Best Sightseeing Attractions of Kandy: The Cultural Heart of Sri Lanka

Nestled in the lush green hills of Sri Lanka, Kandy is a beautiful city that boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage. It’s no wonder that Kandy has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its beautiful temples, monuments, and natural wonders. In this post, we take a closer look at the best sightseeing attractions in Kandy.

Temple of the Tooth Relic

The Temple of the Tooth Relic, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is the most popular tourist attraction in Kandy, and for good reason. It’s considered the most important Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka as it houses the sacred tooth relic of the Lord Buddha. As a result, it’s a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.Apart from the sacred tooth relic, the temple complex boasts beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and murals that showcase Sri Lankan art and culture. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of Kandyan dance performances in the evenings. If you happen to visit Kandy, the Temple of the Tooth Relic should be on the top of your list.

Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

If you’re a nature lover, then the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens should be on your itinerary. These stunning gardens were established back in 1821 and are spread over 147 acres with over 4000 species of flora. From rare orchids to towering trees, the botanical gardens boast a diverse range of plant species.Apart from admiring the diverse plant life, the garden’s pathways will take you through an incredible collection of trees, medicinal plants, and spices. There are also several bird species, including kingfishers and parakeets, that can be spotted here. Overall, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are a perfect blend of history, beauty, and education.

Cultural Dance Show

Kandy is famous for its traditional Kandyan dance performances, which is an integral part of Sri Lankan culture. The dance is known for its intricate costume, music, and movements. Attending a cultural dance show in Kandy is an excellent way to experience its vibrant cultural heritage.There are several venues in Kandy that offer Kandyan dance performances along with a traditional drum performance. Book a ticket and witness expert dancers gracefully performing complex routines dressed in colorful costumes.

Kandy Lake

The Kandy Lake, locally known as Kiri Muhuda, is a stunning artificial lake situated in the heart of the city. The lake is believed to have been built in the early nineteenth century by the King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe as a recreational water body.The lake is surrounded by lush green trees, providing a calm and serene setting. Visitors can sit beside the lake and soak up the peaceful ambiance or take a stroll around the lake’s perimeter. The lake is stunning to behold during sunset.

Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is an iconic landmark that can be spotted from most parts of Kandy. The statue stands tall at 88 feet, depicting the Lord Buddha in the earth-touching position.To get to the statue, visitors have to climb a steep hill, which offers a breathtaking view of Kandy’s skyline. From the top, visitors can take in the panoramic view of the cityscape while marveling at the Buddha statue’s grandeur.In conclusion, Kandy boasts an eclectic mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the Temple of the Tooth Relic to the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue, there’s something for everyone. Exploring these attractions is a great way to experience the best of Kandy and Sri Lankan culture.

Insider’s Guide to Kandy: The Cultural Heart of Sri Lanka

Kandy is a city in central Sri Lanka, surrounded by lush green hills and known as the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. It is famous for its cultural heritage, ancient temples, and the Temple of Tooth Relic. Kandy is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its significance in Sri Lankan history, and it’s a must-visit destination for tourists. In this insider’s guide, we will explore the best sightseeing attractions of Kandy. Let’s get started!

Local Attractions

1. Temple of the Tooth – This sacred temple is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka. It houses the tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is considered the holiest place for Buddhists in the country. Visitors can witness the grand daily pooja ceremony, which takes place three times a day.

2. Royal Botanical Gardens – The Royal Botanical Gardens is a large park located in Peradeniya, a suburb of Kandy. The garden is home to more than 4,000 species of plants, including orchids and giant bamboos. Visitors can also see the famous cannonball tree and the avenue of royal palms.

3. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue – This striking statue of Buddha is located on top of a hill, providing breathtaking views of the city of Kandy. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the hill and see the giant Buddha statue up close.

Dining Spots

1. Empire Cafe – This vintage-style cafe is located in the heart of Kandy and offers a variety of local and Western cuisine. The cafe is famous for its coffee, cakes, and sandwiches.

2. Balaji Dosai – Balaji Dosai is a South Indian restaurant in Kandy, famous for serving delicious and affordable dosas. The restaurant has an outdoor seating area and is open 24 hours a day.

3. Slightly Chilled Lounge – This laid-back lounge is located near the Temple of the Tooth. It offers an extensive menu of drinks, including fresh juices and cocktails. The lounge is famous for its relaxed ambiance and stunning views of the city.

Cultural Experiences

1. Kandyan Dance Performance – The Kandyan dance is a traditional dance form of Sri Lanka, which originated in Kandy. Visitors can watch a live performance by skilled dancers in traditional costumes.

2. Udawattekele Sanctuary – Udawattekele Sanctuary is a protected forest area on a hill overlooking the city of Kandy. Visitors can take a walk through the lush forest, which is home to many bird species and monkeys.

3. Kandy City Tour – A guided city tour is an excellent way to explore Kandy’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can visit the Temple of the Tooth, Royal Botanical Gardens, Kandy Lake, and the Kandy Museum, among other sites.

Local History

1. National Museum of Kandy – The National Museum of Kandy is located next to the Temple of the Tooth and houses a vast collection of artifacts reflecting Sri Lanka’s rich history, including weapons, pottery, and jewelry.

2. Embekke Devalaya – Embekke Devalaya is an ancient temple located in a village outside of Kandy. It is famous for its intricate wood carvings, which are considered the finest in Sri Lanka.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

1. Knuckles Mountain Range – The Knuckles Mountain Range is a lesser-known attraction near Kandy, ideal for trekking and camping. It offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.

2. Hantana Tea Museum – Hantana Tea Museum is a small museum located in a tea estate near Kandy. Visitors can learn about the history of tea production in Sri Lanka and see machinery used to process tea.

Conclusion

Kandy is a city that offers a rich cultural experience, with attractions that cater to a wide variety of interests. From ancient temples to lush green forests, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to visit Kandy on your next Sri Lankan adventure!