Overview
Kandy is the second-largest city in Sri Lanka and the capital of the Central Province. It is located about 115 km (72 miles) from the commercial capital of Colombo. Kandy is renowned for its cultural significance, scenic beauty, and as the home of the famous Temple of the Tooth.
Cultural Significance
Kandy holds great cultural and religious importance in Sri Lanka. It was the last capital of the Sinhalese kings and is considered the cultural capital of the country. Key cultural attractions include:
– Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) – This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses what is believed to be a sacred relic of the Buddha’s tooth.
– Esala Perahera Festival – An annual Buddhist festival featuring colorful processions, dancers, and elephants.
– Royal Botanical Gardens – Extensive gardens established in the 14th century by the Kandyan kings.
– Cultural Dance Performances – Traditional Kandyan dance shows are a popular tourist activity.
Natural Attractions
Kandy is situated amidst picturesque hills, lakes, and rivers, offering beautiful natural scenery:
– Kandy Lake – An artificial lake at the heart of the city, popular for walks and boat rides.
– Hanthana Mountain Range – Scenic mountains with hiking trails and viewpoints.
– Knuckles Mountain Range – A UNESCO World Heritage-listed mountain range known for its biodiversity.
Getting There and Around
Kandy is easily accessible from other parts of Sri Lanka:
– By train – One of the most scenic train journeys in the world connects Kandy to Colombo.
– By bus – Regular bus services link Kandy to major cities and towns across the country.
– By car/taxi – The drive from Colombo takes approximately 3-4 hours.
Within Kandy, visitors can get around by tuk-tuk, taxi, or local buses. Guided walking tours are also a popular way to explore the city’s heritage sites.
