Brad Smith
The entrancing city of Kandy is always a captivating place to visit. There is much to do in this historically and culturally significant city with its many attractions, such as those listed below.
The Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Tooth, is unquestionably one of Kandy's foremost attractions. Housing a greatly venerated tooth relic of Gautama Buddha, this unmistakable edifice was once a royal citadel of the Kandyan monarchs. At this magnificent palace you can admire the traditional architectural motifs of Sri Lanka, as well as the splendid golden receptacle which houses the actual tooth relic. Another attraction here is the newly constructed worship chamber where visitors can admire the appealing paintings that depict the history of the relic.
This fascinating museum is located at the rear of the Dalada Maligawa and displays an extensive collection of artefacts, illustrations and other details relating to other countries (primarily nations with Buddhist historical significance) and their relationships with Sri Lanka. The visitor will observe that each nation, including India, Pakistan, Nepal, China and Japan has been allocated a separate chamber. This museum is an attractive place to stroll about as you view the engrossing items on display. You will also have the opportunity to view the stuffed body of an elephant, Raja, who performed the duty of carrying the casket in the famous Esala procession (known as the 'perahera').
It is always a pleasant experience to stroll around the picturesque Kandy Lake. This attractive body of water was constructed by a local monarch to add to the beauty of the city. The lake contains a host of different kinds of fish, which visitors often feed by throwing popcorn and chick peas. In keeping with the Buddhist culture of the city, fishing in the lake is prohibited. You will also observe many kinds of birds and other animals in the environs of the lake.
As you walk along the boundary of the lake, the visitor will encounter a modestly sized pier with a traditional roof. From this location visitors will have the opportunity to take a boat ride to the opposite end of the scenic lake, after which the boat will return you to this location. This boat excursion is sure to be an enjoyable trip that will appeal to almost any visitor. As you enjoy these attractions stay at Hotel Hilltop, one of the best hotels in Kandy. This attractive hotel offers quality accommodations and gracious hospitality in a picturesque setting.
The splendid Peradeniya Botanic Gardens is sure to capture the interest of visitors who appreciate the wonders of nature. At this extensive 59 hectare garden you will find more than 300 different varieties of trees and plants including many diverse varieties of orchids, palms and various spices. This beautifully designed and meticulously maintained botanic garden is a delightful place to stroll through whilst admiring the many wonders of Mother Nature.
This attractive forest sanctuary will definitely attract the attention of the nature lover. In earlier times this stretch of forest was a pleasure ground of the royalty of Kandy, and is now administered by the government of the country. Within this reserve you will be able to observe many kinds of plants and trees, as well as some forest creatures that have made the area their home. Visitors can also drop in at the office located within the reserve, where they can learn about the various kinds of flora and fauna to be found in the sanctuary.
The Commonwealth War Cemetery is a popular attraction that will capture the imagination of the history lover. This well-known burial ground houses the remains of soldiers from various parts of the British Empire who were killed during the World Wars. This beautifully laid out and well-maintained cemetery is always a pleasant place to stroll around, and is considered to be one of the most handsomely laid out and picturesque of the world's war cemeteries.
