Set against a backdrop of misty hills and emerald greenery, Kandy stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most captivating cities. Celebrated for its cultural significance and charming landscapes, it offers a rich variety of experiences that appeal to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and casual explorers alike.
The Kandy Lake
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Main_Page
Kandy is centred around the picturesque Kandy Lake, which stretches southeast from the southern edge of the city’s main area. A walking path encircles the lake, offering a peaceful, traffic-free route to explore on foot. Along the way, there are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the view, while the lake itself is home to ducks and fish.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Main_Page
Just a short drive from Kandy, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are a lush retreat filled with vibrant plant life and serene walking paths. Spanning over 60 hectares, the gardens are home to a remarkable variety of flowers, towering palm trees, and sprawling orchids. Strolling through the grounds offers a peaceful escape from the city, and makes for a great excursion from any luxury hotel in Kandy.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Main_Page
Among Kandy’s many attractions, this is by far the most renowned and visited. Constructed in the late 15th century, the temple was built to house Sri Lanka’s most sacred relic—a tooth of the Buddha, brought from India in the 4th century. It’s revered deeply by the country’s Buddhist community.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Main_Page
A top attraction in Sri Lanka, the Elephant Orphanage is home to around 80 elephants wandering freely through the park. A standout experience is the daily elephant bathing, which takes place around 10 a.m., when most of the elephants make their way to the river for a refreshing wash.
