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Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, elegantly nests among the hills of the island’s central province. Renowned for its rich history and spiritual significance, the city is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site that asserts great religious fervor. The serene Kandy Lake offers a picturesque setting, while the annual Esala Perahera festival brings vibrant processions of elephants, traditional dancers, and drummers, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. With its lush greenery and cooler climate, Kandy offers a refreshing retreat from the tropical coastlines of Sri Lanka.
When visiting Kandy, arrive early at the Temple of the Tooth Relic to avoid the crowds and experience a more personal connection with this sacred site.
Plan your visit during the Esala Perahera festival to witness Kandy’s grandest cultural spectacle, which vividly showcases the rich traditions of Sri Lanka.
How to best experience Kandy?
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Kandy: The Heart of Sri Lankan Heritage
| Country | Sri Lanka |
| Time in Kandy | GMT+5:30 |
| Language spoken | Sinhalese |
| Population | 125,400 (source: World Population Review) |
| Currency | Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR ₨) |
| Airports | Polgolla Reservoir Airport (6 mi / 10 km) |
Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, illustrates a glorious mix of history and modernity. Nestled among the hills in the Central Province, Kandy is famed for the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses a sacred tooth of the Buddha. This city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, thrives with ancient arts, cultural spectacles, and a vibrant local community.
Kandy’s history stretches back to the 15th century when it was the last royal capital of Sri Lanka. The city’s strategic location and its resilience against colonial forces are legendary. The annual Esala Perahera festival, which features a parade of elephants decked in glittering costumes, traditional dancers, and drummers, continually attracts visitors and locals alike, embodying the city’s spiritual and cultural significance.
The city is not only a trove of historical artifacts and traditions but also provides a gateway to exploring the lush, green mountains surrounding the area. The Royal Botanical Gardens, just west of the city, is renowned for its collection of orchids and a stately avenue of royal palms. In downtown Kandy, the Kandy Lake offers a peaceful escape from the city’s busyness, with paths winding around the scenic lake, ideal for evening strolls or morning jogs.
Beyond traditional arts and historical architecture, Kandy is also a hub for education and local crafts. Several markets in the city offer intricately designed handicrafts, while local eateries provide glimpses into Sri Lanka’s culinary diversity, with dishes flavored with coconut, spices, and aromatic rice.
Visitors to Kandy leave with enriched senses and a deep appreciation for the complexities of Sri Lanka’s history and its ongoing cultural narratives. Whether it’s strolling through the historic sites, participating in vivid festivals or just enjoying the natural beauty, Kandy offers an experience that is both profound and enchanting.
Where is Kandy?
Located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, Kandy is nestled amongst the country’s hilly interior, rich in both history and biodiversity.
Distances:
| Route | Distance by car | Time by car |
|---|---|---|
| Colombo to Kandy | 72 miles (116 km) | 3 hours |
| Galle to Kandy | 126 miles (203 km) | 4 hours 30 minutes |
What is Kandy famous for?
Kandy is most renowned for the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites. The city is also known for its vibrant Esala Perahera festival, rich history, and scenic lake.
History
Up to 1592: Ancient Beginnings and the Kandyan Kingdom
Kandy, known in ancient times as Senkadagalapura, has a rich history that traces back to the 14th century. Originally a part of the Kingdom of Gampola, Kandy became prominent under the reign of King Vickramabahu III. The city gained significant importance as the capital of the last Sinhalese Kingdom after the coastal regions fell to colonial powers. The Kingdom of Kandy was renowned for its fierce resistance against both Portuguese and Dutch colonization, maintaining its independence for centuries longer than other parts of the island.
1592-1815: The Era of Independence and European Encroachments
During this period, Kandy stood as a beacon of resistance and independence. The Kandyan kings fortified the city’s defenses and preserved the unique traditions and culture despite repeated attempts by European powers to conquer it. The kingdom’s isolationist policies allowed it to sustain its indigenous heritage and resist foreign domination, making Kandy a symbol of national pride. Key events include the construction of the Temple of the Tooth, which houses the sacred relic of the tooth of the Buddha, becoming a major religious and cultural landmark.
1815-Present: Colonial Rule to Modern Era
The British succeeded where the Portuguese and Dutch had failed, capturing Kandy in 1815 and integrating it into their Ceylon colony. This marked the end of the Kandyan Kingdom’s independence. During British rule, Kandy transformed significantly with the introduction of modern infrastructure, including roads and railways that connected it with other parts of the island. Post-independence in 1948, Kandy continued to thrive as a cultural and spiritual center in Sri Lanka. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage city, celebrated for its historical significance and well-preserved heritage sites.
Visit Kandy
What to see and do in Kandy
Kandy, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors. The Temple of the Tooth is a must-see, revered as one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, which boasts a vast collection of tropical flora and an orchid house. Culture enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Kandy Lake, built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, and strolling around the lake’s peaceful path. The city’s vibrant cultural dance shows offer a glimpse into the traditional Kandyan dance forms. For a shopping experience, the Kandy City Centre and local markets provide a variety of arts, crafts, and souvenirs.
- Temple of the Tooth
- Royal Botanical Gardens
- Kandy Lake and cultural dance shows
- Shopping in Kandy City Centre
Festivals and Events in Kandy
The Esala Perahera, one of Sri Lanka’s grandest festivals, is held annually in July or August in Kandy. This spectacular event features dancers, jugglers, musicians, fire-breathers, and lavishly decorated elephants parading through the streets, making it a truly mesmerizing spectacle. The Kandy Arts Festival, another notable event, showcases local arts, crafts, and cultural performances, drawing visitors and locals alike.
Best time to visit Kandy
The best time to visit Kandy is during the dry season, from January to April, when the weather is most favorable for exploring the city and its surroundings. This period also avoids the heavier monsoon rains and coincides with various local festivities, providing an authentic insight into Kandy’s rich culture.
Is Kandy worth visiting?
Kandy is unquestionably worth visiting for anyone interested in culture, history, and nature. The city’s historical landmarks, combined with its cultural heritage and scenic surroundings, offer a comprehensive travel experience. However, visitors should be prepared for crowded conditions during major festivals like the Esala Perahera. Despite these challenges, Kandy’s unique offerings and the warmth of its people make it a rewarding destination.