Joanna James
Nestled high away in the charming central highlands, Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. The hill city, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and artistic legacy, offering travellers a memorable cultural exploration like no other.
The crown jewel of Sri Lanka’s hill country, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the one attraction that single-handedly puts Kandy on the map for almost all of its travellers. No trip to Kandy, cultural or otherwise, would be complete without a visit to this sacred site. It is best known for housing what is arguably the most precious relic revered by Buddhists all across the world.
Set right in the heart of Kandy City and adjacent to the aforementioned Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the colossal Kandy Lake. Given the lake’s central location in the bustling city, it may not be the most peaceful cultural site, but it sure is one of the most scenic sights Kandy has to offer. The emerald waters, along with the traditional cloud wall that rings the lake, set the perfect backdrop for some Insta-worthy snaps.
Kandy basks in the glory of being home to the largest of the 5 botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. Just outside the city of Kandy in the suburb of Peradeniya, the Royal Botanic Gardens extends for an expansive 147 acres and is home to over 4,000 species of plants. From towering palm avenues to colourful orchids and giant bamboo groves, the sprawling garden is a haven for nature.
Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya, better known as the Big Buddha Temple, is another popular Buddhist temple in Kandy. The temple is best known for its giant white Buddha, perched dramatically atop a hill, overlooking the entire city of Kandy. Take in breathtaking views at the base of the Buddha statue and retreat to a fine Kandy luxury hotel, including the likes of Kings Pavilion Kandy.
An unmissable destination for all the ardent history buffs to the city, the National Museum of Kandy is one of the most visited cultural sites in the hill station. It is set next to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in part of the former Royal Palace of Kandy and dates back to 1942. The primary exhibits are housed in the Palle Vahala building, which was the former home of the King's harem. A secondary exhibition is located in the main palace building.
The hill country’s most precious, the Temple of the Tooth may steal the spotlight when it comes to temples in Kandy, but a short drive outside the city are 2 striking Buddhist temples that are also worth a visit: Gadaladeniya and Lankatilaka temples. Surrounded by verdant rice fields and forested hills, they make for a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
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.
