The last royal kingdom of Sri Lanka, home of the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, serene lake, and lush botanical gardens.
Central Province
Sri Lanka / Field journal
About Kandy
Nestled amidst mist-clad hills in the island's interior, Kandy is the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka. It served as the last capital of the Sinhalese kings until 1815. The sacred Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) attracts pilgrims from around the world. Surrounding Kandy Lake are bustling markets, tea plantations, and the world-renowned Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens featuring over 4,000 species of tropical flora.
Must-Experience Highlights
01Attend the evening puja drumming ceremony at the Temple of the Tooth
02Stroll through Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens and Orchid House
03Experience traditional Kandyan drumming and fire-walking dance performances
04Scenic walks around Kandy Lake and Upper Lake viewpoint
Local Chauffeur Advice & Travel Tips
•When visiting the Temple of the Tooth, shoulders and knees must be covered.
•White clothing is traditionally preferred and deeply respected at Buddhist temples.
Tours Visiting Kandy
These curated packages feature Kandyas a major itinerary stop.
An action-packed 8-day circuit across Sri Lanka's cultural peaks, central highlands, scenic Ella railway, and Yala wildlife safari with coastal relaxation.
—Climb 5th-century Sigiriya Rock Fortress and admire mirror wall frescoes
—Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in historic Kandy