Sacred City · Culture & Heritage
Kandy
Kandy is the last capital of the ancient Sri Lankan kings, a UNESCO World Heritage city home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Overview
About Kandy
Kandy is the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka, a UNESCO World Heritage city set around a still lake in the central highlands, roughly 115 kilometres from Colombo. It is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, said to house one of Buddhism's most venerated relics, alongside the Royal Palace complex and a lively blend of colonial-era buildings and hillside markets. Surrounded by the Knuckles mountain range and the Royal Botanical Gardens at nearby Peradeniya, Kandy has long served as the cultural and spiritual heart of the island, and its annual Esala Perahera procession remains one of Asia's great religious festivals.
Why visit Kandy
- Pay respects at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Walk the promenade around tranquil Kandy Lake
- Wander the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya
- Catch a traditional Kandyan dance performance
- Browse the hillside markets and colonial-era streets
- Time a visit for the ten-day Esala Perahera procession in July or August
Plan your visit
Things to know before you go
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic requires shoulders and knees to be covered, and shoes must be removed before entering, a sarong or shawl is worth carrying if you're not already dressed modestly. The temple is busiest around the daily poojas at 9:30am and 6:30pm, so early morning or late afternoon visits are calmer. Kandy sits at a useful midpoint between Colombo and the hill country, making it easy to combine with the Royal Botanical Gardens, a scenic train ride toward Ella, or a day trip to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
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Questions
About visiting Kandy
How long should I spend in Kandy?
Most visitors spend one to two days, enough time for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, Kandy Lake, and a half-day trip to the Botanical Gardens.
What should I wear to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic?
Shoulders and knees must be covered and shoes removed before entering; a light sarong or shawl is useful if you arrive underdressed.
What is the Esala Perahera?
A ten-day Buddhist procession held in July or August honoring the Sacred Tooth Relic, featuring costumed elephants, dancers, and drummers, one of Sri Lanka's most spectacular festivals.
Is Kandy a good base for the hill country?
Yes, Kandy is the traditional starting point for the scenic railway up to Nuwara Eliya and Ella, and sits close to Peradeniya and the Knuckles range.
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