Kandy
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500M · HILL COUNTRY

Kandy

The last royal capital, home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

OVERVIEW

Kandy was the last independent kingdom of Sri Lanka before British rule, set around a scenic lake in the central highlands. Its centrepiece is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.

HISTORY

Kandy resisted colonization far longer than the coastal regions, remaining the seat of Sinhalese kings until 1815. The city's Esala Perahera festival, featuring decorated elephants and traditional dancers, dates back centuries and remains one of Asia's great processions.

THINGS TO DO

  • Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
  • Walk around Kandy Lake at sunset
  • See a traditional Kandyan dance performance
  • Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya, just outside the city

TRAVEL TIPS

  • Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the temple
  • Kandy is the starting point for the scenic train ride to Ella — book seats in advance in peak season

WHERE TO STAY

We suggest these as a starting point — we'll confirm the right fit for your budget and dates when we plan your trip.