Kandy, the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, is encircled by tea plantations and mountain ranges. Kandy is a popular destination for tourists who want to spend a day or two exploring its colonial structures and religious spirituality. Although most travel guides list Kandy City as the main attraction, there are more impressive views to explore in Kandy City.
01.Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Tooth, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is the number one attraction in Kandy. It is located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. It has added much significance to the city. The temple has long been regarded as a place of importance for both Sri Lankan and international visitors due to the temple housing the tooth of the Buddha which is enclosed inside several golden boxes, covered in jewels. So, this temple became a deeply spiritual place in Sri Lanka. Plan an early morning visit to take part in the morning Buddhist offering called Thewawa. The most ideal time to visit is during the annual Esala Perahera season.
02.Royal Botanical Garden
As early as 1371, the Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya was established. Today, it’s home to over 10,000 trees spread across 60 hectares. The gardens further showcase all of Sri Lanka’s unique flora along with native species from all around the tropical world. It is situated a 15-minute drive west of Kandy and can be reached easily via a tuk-tuk ride. It is a pleasant escape from the city, a place where people of all ages gather, especially at the weekends. Enjoy the massive garden, take a towel and relax in the grass, or grab a drink at the cafe.
03.Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
Udawattakele is a large forest reserve situated behind the Temple of the Tooth Relic, spread over an enormous area of over 257 acres. In history, it was the king’s personal garden and is now an urban forest. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife seekers due to its diverse fauna and curvy roads suitable for thrilling bike rides. It contains a wide array of plant species, including giant lianas, shrubs, and small trees. The park is home to small and medium mammals, reptiles, and other animals that are endemic to Sri Lanka. Additionally, there are three Buddhist meditation hermitages and stunning rock shelters built by Buddhist monks and hermits in Lanka. Hiking trails are located within the sanctuary, which is about a 5 km round trip. There are a few sights to see in the reserve. These include the water pond, the highest peak of Kodimale, Senkanda Cave, and several Buddhist temples. You can enjoy walking through the forest under the thick canopy, escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, and experiencing tropical nature at its finest.
04.Nature walks along Kandy Lake
Right at the heart of Kandy is the Kandy Lake, a relaxing nature walk around the lake must be on your Kandy things-to-do list! The area around the lake is mostly visited by visitors who love peace. A peaceful walk in the morning hours with the Tooth Relic Temple and rainforest looming in the backdrop makes for the perfect setup to enjoy a leisure stroll around Kandy Lake. A lot of visitors practice Buddhist meditation and spread chants in the surrounding areas as well. Such a place gives you plenty of time to meditate and rediscover yourself which is one of the most unique things to do in Kandy.
05.Explore the Kandy Market Streets of Kandy Old Town
It is a favorite attraction of those who visit Sri Lanka, especially the hustle and bustle of local markets. Because there is always something to see, someone to meet, or, more importantly, food to eat. Between Sri Delada Veediya Road and Colombo Street, the old town of Kandy is home to a labyrinth of market stores that sell everything from textiles to incense. The streets are filled with local Kandyans rushing about their daily business, and we found it an excellent place to experience the ‘real’ Kandy. In the old town, there are many sights worth visiting, including the Giragama Walawwa, which is the oldest walawwa (old royal building) in Kandy, the historic and striking Red Mosque of Kandy, or the colorful Kataragama Devalaya Hindu temple.
06.Kandy Main Market and City Center
Kandy City Center and Central Market offer travelers a wide variety of shopping opportunities. Kandy City Centre is a ten-stories commercial and retail complex which is located in Kandy. Exploring the local marketplace is certainly one of the most enjoyable things to do in Kandy. With its ultra-modern features and unique architecture, the Kandy city center mall attracts a substantial number of visitors. As well as having well-designed restaurants, supermarkets, and entertainment areas, the mall also has many showrooms featuring designer wear, handicraft stores, and accessories shops.
07.Paul’s Church in Kandy
This imposing holy sanctuary, built in 1848, is located next to the Temple of the Tooth Relic on the main sacred grounds. Originally constructed as a representation of British dominance, it is now venerated as a sacred site by the Sri Lankan people. It is also a magnificent example of the colonial architecture of that era. This church has been preserved under supervision for more than 150 years and is a wonderful example of a multi-religious history, drawing visitors in with its straightforward and roomy interior.
08.Historic Three Temples Loop in Kandy
Although the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic may be the most significant temple in Kandy, there are many other temples that are well worth seeing. Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Embekke, and Lankathilaka, three of these temples, make up the aptly titled “three temple loop” and provide a tangible example of Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist culture and craftsmanship.
