Kandy District

Kandy District

đŸ›ī¸ Central Province | Cultural Capital, Temple of Tooth & Botanical Gardens

About Kandy District

Kandy District is the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and the last capital of the ancient kings. This UNESCO World Heritage city is nestled in the hills surrounded by a scenic lake and offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

The district is famous for its traditional arts, Kandyan dancing, the magnificent Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and the spectacular Esala Perahera festival. It serves as the gateway to the hill country and offers numerous cultural and nature experiences.

Main Attractions

Temple of Tooth Relic
đŸ›ī¸ Temple of Tooth Relic

Most sacred Buddhist temple, UNESCO World Heritage

Peradeniya Gardens
đŸŒē Peradeniya Gardens

Asia's finest botanical gardens, 147 acres

Bahirawa Kanda Temple
â›Šī¸ Bahirawa Kanda Temple

Hilltop temple with panoramic views

Gems Museum
💎 Gems Museum

Sri Lankan gemstones and demonstrations

Udawaththa Forest
🌲 Udawaththa Forest

Forest reserve, nature walks, bird watching

Hanthana View Point
🌄 Hanthana View Point

Mountain viewpoint with panoramic views

Mathale Hindu Kovil
🛕 Mathale Hindu Kovil

Beautiful Hindu temple, colorful architecture

Quick Info

  • Province Central Province
  • UNESCO Status World Heritage Site
  • Best Time to Visit Year-round, August for Esala Perahera
  • How to Reach 3-4 hours from Colombo by train or road
  • Climate Cool and pleasant, 20-25°C
  • Temple Dress Code Cover shoulders and knees, white preferred

Attractions & Activities

đŸ›ī¸ Religious & Cultural Sites

Temple of the Tooth Relic

Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist temple housing Buddha's tooth relic. Witness daily puja ceremonies.

Religious

Bahirawa Kanda Temple

Hilltop temple offering panoramic views of Kandy city. Beautiful sunset views.

Religious

Mathale Hindu Kovil

Colorful Hindu temple with beautiful architecture and religious significance.

Religious

Kandyan Dance Shows

Traditional Kandyan dancing performances showcasing Sri Lankan culture and heritage.

Culture

đŸŒē Nature & Gardens

Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens

One of Asia's finest tropical gardens with 147 acres, rare plant species, giant bamboo, and orchid collection.

Nature

Udawaththa Forest

Forest reserve in city center for nature walks, bird watching, and peaceful escape. Home to monkeys.

Nature

Hanthana View Point

Scenic mountain viewpoint with panoramic views of Kandy. Great for photography and hiking.

Viewpoint

Kandy Lake

Man-made lake built by the last king of Kandy. Perfect for leisurely walks with beautiful scenery.

Nature

💎 Experiences

Gems Museum

Learn about Sri Lankan gemstones, gem cutting demonstrations, and gem shopping.

Experience

Esala Perahera Festival

Grand procession with decorated elephants, dancers, and drummers in July/August.

Festival

Tea Plantation Tours

Visit nearby tea estates and factories to learn about Ceylon tea production.

Experience

Spice Gardens

Learn about Sri Lankan spices, guided tours, and spice shopping.

Experience
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