Set among the forested hills of central Sri Lanka, Kandy is one of the island’s most culturally significant cities and the last royal capital of the Sinhalese kingdom.
At the heart of the city lies Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Pilgrims gather daily for rituals that have shaped the spiritual life of the city for centuries.
Beyond the lake, forested hills, historic temples, and quiet viewpoints surround Kandy, giving the city a calm atmosphere shaped by both nature and tradition.
For many journeys through Sri Lanka, Kandy marks the transition between the island’s ancient cultural heartland and the tea-covered landscapes of the central highlands.
Kandy, Your Way
Every place reveals itself differently — discover its landscapes, culture and rhythms in the way that suits you.
Culture, History & Local Life
Kandy has long been one of Sri Lanka’s most important cultural centres. At its heart stands the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, where daily rituals and centuries-old traditions continue to shape life in the city. Around the lake and nearby streets, pilgrims, monks, and local residents move through a city where history, spirituality, and everyday life remain closely connected and visible in daily routines.
Highlights
- Evening ceremony at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Kandyan dance and drumming performances
- Exploring the Royal Palace complex
Nature, Wildlife & Landscapes
Kandy’s setting among forested hills gives the city a peaceful natural backdrop. Trails, viewpoints, and protected forests reveal the landscapes that surround the city and connect it to Sri Lanka’s hill country. Just beyond the lake, jungle paths and forest reserves offer space to explore nature close to the city, from shaded trails beneath towering trees to hilltop viewpoints overlooking Kandy and the surrounding mountains.
Highlights
- Morning walk in Udawattakele Forest Reserve
- Hilltop views over Kandy Lake
- Orchid gardens at Peradeniya
Slow Travel & Local Experiences
Kandy invites travellers to slow down and experience Sri Lanka’s spiritual and cultural rhythms. Time here is best spent along lakeside paths, exploring local markets, and observing everyday life unfold. These quieter moments reveal the atmosphere of the city, where temple rituals, neighbourhood streets, and hillside landscapes shape the rhythm of daily life in the hills.
Highlights
- Walking the lakeside path at sunset
- Browsing Kandy’s local produce markets
- Tea overlooking the hills surrounding the city
At first light in Kandy, temple drums echo as pilgrims arrive
Kandy Highlights
Places, landscapes and moments that reveal the character and spirit of this destination.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
One of Buddhism’s most sacred temples, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic stands in the heart of Kandy. Pilgrims arrive daily with lotus flowers for ancient rituals.
Kandy Lake
Created by the last Kandyan king, this tranquil lake lies at the centre of Kandy. Walking its shoreline reveals views of temples, forested hills, and the rhythm of life around the water.
Udawattakele Forest Reserve
Just above the city lies this forest sanctuary once reserved for Kandyan royalty. Today it offers peaceful trails, birdlife and a quiet escape into nature.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya
Near Kandy, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya are among Sri Lanka’s most beautiful. Palms, tropical trees and orchids line peaceful garden paths.
Culture
Sacred Heritage of Kandy
Kandy has long been the cultural and spiritual heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country. At the centre of the city stands the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, where daily rituals continue much as they have for centuries. The city is also the home of Kandyan dance — one of Sri Lanka’s most distinctive cultural art forms. With elaborate costumes and rhythmic drumming, these performances reflect the heritage of the ancient Kandyan kingdom.
Highlights
- Witness temple ceremonies at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Experience traditional Kandyan dance performances
- Visit the Royal Palace complex beside Kandy Lake
