Kandy is the second largest city and also the capital city of the central province of Sri Lanka. It is located in the middle of hills in the Kandy Valley, which crosses an area of tropical plantations, primarily tea. Kandy is famous for being both administrative and a religious city. In Sinhala language, Kandy is named as 'Maha Nuvara', which means 'Great City'. According to the historical records, Kandy came into existence in 1357'1374 CE under the aegis of the King Wickramabahu. Kandy is among the top rated tourist destinations in Sri Lanka.
Tourist Attractions in Kandy
The Temple of Tooth
The Temple of Tooth is also known as Dalda Maligawa. It is considered as one of the most holy Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. In the Temple of Tooth, one of the Buddha's teeth is reserved. The temple was established in the 17th century.
Knuckle Mountains
In the Knuckle Mountains, there are 35 peaks mounting to more than 3000 feet (915 m). The Knuckle range spreads across 90 square miles. Apart from that, it has a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Embekke Temple
Embekke Temple was established in 14th century. The temple is most famous for the complex wooden carvings dedicated to God Katargama. Some wooden buildings are entirely decorated with dancers, musicians, wrestlers, legendary beasts and birds.
Udawatte Kele
Udawatte Kele is an ancient forest in Sri Lanka. It is situated above the Dalada Maligawa. It has a number of varieties of trees like Talipot trees, kitul palms, cinnamon, olive, rattan cane, betel, bo-trees, jak, mara, betelnut and arecanut. The forest is also famous as the Forbidden Forest of the Kings of Kandy.
Lankatilaka Temple
Lankatilaka Temple was built way back in 14th century on the peak of a rock which is known as Panhalgala. Here, tourists come to see a picturesque view of the surrounding hills, paddy fields and the diverse vegetation that is surrounding it.
Peradeniya Garden
Peradeniya Garden is popular for its orchid House, which houses more than 300 varieties of exquisite orchids. It was established in 14th century, during the era of King Vikrama Bahu III. There is also a spice garden that is used in the traditional Ayurvedic medicine.
Gadaladeniya Temple
It is located on the top of the hill with a 15 km distance from Kandy. The temple was built in 1344 with an inspiration of Dravidian architecture. It attracts attention of the tourists from round the world towards its spectacular view of the surrounding countryside.
Other Tourist Attractions
Buddhist Temples
Buddhist Temples in Kandy are also the major attractions for the visitors of Sri Lanka. However, there are many Buddhist temples around Kandy, but the most famous are Malwaththa and Asgiri temples that are located on the coasts of the lake.
Hanthana Mountains
Hanthana Mountains are located on the suburbs of Kandy. They are a source of many streams. Trekkers from round the world come to this place, to enjoy trekking.
Hindu Shrines
One of the main features of Kandy is several Hindu shrines. There are four Hindu shrines, which are dedicated to God Vishnu and Natha and Goddess Patthini. Three of them are located near to the Temple of Tooth, while the fourth one is towards the town.
