Tours, make sure to visit the National Museum. Located just beside the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the museum houses around 5000 artefacts, manuscripts, and statues of well-known personalities, making it a true time capsule that takes you back through Sri Lanka’s history. The building also features several architectural elements from the Kandyan era that carry more than a trace of the city’s former glory.
Another historical site located near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is this palace which was the last royal structure constructed in the city before the arrival of British colonisers. The palace, which features architectural features from the Kandyan kingdom contains various pieces of information and items that speak to the royal life of the locals before colonial invasion. Its inner walls are covered with intricate terra cotta and stucco work, while the Royal Audience Hall features designed wooden pillars and a Kandyan-style rooftop.
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.
