Kandy Sri Lanka: Cultural Highlights and Day Tours

Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, is a city steeped in history, spirituality, and culture. Surrounded by mountains and centered around a scenic lake, it's an essential stop on any Sri Lanka itinerary.

Top Cultural Highlights

1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

The holiest Buddhist site in Sri Lanka, housing a tooth relic of the Lord Buddha. Visit during a puja (ceremony) to hear the mesmerizing drumming and see the devotees in prayer.

2. Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

Located just outside the city, these massive gardens date back to the 14th century. The orchid house, the avenue of royal palms, and the giant Javan fig tree are highlights.

3. Kandyan Cultural Dance Show

Every evening, witness a spectacle of traditional drumming, fire walking, and acrobatic dancing. It's a vibrant display of the island's folklore.

4. Kandy Lake

Built by the last King of Kandy, a sunset walk around the lake offer peace amidst the bustling city.

Best Day Tours from Kandy

• Sigiriya & Dambulla: A long but doable day trip to the cultural triangle.
• Knuckles Mountain Range: For hiking enthusiasts, this UNESCO site offers rugged trails and waterfalls.
• Ambuluwawa Tower: The famous spiral tower offering 360-degree views (and a bit of vertigo!).

Getting Around Kandy

Traffic in Kandy can be heavy. A private car is the most comfortable way to navigate the hills and visit surrounding attractions like the Botanical Gardens and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.