Kandy

Kandy, a city in Sri Lanka's central highlands, was the final capital of the ancient Sinhalese kings. It's home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which contains a tooth believed to have belonged to the Buddha. In Kandy, you can stroll around the lake, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, or watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance. In 1988, UNESCO added Kandy to its list of World Heritage sites due to its historical and cultural significance.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, known locally as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is Kandy's main religious site. This Buddhist temple houses a tooth believed to have belonged to the Buddha himself. The relic plays a crucial role in local politics, as it's believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. You can visit the temple to see its detailed carvings and golden roof, and witness the daily rituals. Remember to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.

Exploring Kandy Lake

The last king of Sri Lanka created Kandy Lake in 1807, and it now sits at the heart of the city. A walkway encircles the lake, allowing you to take in views of the surrounding hills and the Temple of the Tooth. Early morning or late afternoon are good times for a stroll, when the temperature is cooler and the light is soft. Keep an eye out for monitor lizards sunning themselves on the banks and various bird species.

Royal Botanical Gardens

Located in nearby Peradeniya, the Royal Botanical Gardens cover 60 hectares and house over 4000 species of plants. You can spend hours wandering through different sections, including a spice garden, an orchid house, and a giant Javan fig tree. The gardens are about 5.5 km from the city center. You can reach them by tuk-tuk or local bus.

Traditional Kandyan Dance

Attending a Kandyan dance performance introduces you to local cultural traditions. These performances typically include various dance styles accompanied by drums. Shows are held daily in several venues around the city, often in the early evening. Ask your accommodation for recommendations on well-established venues.

Getting to Kandy

Kandy has good transport links to other parts of Sri Lanka. From Colombo, you can take a train, which offers views of the hill country. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Alternatively, buses run frequently from Colombo and other major cities. If you're coming from the Cultural Triangle area (Sigiriya, Dambulla), private taxis or shared vans are common options.

Best Time to Visit

The weather in Kandy is typically drier from January to April, with moderate temperatures. July and August can be busy due to the Esala Perahera festival, a 10-day celebration featuring elaborate processions. If you want to experience this significant event, book accommodations well in advance.

Local Cuisine

Kandy has a range of dining options, from street food to high-end restaurants. Try local specialties like rice and curry, hoppers (a type of pancake), and kottu (chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables and meat). For a quick snack, look for vendors selling fresh fruit or wade (deep-fried lentil patties). Many restaurants around Kandy Lake offer views while you dine.