Kandy is a stunning city located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Surrounded by mist-covered mountains and lush woods, this city perfectly captures the essence of Sri Lankan culture, history, and spirituality. For those looking for a comprehensive Kandy travel guide, I want you to know that Kandy is more than a city; it’s a collection of experiences. Kandy caters to all types of travelers, with gorgeous temples, verdant gardens, and breathtaking views. Let’s have a look at the must-see attractions and things to do in Kandy that have attracted visitors from all over the world.
Discover the Top 10 Things to Do in Kandy
Visit the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy
The Sri Dalada Maligawa Kandy, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, holds immense religious significance. Yes, it is because this place is the most sacred in Sri Lanka. Buddhists from all over the world come on pilgrimage to this holy place because the sacred left tooth of Buddha is enshrined there. This is not just a temple; It is a magnificent royal palace steeped in history, architecture, and cultural significance.
From the moment you enter the temple, you will be mesmerized by the intricate carvings, the golden roof, and the calm, peaceful atmosphere. It is an experience that is difficult to put into words. Here, traditional rituals, including drumming and singing, take place approximately three times a day. If you visit the temple at that time, you, as a visitor, can observe these ceremonies, giving you a unique cultural immersion. If you are visiting Kandy, remember to visit this sacred place, which is one of the must-do things in Kandy.
Suggested Read – Things To Do In Sri Lanka
Experience the Picturesque Kandy to Nuwara Eliya Train Ride
One of the world’s most scenic train journeys, the one that runs from Kandy railway to Nuwara Eliya. You will see breathtaking sights as the train slowly moves past mist-covered mountains, luscious tea plantations, and stunning waterfalls. The unique aspect of this trip is that the trip is equally as delightful as the final destination. You may get a close-up look at local foods by purchasing fruits, snacks, and other delights from the merchants aboard the train. It’s wise to get your tickets in advance if you want to sit at the window and take in the view.
Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya near Kandy
The Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya is a tranquil haven of nature only a short drive from Kandy City. More than 4,000 plant varieties, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees, may be found in these gardens, which cover more than 147 acres. For those who are botany enthusiasts and want to unwind in verdant surroundings, the garden would be a haven.
The Orchid House, which has more than 300 types of exquisite orchids, is one of its attractions. Don’t miss Royal Palm Avenue, which is ideal for leisurely walks, and the enormous Javan fig tree. A stunning suspension bridge that spans the Mahaweli River is another highlight of the gardens that provides picturesque vistas and fantastic photo ops. It is a must-thing to do in Kandy since a visit here is both instructive and revitalizing.
See the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue & Kandy City Views
The Bhairavakanda Buddha statue is an iconic landmark visible to Kandy city, which is located on a hill. This 88-foot-high Buddha statue gives us a very beautiful view of the city and the surrounding environment. When you reach the top of the mountain, you will see the calmness of the Buddha statue and the view in front of you. If you go in the evening, you can watch the beautiful sunset. Also, this is the best place to take a photo of Kandy city.
Witness Traditional Kandyan Dance Performances: A Cultural Must-See
One of the must-do things in Kandy is to see a captivating Kandyan dance show. These cultural performances showcase a captivating blend of music, dance, and vibrant costumes, giving you a real taste of the region’s artistic talents and deeply rooted traditions. The dances, often accompanied by rhythmic drumming and chanting, create a truly electrifying and immersive atmosphere. Kandyan dance is particularly known for its energetic dance movements and highly intricate footwork
Many of the dances tell stories from ancient folklore, myths, and legends, adding another layer of depth to the experience. These performances are typically held at various cultural centers around Kandy, so it’s usually easy to find a show. It’s a perfect way to spend an evening in Kandy, offering a unique and memorable cultural experience.
Attend the Grand Kandy Esala Perahera Festival (July/August)
The Kandy Perahera is one of the most spectacular festivals and grand cultural events in Sri Lanka. Usually held for ten days in July and August, this festival is a wonderful scene where culture, religion, and history come together. Dancers, drummers, beautifully decorated elephants, and torchlight processions are truly a feast for the eyes. The most special thing of this festival is carrying the tooth in a golden casket. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists come to Kandy to witness that scene.
Kandy itself is like a different world these days. Traditional music can be heard along the roads, and the beauty of elephants can be seen. This event is a good opportunity to get a better understanding of the culture and religion of Sri Lanka. If you are thinking of going to Kandy, go during the Esala Perahera festival. That experience will never be forgotten. But remember one thing. Because many people come to Kandy at that time, it is important to book hotels and accommodation in advance.
Hike Pekoe Trail Stage 1: Scenic Tea Estates near Kandy
Pekoe Trail hiking, Stage 1, offers some of the best trekking experiences in the Kandy region. This is only the first part of the long Peco Trail, but it can be a small part of the whole trip experience. This section passes through the lush tea plantations and dense rainforests of Kandy. As the road is well-marked, it is easy for those who are new to mountain climbing. That said, this is not a difficult hike, but the best trail for a perfect hiking day. The specialty of this section is that you meet people in the villages while walking along the trail. You can learn a lot about their lives and the culture of that area.
Immerse Yourself in Kandy’s Vibrant Markets: A Local Experience
If you want to feel the bustling atmosphere of Kandy City, then you must go to Kandy market for some local shopping. It’s not just a market but a place where you can see the life and culture of the Kandian people. You can buy many things like various fresh vegetables, tropical fruits, traditional clothes, and local handicrafts here. If you like spices, you can buy pure Sri Lankan spices here for a cheap price. And remember, you can bargain the price here. That’s one of the fun things about this market.
Find Peace at the Nelligala International Buddhist Center near Kandy
Nelligala International Buddhist Center, or Nelligala Temple in Kandy, is a very serene and peaceful place located on a hilltop. As it is located on top of a mountain, it is very quiet, a place to meditate and find peace of mind. The white pagoda in the temple is very beautiful. Also, Buddha statues and other creations are very artistic.
Conclusion
Kandy is a wonderful city where culture, history, and nature meet together. From the sanctity of the Tooth Relic Temple to enjoying the beauty of the mountains and learning about Sri Lankan culture, this city is the best place for Kandy sightseeing. Also, it is fortunate to be able to see a festival like Esala Perahera. Among the things to do in Kandy, These are just a few of the things we talked about. In this way, the trip to Kandy will add so many unforgettable experiences to your life
