Kandy

Temple of the Tooth

• The Temple of the Tooth, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is located in Kandy, a major city in the Central Province of Sri Lanka.
• The temple houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, which is considered one of the most important Buddhist relics in the world.
• The Temple of the Tooth is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its cultural and historical significance.
• The temple is renowned for its traditional Kandyan architecture, featuring intricate wood carvings, golden canopies, and decorative elements.
• Daily rituals and ceremonies are performed at the temple, attracting devotees and tourists who come to witness these spiritual practices.
• The temple is the focal point of the Esala Perahera, a grand annual festival featuring colourful processions, elephant parades, and traditional dances.
• The complex includes a museum that displays a variety of Buddhist artefacts, historical objects, and information about the temple's history and significance.

Royal Botanical Gardens

• The Royal Botanical Gardens are located in Peradeniya, just outside of Kandy.
• They were first established as a royal pleasure garden in the 14th century but were later expanded and opened to the public in 1821.
• The gardens cover over 147 acres and feature a stunning array of plant life, including over 4,000 species of plants, trees, and flowers.
• Some of the gardens' highlights include the giant Javan fig tree, the orchid house, and the spice garden.
• The gardens are also home to various wildlife, including monkeys, bats, and bird species.
• Visitors can stroll through the gardens or take a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.
• The gardens are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm, with a small entrance fee for visitors.
• Overall, the Royal Botanical Gardens are a must-see destination for nature lovers and anyone interested in Sri Lanka's rich flora and fauna.

Kandy Lake

• Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda (Sea of Milk), is a vital component of Kandy's urban landscape, providing a serene counterpoint to the bustling city.
• According to legend, Kandy Lake was built on the advice of a monk who foresaw a drought in the region.
• The lake was designed to serve as a water source for the city and as a defensive barrier against foreign invaders.
• Over the years, the lake has undergone several renovations and improvements, including adding a fountain and a dam to control the water level.
• Several important landmarks surround the lake, including the Temple of the Tooth, the Sri Dalada Museum, and the National Museum of Kandy.
• The lake and its surroundings are a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light is lovely.
• Visitors can rent paddle boats or swan-shaped boats to explore the lake and its surroundings, adding more fun to their visit.
• Kandy Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Kandy, as it offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Bahirawakanda Vihara

• Bahirawakanda Vihara is a Buddhist temple located in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
• The temple is famous for its giant Buddha statue, which stands at 88 feet (26.8 metres).
• The Buddha statue was built in 1972 and is made of concrete and steel.
• It is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka and is visible from many parts of the city.
• The statue depicts the Buddha in the posture of the Dhyana Mudra, which symbolises meditation and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment.
• The temple complex also includes a stupa, a bo tree, and other smaller Buddha statues.
• Visitors can climb a staircase to reach the base of the Buddha statue and enjoy panoramic views of Kandy from the top.
• The temple is a popular tourist attraction and an important religious site for Sri Lankan Buddhists.
• Bahirawakanda Vihara is located on a hilltop and is easily accessible by tuk-tuk or car.

Knuckles Mountain Range

• The range got its name due to its peaks, which resemble clenched fists or knuckles.
• The range is rich in biodiversity, with numerous endemic species of flora and fauna.
• The area is a popular destination for hikers, with several trekking trails offering stunning landscape views.
• The range is home to several waterfalls, including the famous Sera Ella waterfall.
• The area is also famous for its traditional agricultural practices, with terraced rice paddies and vegetable gardens dotting the landscape.
• The range is home to several remote villages where visitors can experience traditional village life and learn about local customs and traditions.
• The area is also a popular destination for camping, with several camping sites offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
• The range is easily accessible from Kandy, with several tour operators offering guided tours and transportation to the area.

Kandyan Dance Performance

• Kandyan dance is accompanied by a group of drummers who play several types of drums, including the Geta Beraya, Dawula, and Thammattama.
• The dance is performed by male dancers wearing colourful traditional costumes, headdresses, and jewellery.
• The dance includes intricate and athletic movements, such as acrobatic flips, jumps, and spins.
• The performance also includes symbolic gestures, such as hand movements and facial expressions, to convey various meanings and emotions.
• Kandyan dance is often performed to mark special occasions, such as weddings, religious festivals, and cultural events.
• The dance has been recognised as an important cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and a symbol of the country's rich artistic traditions.
• Today, Kandyan dance performances are a popular attraction for tourists visiting Sri Lanka, and several cultural centres and theatres offer regular shows for visitors.

Kandy Market

• Kandy Market, also known as the Kandy Public Market, is famous in the heart of Kandy city in Sri Lanka.
• The market is housed in a large building with a red roof and offers a wide range of goods for locals and tourists alike.
• The market is famous for its fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices from local farms and plantations.
• In addition to fresh produce, the market also offers a variety of other goods, such as clothing, textiles, handicrafts, souvenirs, and household items.
• The market is a great place to experience the local culture and interact with friendly vendors who are always happy to chat and offer advice.
• The prices at the market are usually very reasonable, and visitors can bargain for even better deals.
• The market is open every day from early morning to late evening, and it can get quite crowded during peak hours.
• Visitors are advised to oversee their belongings and be cautious of pickpockets.
• Overall, Kandy Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant local culture and sample the delicious cuisine of Sri Lanka.

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

• Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a forest reserve in the heart of Kandy City, Sri Lanka.
• It is a historic forest that has been protected since the days of the Kandyan Kingdom.
• The sanctuary covers an area of 104 hectares and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
• The forest has over 400 plant species, including medicinal plants, orchids, and trees like ebony, teak, and mahogany.
• Udawatta Kele is also home to many species of birds, butterflies, and mammals, such as macaques, purple-faced langurs, and civets.
• The sanctuary is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with over 80 species of birds identified in the forest.
• Udawatta Kele also contains several historic sites, including an ancient temple, a British garrison cemetery, and a pond that the Kandyan kings used for bathing.
• Visitors can explore the forest through several trails, including a nature trail and a canopy walkway that provides a bird's-eye view of the forest.
• The sanctuary also offers guided tours; visitors can learn about the forest's history, ecology, and cultural significance.

Kandy Museum

• The Kandy Museum is located in the former palace of the Kandyan kings, known as the Royal Palace of Kandy or the Palle Vahala.
• The museum houses a collection of artefacts and exhibits that depict the history, culture, and traditions of the Kandyan kingdom and Sri Lanka.
• The exhibits include weapons, jewellery, costumes, traditional masks, paintings, and other cultural items.
• The museum also contains a collection of Buddhist relics, including a tooth relic of the Buddha.
• Visitors can explore the royal chambers and learn about the lifestyle and customs of the Kandyan kings.
• The museum also features a section dedicated to the history of Sri Lanka's tea industry and the process of tea production.
• The museum provides guided tours to visitors, with knowledgeable guides providing insight and information about the exhibits and artefacts.
• The Kandy Museum is an essential cultural and historical landmark in Sri Lanka, offering visitors a glimpse into the country's rich and diverse heritage.

Food

• Kandy offers a delectable culinary experience that reflects Sri Lankan cuisine's rich flavours and traditions.
• The city is known for its diverse dishes blending aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and unique cooking techniques.
• One of the iconic dishes of Kandy is Kandyan chicken curry, a flavorful and aromatic curry made with a blend of spices and coconut milk.
• The region is also famous for its traditional sweetmeats, including Kiri Pani (milk toffee) and Konda Kavum (oil cakes), which are popular during festive seasons.
• Another must-try dish in Kandy is Kandyan biryani, a fragrant rice dish cooked with various spices, meat, and vegetables.
• For those seeking a vegetarian option, Kandyan vegetable stew is a delicious choice made with a medley of vegetables in a creamy coconut milk base.
• Kandy is also known for its street food scene, where you can savour mouthwatering snacks like isso vadai (shrimp fritters), kottu roti (chopped roti stir-fry), and hoppers (traditional pancakes).
• Don't forget to indulge in a cup of aromatic Ceylon tea, the region's signature beverage.

Fun

• Kandy offers many exciting and enjoyable activities for visitors to indulge in.
• Begin your exploration with a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens, where you can stroll amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, vibrant flower beds, and exotic plant species.
• Explore the picturesque Kandy Lake, a serene spot ideal for a leisurely walk or a boat ride while admiring the scenic surroundings.
• Embark on a thrilling adventure by hiking to the iconic Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, which offers panoramic city views.
• Delve into traditional arts and crafts at the Kandy Cultural Centre, where you can witness live demonstrations of wood carving, batik making, and traditional drumming.
• Attend a cultural show at the Kandyan Art Association and Cultural Centre, showcasing mesmerising Kandyan dance performances and drumming displays.
• Take a scenic train ride through the misty hills to Ella, passing through breathtaking landscapes and lush tea plantations.

Fashion

• Kandy showcases a unique blend of traditional and contemporary fashion that reflects the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
• The traditional Kandyan saree is captivating attire adorned by women, featuring a richly embroidered blouse, a draped saree with intricate patterns, and a bejewelled waistband.
• Men often wear the traditional Kandyan costume, consisting of a white cloth draped around the waist, a long-sleeved jacket, and a headpiece known as "mul and."
• The city is known for its bustling markets, where you can find vibrant batik clothing, handwoven sarongs, and intricately designed jewellery.
• Kandy is also famous for its gemstones, and you can explore jewellery stores to find exquisite pieces adorned with precious stones like sapphires and topazes.
• Additionally, Kandy is home to numerous boutiques and fashion stores that combine traditional and contemporary clothing, blending modern designs with traditional motifs and fabrics.

Safety

Given the reputation of several South Asian nations, you may be wondering if it is safe to travel (mainly if you are female). Don't be concerned — the island is home to some of the world's friendliest and most hospitable people, and it is safe for single travellers. However, you must be cautious with your valuables and mindful of your behaviour in a strange country.

Transport

Travelling across Sri Lanka is typically seen to be inexpensive and straightforward. If you only need to go a short distance, you may hail one of the country's colourful tuk-tuks from the side of the road. You may also request a car to pick you up using a ride-hailing app like Uber or PickMe. However, taking public transportation, such as a bus or train, would be significantly more cost-effective.

Locations

Some cities are more expensive for travellers, especially in more significant "traveller" locations. Many traveller destinations have ticket costs far higher than those charged to residents. However, if you select your trips intelligently, you may enjoy your holiday for much less money.

Accommodation

Sri Lanka has a wide range of visitor lodgings accessible, ranging from boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Use services like booking.com to compare hotel prices rapidly. Homestays are a popular choice among budget travellers since they allow you to live more like a local, eat home-cooked meals, and your money goes directly to the local community.

Food

Many high-end restaurants in Sri Lanka provide a variety of foreign cuisine, but if you want to dine well for less, try some of the country's delectable indigenous delicacies. Rice and curries are famous on the island. Still, you can broaden your horizons by trying string hoppers, kottu roti, or lamprais - all delicious, satisfying dishes that satisfy your stomach and your wallet. Vegetarian meals are the least expensive, with modest price increases when adding proteins such as chicken, beef, or seafood.

Should I schedule my transportation in advance through a travel agent?

Travel agencies with local contacts, experience, and skills can make your visit to Sri Lanka more canker-free and fun-filled. We can plan your holiday, obtain the most excellent deals, and provide you with transportation. And other services to make your holiday special. Schedule a comfortable holiday with a local travel company like Sri Lanka World holiday vibes. It all depends on your decision.