Kandy

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist temple and houses the revered Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. Located within the historic royal precinct of the Sacred City of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple is an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from around the world and the spiritual heart of historic Kandy.

The Royal Palace of Kandy was the residence of the last kings of the Kingdom of Kandy. The palace complex, located beside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, includes historic buildings and museums that provide an insight into the island’s royal heritage and Kandyan history.

Located in the historic Palle Vahala, part of the former Royal Palace complex, the National Museum of Kandy showcases a fascinating collection of artefacts, artworks, weapons, traditional objects, and other exhibits reflecting the history, culture, and traditions of the Kandyan Kingdom. It offers visitors an insight into Sri Lanka’s royal heritage and the rich cultural traditions of the Kandyan era.

Kandy Esala Perahera is one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular cultural and religious festivals. Held annually in honour of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the grand procession features traditionally decorated elephants, Kandyan dancers, drummers, fire performers, and other forms of traditional pageantry. It attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors from around the world.

Kandy Lake is a picturesque man-made lake in the heart of the city, created by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1807. A walk around the lake provides beautiful views of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, surrounding hills, and the historic city.

The Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue is a magnificent white Buddha statue overlooking Kandy from a hilltop. The temple offers panoramic views of the city, Kandy Lake, and surrounding mountains, together with a peaceful spiritual atmosphere.

Udawattakele Forest Reserve is a protected forest sanctuary located behind the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Its forest trails, rich birdlife, towering trees, and historic meditation caves make it an excellent place for nature walks, birdwatching, and exploring Kandy’s natural surroundings.

Kandy View Point is one of the best-known viewpoints overlooking Kandy City, Kandy Lake, and the surrounding hills. It is a popular stop for panoramic views, photography, and enjoying the changing colours of the city at sunrise and sunset.

Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Vihara is a historic rock cave temple renowned for its beautifully preserved Kandyan-era murals. The temple’s paintings depict important Buddhist stories and traditions and provide an outstanding example of Sri Lanka’s traditional temple art.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya is Sri Lanka’s most famous botanical garden, featuring extensive collections of tropical plants, orchids, palms, flowering plants, and beautifully landscaped grounds. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, families, and those seeking a peaceful environment.

Sita Kotuwa at Gurulupotha is traditionally associated with the Ramayana. According to local tradition, the site is believed to be one of the places where Sita was held captive by King Ravana. Surrounded by forests and mountain landscapes, it combines Ramayana tradition with the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s central hill country.