Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last royal capital, is often celebrated for its cultural heritage and natural beauty. Yet hidden within its busy streets and lakeside corners lies a fascinating colonial history waiting to be explored. Explore stories shaped by the passage of time, with a guide to the grand architectural reminders and landscapes of Kandy.
Royal Botanic Gardens
When it comes to the best things to do in Kandy, a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens will always be at the top of the list. Originally established for Kandyan royalty and later expanded under British rule, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya showcase centuries of botanical research and colonial landscaping.
Suriyakantha Art & Cultural Centre
Located within a 300-year-old bungalow, this heritage home turned museum is a showcase of Kandy’s rich, artistic culture. Curated by a former professor, the collection features visual art, preserved manuscripts, books, and other documentation. While reservations are normally needed for a visit, hotels like Kings Pavilion Kandy offer excursions to the gallery for their guests.
St. Paul’s Church
Just around the corner from the Temple of the Tooth, St. Paul’s Church is one of Kandy’s most significant Anglican landmarks. Built by the British in the 19th century, its stone walls, stained glass, and pipe organ retain a sense of old-world charm.
Old Kandy Post Office
A striking Tudor-style building, the Old Kandy Post Office is one of the city’s most iconic colonial relics. While still active, its timber detailing and red-brick structure tell stories of communication, administration, and daily life during British Ceylon.
