Kandy
Historical and Cultural Significance
- Royal Capital: Kandy was the last capital of the ancient kings’ era in Sri Lanka before British colonial rule. It served as the capital of the Kingdom of Kandy from the 15th century until 1815.
- Sacred City: Kandy is home to the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. This relic is of immense religious importance to Buddhists worldwide.
Key Attractions
- Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa): This revered temple is the focal point of Kandy and attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. The tooth relic is housed in a golden casket, and the temple’s architecture is a blend of Kandyan, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences.
- Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake): Created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, this artificial lake sits at the heart of Kandy. It offers a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and boating.
- Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya: Located just outside Kandy, these gardens are renowned for their extensive collection of orchids, tropical plants, and towering palm avenues. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and those looking to relax in a beautiful setting.
- Kandy Esala Perahera: This annual festival, held in July or August, is one of the most grandiose cultural events in Sri Lanka. It features a spectacular procession with traditional dancers, drummers, fire performers, and richly adorned elephants, including the one carrying the sacred tooth relic.
- Kandy View Point: For panoramic views of the city, head to this viewpoint. It offers a stunning vista of Kandy Lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and the surrounding hills.
- Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statu: This giant Buddha statue is situated on a hill and provides a commanding view of the city. It’s a peaceful spot and offers another perspective of Kandy’s landscape.
- Ceylon Tea Museum: Located in an old tea factory, the museum showcases the history of tea production in Sri Lanka, with exhibits on its pioneers, James Taylor and Thomas Lipton.
- Udawattakele Forest Reserve: A historic forest reserve that was once a royal hunting ground. It offers scenic trails and is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Kandyan Arts and Crafts Industrial Center: A place to observe traditional Kandyan crafts and buy authentic souvenirs.
Culinary Delights
Kandy offers a range of dining options, from street food to fine dining. Some popular local dishes to try include
- Kottu Roti: A dish made from shredded roti, vegetables, eggs, and meat.
- Hoppers (Appa): A type of pancake made with fermented rice batter, often served with a fried egg in the center.
- Sri Lankan Rice and Curry: A staple meal consisting of rice served with various curries, sambols, and other side dishes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kandy is during the cooler months from December to April. However, visiting during the Kandy Esala Perahera in July or August offers a unique cultural experience, though it can be crowded.
Kandy is a city that beautifully blends cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a vibrant local atmosphere. Whether you are exploring its historic sites, enjoying its festivals, or simply relaxing by the lake, Kandy offers a rich and memorable experience.