Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, captures your imagination with its rich history and stunning landscapes. This city is home to the revered Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses a sacred relic of the Buddha. Visiting this temple offers a glimpse into the island's spiritual heritage, especially during the vibrant Esala Perahera festival, where colorful processions bring the streets to life. Wander around Kandy Lake, a serene spot perfect for a leisurely stroll or a moment of reflection. The surrounding hills provide a picturesque backdrop, making it an ideal setting for photography enthusiasts. The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, just a short drive away, showcase an impressive collection of flora, including the famous orchid house. Food lovers will appreciate Kandy's culinary scene, where you can savor local delicacies like Kottu Roti and traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry. Don’t miss the chance to sip on a cup of Ceylon tea, renowned for its quality and flavor. With its blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and culture, Kandy is a city that invites exploration and leaves a lasting impression. Did you know that Kandy was the last capital of the Sinhalese kings, making it a significant historical
Kandy, Sri Lanka
Top things to do in Kandy
15 attractions, landmarks and museums worth your time, ranked by traveler reviews.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya
A world-renowned botanical garden with over 4,000 plant species, famous for its orchid house, giant bamboo, and avenue of royal palms.
Kandy Lake
A scenic artificial lake built in 1807 by the last king of Kandy, offering a peaceful walkway with views of the Temple of the Tooth.
Udawattakele Forest Reserve
A historic forest sanctuary on a hill above Kandy, popular for birdwatching and hiking trails.
National Museum of Kandy
Housed in the former Queen's Palace, this museum displays artifacts from the Kandyan Kingdom.
International Buddhist Museum
The only museum of its kind, showcasing the history and spread of Buddhism worldwide.
Temple of the Tooth Museum
Discover relics and artifacts linked to the sacred tooth relic and the Kandyan kingdom in this museum within the Temple of the Tooth complex.
Ceylon Tea Museum
Housed in a former tea factory, this museum showcases the history of Ceylon tea production and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Hanthana Mountain Range
A popular hiking destination with trails offering stunning views of Kandy and the surrounding countryside.
Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Vihara
An 18th-century Buddhist cave temple in Kandy, renowned for its well-preserved Kandyan-era murals depicting Jataka tales and daily life.
Gadaladeniya Vihara
A 14th-century Buddhist temple built on a rock, showcasing South Indian architectural styles and ancient frescoes.
Arthur's Seat, Kandy
A scenic viewpoint in Kandy offering panoramic vistas of the city, Kandy Lake, and the surrounding hills.
Wales Park
A tranquil green space near the Temple of the Tooth, offering scenic views of Kandy Lake and a respite from the city bustle.
British Garrison Cemetery
A historic 19th-century colonial cemetery with well-preserved graves of British soldiers and officials, set in a quiet, leafy corner of Kandy.
Highway museum complex, Kiribathkumbura
A museum complex dedicated to Sri Lanka's road development history, featuring vintage vehicles, road-building equipment, and interactive exhibits.
Temple of the Tooth
Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist shrine, housing a relic of the Buddha's tooth in a golden casket within a UNESCO-listed temple complex.
Tickets & tours
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