How to Make a List of the Best Places to Visit in Kandy – Last Kingdom of Sri Lanka

Kandy can be identified as the gateway to the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It was the island’s last kingdom and is a city with a rich heritage. There are many historically rich places to visit in Kandy with family and friends. From the temple housing a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha to the fascinating elephant orphanage, Kandy will wow you with its salubrious climate and mountain-framed surroundings. Here’s how to make a list of the best places to visit in Kandy.

Image via Wikimedia Commons

Explore the Dalada Maligawa - The Temple of the Tooth Relic

Kandy is a pivotal point for Buddhism because the city houses the Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is a sacred tooth of the Buddha, preserved within a golden casket. Visit this historic shrine to observe the traditional rituals and devotees at prayer. Housed within part of the former Royal Palace, the temple holds within its folds many ancient artefacts, apart from the sacred tooth relic. If you are planning a holiday to Kandy, try to visit the city during the Esala Perahera season. It takes place towards the end of July and early August. The ‘Perahera’ is a grand parade of elegantly clad elephants, aristocrats, drummers, dancers, fire breathers, and many other exotic performers. The grandest aspect of the parade is the temple elephant who carries on its back the sacred tooth relic inside a gold and gem-studded case. Being part of the annual ceremony is one best things to do in Kandy, amongst many other experiences. Learn more about the historic city and where to visit from informative sites such as Kandy Escapes.

Visit the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage

Enjoy up-close-and-personal encounters with the gentle giants of the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage. Located on the way to Kandy, you can plan to visit this place on your way up to the highlands. Check out the official website for more details and you can get there on time to be a part of the elephant calves feeding process. Then, follow the adult herd across the road to the river where they enjoy splashing about in the cold water. You need cameras for this expedition!

Be Stunned by the Surroundings at the Bahiravakanda Temple

The Bahiravakanda Buddhist Temple is home to a giant 88-feet Buddha statue. The huge white statue is an iconic landmark as it can be seen from many points in the Kandy town. Located on the hill known as Bahiravakanda, a visit to the temple will reward you with bird’s-eye views of the surroundings.

Walk Around the Kandy Lake

The Kandy Lake sits right in front of the Temple of the Tooth Relic and is right smack in the middle of town. It is known in Sinhalese as Kiri Muhuda, which translates as the “Sea of Milk”. Built on the commission of one of Kandy’s kings, the lake is deemed sacred and no fishing is allowed there. However, you buy popcorn from the sellers near the lake and feed the fish thriving within the waters of the lake. You can also take a boat tour of the island and visit the small manmade island in the centre. The banks of the Kandy lake have been turned into walking paths, with garden seats offering a tempting respite. Go there to enjoy the soothing breezes wafting across the lake and the serenity of nature.

Alexey Komarov, Kandy Lake - panoramio, CC BY 3.0

Explore the International Buddhist Museum

This museum is located within the same premises as the Temple of the Tooth Relic. The displays there update visitors on Buddhism reach across the world. It is also home to many artefacts gifted to Sri Lankan heads of state by visiting dignitaries. There are many old documents and books held within the extensive library there.