Sri Lanka's last royal capital, Kandy is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Nestled among misty hills surrounding a serene lake, this cultural heart of Sri Lanka hosts the spectacular Esala Perahera festival annually.
Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, is a city where ancient traditions thrive amidst natural beauty. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) houses Buddhism's most precious relic and is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. The temple's golden roof gleams above the royal palace complex, a testament to centuries of devotion.
The city center wraps around the picturesque Kandy Lake, created in 1807 by the last Sinhalese king. Tree-lined walkways invite evening strolls with mountain vistas reflected in calm waters. Traditional Kandyan dancers perform nightly, showcasing centuries-old rituals with elaborate costumes, fire walking, and rhythmic drumming.
The Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, just outside Kandy, showcase over 4,000 plant species across 147 acres. Giant bamboo groves, orchid collections, and the famous avenue of royal palms create a botanical paradise. The gardens have hosted royalty from around the world and remain one of Asia's finest.
Beyond the city, hill country tea plantations carpet the surrounding mountains. Traditional batik workshops, gem museums, and spice gardens offer insights into local crafts. The cooler climate at 500 meters elevation provides respite from coastal heat, making Kandy an essential stop on any Sri Lankan journey.
From sacred temples to royal gardens, discover the cultural treasures and natural beauty of Sri Lanka's hill capital.
Visit the sacred Sri Dalada Maligawa housing Buddha's tooth relic. Witness daily puja ceremonies, explore the royal palace complex, and learn about centuries of Buddhist heritage in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Explore 147 acres of botanical paradise in Peradeniya. Walk through orchid houses, giant bamboo groves, and the famous palm avenue. Discover over 4,000 plant species in one of Asia's finest gardens.
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Experience authentic Kandyan cultural performances with elaborate costumes, fire walking, and rhythmic drumming. Watch centuries-old dance traditions that tell stories of Sri Lankan mythology and history.
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Comprehensive tour including the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake walk, tea plantation visit, gem museum, and spice gardens. Discover why Kandy is the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.
BOOK NOWKandy stole my heart! The Temple of the Tooth was awe-inspiring, and witnessing the evening puja ceremony was deeply moving. The botanical gardens were spectacular, and the cultural dance show was unlike anything I've ever seen. A must-visit destination in Sri Lanka!
