Landmark

British Garrison Cemetery

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The British Garrison Cemetery is a small, atmospheric burial ground dating back to the early 1800s, located near the Temple of the Tooth. It contains the graves of British military personnel, civil servants, and their families who served in Kandy during the colonial period. The cemetery is enclosed by stone walls and shaded by mature trees, creating a somber yet peaceful setting. Visitors can read the weathered headstones, which offer glimpses into the lives and deaths of those who lived in Ceylon under British rule. It remains a well-maintained historical site and a poignant reminder of Sri Lanka's colonial past.

Don't miss

  • Read the epitaphs on the 19th-century headstones, many detailing the lives and causes of death of British colonists.
  • Notice the variety of grave markers, from simple crosses to more elaborate monuments, reflecting different ranks and statuses.
  • Enjoy the quiet, shaded atmosphere, a stark contrast to the nearby busy streets of Kandy.

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Ways to visit British Garrison Cemetery

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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