Kandy

"Kandy, nestled in the lush hill country of Sri Lanka, is a city of deep cultural, historical, and spiritual significance. As the last capital of the ancient Sinhala kings, it played a crucial role in preserving the island’s heritage during colonial times. The city’s crown jewel is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses a sacred tooth of the Buddha and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by emerald-green hills, Kandy is also known for the picturesque Kandy Lake, which adds to its serene atmosphere. The city comes alive during the annual Esala Perahera, a grand cultural procession featuring elephants, dancers, and drummers that pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic. Beyond its cultural attractions, Kandy offers a gateway to nature, while the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya showcases a stunning collection of flora. The bustling streets of Kandy are perfect for sampling local delights like Kandyan sweets or shopping for traditional crafts and jewelry. **Pro tip:** Visit the city in the early morning to explore the Temple of the Tooth before the crowds, and plan a sunset walk around the lake for spectacular views of Kandy’s skyline. Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic train ride to or from Kandy, one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world."

"Kandy is an important city that has lot to offer. I had the chance to attend to a Buddhist Ceremony, and it was really impressive, as in there is where one of the Buda's tooth is kept. In addition to that, you can visit the huge Buda statue and monastery located on top of the city before moving to the tea plantations towards the interior part. "

"Kandy it’s a big city in the centre of the island. We were there for the Esala Perahera and literally the city is in pure chaos! Everything is closed and even walking around the city will be difficult. The show is bittersweet: elephants in chains and a lot of noise, lights and a lot of crowd!"