Discover the cultural heart of Sri Lanka with this Kandy travel guide, featuring 17 must-see attractions. From ancient wonders like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa to the spiritual significance of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the natural beauty of lush gardens and mountain ranges, Kandy offers a diverse tapestry of experiences.
Sigiriya
A day tour to Sigiriya is recommended in the provided text.
Polannaruwa
A day tour to Polannaruwa is recommended in the provided text.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple holding one of Buddha's teeth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most important landmark in Kandy.
Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake is a man-made lake created in 1807, offering a relaxing stroll with views of palm trees, the old royal palace and the Temple of the Tooth.
Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya house over 4,000 plant species, including orchids and palm trees, with features like the giant Javan fig tree and a bamboo cluster.
Peradeniya
Peradeniya is mentioned as the location of the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Kandy Cultural Centre
The Kandy Cultural Centre hosts nightly shows with Kandyan dancing, drumming, and fire performances.
Udawattakele Forest Reserve
Udawattakele Forest Reserve is a dense forest offering hiking trails and the chance to spot monkeys and birds.
Knuckles Mountain Range
The Knuckles Mountain Range, located about 1.5 hours from Kandy, is a cloud forest with waterfalls, streams, and unique plants and animals, ideal for hiking with a guide.
Candi National Museum
The Candi National Museum, located next to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, displays royal clothing, jewelry, weapons, traditional masks, and craftsmanship in pottery and lacquer work.
International Buddhist Museum
The International Buddhist Museum displays how Buddhism shaped art, rituals, and daily life in various countries.
Mahawei River
A suspension bridge crosses the Mahawei River in the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Salon Tea Museum
The Salon Tea Museum, located at the old Hantana Tea Factory, showcases Sri Lanka's tea history with old machinery and information about tea pioneers, offering tea tasting with scenic views.
Hantana Tea Factory
The Hantana Tea Factory is the location of the Salon Tea Museum.
Bahira Vakanda Vihara Buddha statue
The Bahira Vakanda Vihara Buddha statue, built in 1972, is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka, offering wide views of Kandy.
Royal Palace Park
Royal Palace Park, also called Wales Park, is a quiet green space in the middle of Candy, offering clear views of Candy Lake and featuring a Japanese field gun.
Candy War Cemetery
The Candy War Cemetery honors soldiers from the British Empire who died during World War II, featuring white tombstones and a memorial.
Candy Viewpoint
Candy Viewpoint, also known as Arthur's Seat, offers sweeping views of Candy Lake, the city and the surrounding hills.
Arthur's Seat
Arthur's Seat, also known as Candy Viewpoint, provides panoramic views of Kandy Lake, the city, and surrounding hills.
Hulu River Waterfall
Hulu River Waterfall, also known as Hooluganga Falls, drops around 246 ft and is surrounded by green forests and tea plantations.
Hooluganga Town
Hooluganga Town is mentioned as the location of the Hulu River Waterfall.
Hooluganga Falls
Hooluganga Falls, also known as Hulu River Waterfall, drops around 246 ft.
Candy City Center
Candy City Center provides a mix of modern shops, restaurants, and handicraft stores.
Candy Muslim Hotel
At Candy Muslim Hotel, you can enjoy spicy curries and kotu roti.
Cafe 1886
Cafe 1886 adds a fine dining touch to local dishes.
Hela Bojun Hala
Hela Bojun Hala offers fresh homestyle meals cooked by local women every morning.
Secret Alley Cafe
Secret Alley Cafe offers smoothie bowls, avocado toast, pancakes, and coffee.