Have you ever thought about why Kandy is so special in Sri Lanka? This city, surrounded by green hills, is more than beautiful views. It’s filled with history, spiritual sites, and a lively culture.
In our journey through the top 10 things to do in Kandy, you’ll see why it’s a must-visit. You’ll get to visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO site, and the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya with its vast collection of trees. Kandy’s markets also offer unique spices and handicrafts, showcasing the city’s artisan tradition.
Are you excited to discover Kandy’s top spots? Join us as we take you through a memorable exploration of Sri Lankan culture and history.
Kandy: An Overview of the Cultural Capital
Kandy is known as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, with a history that goes back centuries. This city was the last stronghold of the Sinhala kings. It stayed free from colonial rule until the British took over in 1815.
Kandy is surrounded by beautiful green hills and mixes old traditions with modern life. This blend of old and new makes it a top spot for tourists. They come to experience the local culture and see the lively markets and vibrant atmosphere of the city.
The city is famous for its cultural sites, like the Temple of the Tooth. This UNESCO World Heritage site holds Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist relic. Another gem is the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, home to over 4,000 exotic plant species. It was established in 1821.
The weather in Kandy is lovely, with daytime temperatures between 27°C to 30°C (80.6°F to 86°F). At night, it cools down to around 21°C (69.8°F). This great weather makes visiting Kandy’s historic sites and culture even more enjoyable.
Don’t miss out on the local dance shows that showcase five traditional styles. The beautiful Kandy Lake is also a must-see. It offers scenic views and a peek into the city’s history. Kandy’s unique architecture and ceremonies offer a deep cultural experience that attracts many visitors.
UNESCO World Heritage: The Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Tooth, in Kandy, is a major cultural landmark. It’s known locally as Sri Dalada Maligawa. This site is famous for the sacred Tooth Relic, vital to Buddhists all over. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it draws thousands yearly, blending devotion with spiritual exploration.
Significance of the Sacred Relic
The Tooth Relic means more than history; it signifies the depth of Buddhist beliefs. Its home, the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, has become essential for pilgrimages. Here, visitors can cleanse themselves in Kandy Lake, adding to their spiritual experience. The temple also offers a rich museum section including the World Buddhism Museum and the Sri Dalada Museum, deepening the insight into Buddhist culture and practices.
Visiting Tips and Guidelines
To fully appreciate your Temple of the Tooth visit, keep these tips in mind:
- Dress modestly and remove your shoes before you enter.
- Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience during prayers.
- The evening pooja ceremony is a must-see for its spiritual vibrance.
- Join a photography tour to capture the remarkable architecture and culture.
- Spend time at the serene Lotus Pond, ideal for quiet reflection.
Entry fees for the temple range from 1500-2000 Rs, depending on where you’re from. Inside, seeing the golden caskets and exploring the Buddhist literature in the temple library deeply enriches your Kandy visit.
The Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya
The Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya were set up in 1821. They spread over 147 acres beside the Mahaweli River. Initially made for Kandyan royalty, they now welcome visitors worldwide. You’ll see a huge variety of plants, including some amazing Kandy sights. Enjoy the beauty of nature with Botanical garden tours in Sri Lanka. These tours show off unique plants and colorful landscapes.
History and Importance
These gardens have roots in British colonial times. They’re key for botanic study and saving plant life in Sri Lanka. Visitors enjoy seeing more than 4,000 plant types. This includes 300 kinds of orchids in the Orchid House. Don’t miss the Cannonball Tree, planted by King George V in 1901. It adds to the garden’s rich past.
What to See Inside the Gardens
While exploring the Royal Botanical Gardens, be sure not to miss:
- The Great Lawn, ideal for chilling and picnics.
- The Lawn Aviary, to watch different birds in nature.
- The Herb and Spice Garden, with plants like cinnamon and nutmeg.
- The stunning palm avenues, with some palms reaching over 20 meters.
- The peaceful River Bank Meditation area, great for yoga by the Mahaweli River.
The gardens boast an impressive bamboo collection, showcasing Sri Lanka’s ecological variety. Plan your visit from January to April, the dry season, for the best tropical experience.
Top 10 Things to Do in Kandy
Kandy is a city where culture and nature meet. It’s excellent for different kinds of fun. In Kandy, you can dive into cultural events or outdoor adventures. The city gives you a deep look at traditions and stunning scenery.
Exploring Cultural Experiences
Visiting the Temple of the Tooth Relic is a must for cultural lovers. It’s a key place for Sri Lankan Buddhists. Also, catch a local dance show to see Kandyan culture in action. Check out the International Buddhist Museum and Malwatte Maha Vihara for history vibes. Plus, the Kandy Garrison Cemetery offers a peek into the colonial era with its 163 graves.
Outdoor Activities and Scenic Spots
Adventure fans will love hiking in Udawattakelle Sanctuary. This forest is a green haven with loads of wildlife. The Royal Botanical Gardens is great for a chill walk among thousands of plant types. Kandy Lake is a must-see too, perfect for a quiet stroll.
Don’t forget to visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. You can meet many elephants and even ride one. Or, take a guided tour that mixes culture and nature for a full Kandy experience.
Experience Traditional Kandy Cultural Dance
Seeing traditional Kandy cultural dance is key to knowing Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. These shows are more than just dance. They mix history and rituals. Kandy dance shows are full of color, music, and complex moves. This captivates all who watch.
Overview of the Dance Show
You’ll see various traditional Sri Lankan dances at the Kandy shows. They include acrobatics, chants, and deep drum sounds. A standout is the fire-walking act, thrilling audiences. These events offer a glimpse into traditions handed down for generations. Each show is a unique journey into Sri Lanka’s past.
Best Times to Attend
Kandy dance shows happen daily, starting around 5:30 PM at the Kandy Lake Club. Coming early improves your experience. It lets you enjoy the vibe before it begins. In the tourist high season, book your tickets early. This ensures you won’t miss out on this fascinating slice of Sri Lankan culture.
Visit the Historic Three-Temple Loop
The Three-Temple Loop in Kandy gives you a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s rich culture. It covers three ancient temples: Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Embekke Devalaya, and Lankathilaka Temple. These sites showcase 14th-century art and architecture that are breathtaking. They are essential for anyone touring Kandy.
Details of Each Temple
Each temple on the Three-Temple Loop is special and historically important:
- Gadaladeniya Viharaya: This temple stands out with a big dagoba and four smaller ones around it. Even with construction, its spiritual feel is strong.
- Embekke Devalaya: Embekke is well-known for its beautiful wood carvings. It’s a peaceful place where you might see locals in traditional clothes during ceremonies.
- Lankathilaka Temple: Here, a young monk might welcome you. The temple is famous for its striking architecture and green surroundings. It’s great for thinking and taking pictures.
How to Plan Your Visit
Here are some tips to enjoy the Three-Temple Loop:
- Taking a tuk-tuk makes traveling easy. The temples are linked by a seven-kilometer path that’s great for walking.
- Spend enough time at each temple to fully take in their beauty and stories. The walk between Embekke and Lankathilaka offers lovely views.
- Get your trip details sorted early. Kandy is 84 km from the nearest airport. A taxi from Colombo could cost LKR 22,000 and takes roughly 2.5 hours.
Scenic Walks Around Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake is a beautiful spot for a quiet time in nature. Made two centuries ago, it offers calm Kandy Lake views. A walk around the lake is about 2.1 miles. It lets you get close to local plants and animals.
Joining walking tours in Kandy lets you see the famous Kandy clock tower. At the same time, you explore the area’s natural beauty. These tours show off the lake’s beauty. They also help you meet locals who come here to relax or exercise.
- Peaceful strolls along the water’s edge.
- Fulfilling fast-paced runs for the active enthusiast.
- Scenic boat trips to enjoy the surroundings from the water.
These activities make your Kandy sightseeing better. Whether walking, jogging, or boating, Kandy Lake offers peace. It’s a place for both relaxing and adventure in a stunning part of Sri Lanka.
Explore the Local Markets of Kandy
Kandy local markets are a thrilling chance to immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture. They’re bustling with a variety of products, from fresh produce to one-of-a-kind handmade crafts. This is more than shopping; it’s a peek into the locals’ everyday life. You’ll be surrounded by colorful sights, lively sounds, and rich smells.
What to Buy and Try
Look around the busy stalls, and try:
- Local spices: Fresh from nearby areas, they make any dish taste unique.
- Handmade crafts: Find special souvenirs like detailed ornaments and fabrics.
- Fresh fruits: Discover exotic types not seen in usual stores.
Besides these items, enjoy local foods like hoppers and kottu roti for a tasty treat.
Cultural Interactions with Locals
Talking with Kandy’s market vendors is a chance to dive deep into their culture. These vendors love to tell stories about their traditions and give advice on what to buy. Such chats can turn into unforgettable moments, boosting your journey with true connections. Dive into these experiences to learn about the traditions and life in this lovely area.
Admire the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue
The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is a towering figure of peace in Kandy. It rises 88 feet above Bahirawa Kanda hill. Created in the early 1990s, it has become a key landmark in the city. Visitors can enjoy a moment of calm or take beautiful photos with Kandy in the background.
The view from the statue is amazing, especially at sunrise or sunset. The whole city glows with warm colors. You can see hills and lush greenery, perfect for photos.
Seeing the Bahiravokanda Vihara is more than just visiting a place. It’s a deep dive into Kandy’s spiritual side. Admission is about 200 LKR, making it easy for everyone to experience its peace and beauty. Make sure to visit this place in Kandy. It shows the city’s rich culture.
