Top 11 Places to visit in kandy in 2024
The Temple of the Tooth, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a sacred Buddhist temple located in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most revered and significant religious sites in the country. The temple houses a relic believed to be the tooth of Lord Buddha. This relic is considered highly sacred and has great significance for Buddhists. The Temple of the Tooth is a splendid example of Kandyan architecture. It features intricate woodwork, carvings, and a red-tiled roof. The temple is associated with the Esala Perahera, an annual procession featuring cultural performances and a majestic tusker (elephant) carrying the sacred relic casket. The inner chamber that houses the tooth relic is known as the "Vadahitina Maligawa." Visitors may have the opportunity to view this sacred chamber during designated times. An octagonal pavilion with a unique design, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area. The tooth relic is considered one of the holiest objects in Buddhism, and the Temple of the Tooth is a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists from Sri Lanka and around the world. The temple's history dates back to ancient times, and it has undergone various constructions and renovations. It has witnessed the rise and fall of different kingdoms in Sri Lanka. The Esala Perahera, held annually, is a grand festival associated with the Temple of the Tooth. It involves a vibrant procession with traditional dancers, drummers, and adorned elephants. The Temple of the Tooth is centrally located in Kandy and is easily accessible for visitors. Visitors are required to dress modestly when entering the temple premises. It's advisable to check the opening hours and any specific guidelines before planning a visit. The Temple of the Tooth is not only a religious site but also a cultural and historical landmark that showcases the rich heritage of Sri Lanka. It holds deep spiritual significance and is an important destination for those interested in Buddhist culture and history.
Colombo is the largest city of Sri Lanka by population. It is the financial centre of the island and a popular tourist destination.Colombo is a busy and vibrant place with a mixture of modern life and colonial buildings and ruins.It was the legislative capital of Sri Lanka until 1982. Due to its large harbour and its strategic position along the East-West sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders 2,000 years ago. It was made the capital of the island when Sri Lanka was ceded to the British Empire in 1815 and its status as capital was retained when the nation became independent in 1948. In 1978, when administrative functions were moved to Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, Colombo was designated as the commercial capital of Sri Lanka.
Nuwara Eliya (Sinhalese: නුවර එළිය [nuwərə ɛlijə]; Tamil: நுவரெலியா) is a city in the hill country of the Central Province, Sri Lanka. Its name means "city on the plain (table land)" or "city of light". The city is the administrative capital of Nuwara Eliya District, with a picturesque landscape and temperate climate. It is at an altitude of 1,868 m (6,128 ft) and is considered to be the most important location for tea production in Sri Lanka. The city is overlooked by Pidurutalagala, the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka. Nuwara Eliya is known for its temperate, cool climate – the coolest area in Sri Lanka.
Bentota is a tourist attraction, with a local airport (Bentota River Airport) and a handful of world-class hotels. It is a destination for watersports. Bentota also delivers an ancient art of healing called Ayurveda. Bentota is famous for its toddy production, an alcoholic beverage made out of coconut nectar. It also has a turtle hatchery, located on Induruwa beach. The lagoons, the estuaries, the calm weather, all will scintillate you like never before. Bentota is also famous for its dazzling marine life and you will love the atmosphere once you step in. A serene beauty, especially for the newly wedded couples, this place is speechless and its exquisiteness cannot be expressed in words, but only felt. Benthota is a historical place described in ancient messenger poems (sandeśa kāvya). The Galapatha Viharaya is one of a cluster of five ancient temples in the region.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya are about 5.5 km to the west of the city of Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It attracts 2 million visitors annually. It is near the Mahaweli River (the longest in Sri Lanka). It is renowned for its collection of orchids. The garden includes more than 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palm trees.Attached to it is the National Herbarium of Sri Lanka. The total area of the botanical garden is 147 acres (0.59 km2), at 460 meters above sea level, and with a 200-day annual rainfall. It is managed by the Division of National Botanic Gardens of the Department of Agriculture. Thereafter, the groundwork for a botanical garden was formed by Alexandar Moon in 1821. He used the garden for coffee and cinnamon plants. The Botanical Garden at Peradeniya was formally established in 1843 with plants brought from Kew Garden, Slave Island, Colombo, and the Kalutara Garden in Kalutara. The Royal Botanic Garden, Peradeniya was made more independent and expanded under George Gardner as superintendent in 1844. On Gardner's death in 1849 George Henry Kendrick Thwaites became superintendent. He served until he resigned in 1879, when he was succeeded by Henry Trimen, who served until 1895. There are avenues in the River Drive such as Cook's Pine Avenue, Palmyra Palm Avenue, Double Coconut Avenue, Cabbage Avenue, and Royal Palm Avenue. The classical Avenue of Palms is in this Garden. One item with a significant history is the Cannonball Tree planted by King George V of the United Kingdom and Queen Mary in 1901. It is often laden with fruit, which are thought to resemble cannonballs.
The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a well-known conservation and rehabilitation center for elephants, located in Kegalle within the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. The primary purpose of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is to care for and rehabilitate orphaned and injured elephants. The facility plays a crucial role in the conservation of elephants in Sri Lanka. Pinnawala is home to a nursery where visitors can witness the care and nurturing of baby elephants. Visitors can observe daily activities such as bathing and feeding, which are scheduled at specific times. The highlight is the herd of elephants taking a bath in the nearby river. The orphanage is involved in conservation efforts to protect and preserve Sri Lanka's elephant population. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation. It was created to provide a home for orphaned elephants and those injured in the wild. The orphanage has contributed significantly to the conservation of elephants and the awareness of their conservation needs. It has also become a popular tourist attraction. Tourists and locals alike visit Pinnawala to observe elephants up close and to learn about their conservation. The sight of elephants bathing in the river is a major attraction. Pinnawala is easily accessible by road and is a popular stop for those traveling between Colombo and Kandy. It's advisable to check the opening hours and feeding/bathing times before planning a visit. Visitors are encouraged to follow ethical guidelines and respect the well-being of the elephants. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage serves as both a conservation center and an educational facility, allowing visitors to appreciate and learn about the majestic elephants of Sri Lanka while supporting conservation efforts.
Lake Gregory is a picturesque artificial lake located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, a popular hill station in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Lake Gregory is a man-made reservoir that was created during the British colonial period. It was named after Sir William Gregory, the then Governor of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). Surrounded by lush greenery and hills, the lake offers a scenic and tranquil setting. The lake and its surroundings serve as a popular recreational area for both locals and tourists. Visitors often come here to enjoy the peaceful environment and engage in various activities. Boating is a common activity on Lake Gregory. Pedal boats and rowing boats are available for rent, allowing visitors to explore the lake at their own pace. The lake area features well-maintained walkways and gardens, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. The lake and its surroundings attract various bird species, making it a spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Lake Gregory and its vicinity are sometimes used for events and festivals, adding to the vibrancy of the area. Lake Gregory is situated within the town of Nuwara Eliya, making it easily accessible to both residents and tourists. Nuwara Eliya is known for its cool climate due to its elevation, and the area around Lake Gregory benefits from this pleasant weather. The lake can be visited throughout the year, but the weather is particularly cool and refreshing, making it a popular destination, especially during the dry season. Lake Gregory is not only a serene waterbody but also a central part of the charming landscape of Nuwara Eliya. It provides a peaceful escape for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty in the highlands of Sri Lanka.
Madu Ganga is a complex wetland ecosystem that includes the Madu River, located in the Balapitiya area of the Galle District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka. The Madu Ganga estuary is known for its mangrove forests, interconnected islands, and diverse biodiversity. Visitors often take boat trips or river safaris along the Madu Ganga to explore the natural beauty and wildlife. The river is surrounded by mangrove forests, which play a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing habitats for various species of birds, fish, and other wildlife. Along the Madu River, there are traditional cinnamon plantations, and visitors can learn about the process of harvesting and processing cinnamon. Boat tours are a popular way to explore the Madu Ganga, offering a peaceful and scenic journey through the mangroves. The area is rich in birdlife, making it a favorable location for birdwatching enthusiasts. Some tours include visits to cinnamon farms, where tourists can witness the traditional methods of cinnamon production. The river is dotted with small islands, and some boat tours may include stops at these islands. Due to the ecological importance of the Madu Ganga estuary, there are efforts to conserve and protect its biodiversity and natural habitats. Madu Ganga is a popular tourist attraction for those seeking a tranquil and nature-filled experience in the southern part of Sri Lanka. It is accessible from various points in the Southern Province, particularly from locations near Balapitiya.
Hakgala Botanical Garden is a renowned botanical garden located in the town of Hakgala near Nuwara Eliya in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Hakgala Botanical Garden is one of the five botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. It spans an area of about 28 hectares. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,450 meters (4,760 feet) above sea level, the garden enjoys a cool climate. The garden is known for its diverse collection of flora, including both indigenous and exotic plant species. It is particularly famous for its orchids. Hakgala features a beautiful rose garden with various types and colors of roses. Due to its high altitude, the garden is suitable for a range of temperate zone plants. There is a section in the garden designed in a Japanese style, adding to the garden's aesthetic appeal. The garden is located near the Hakgala Peak, which is the second-highest mountain in Sri Lanka. Established in the 19th century during British colonial rule in Sri Lanka. Hakgala is accessible by road and is a popular destination for tourists visiting Nuwara Eliya. Visitors may need to pay an entry fee to access the botanical garden. The garden usually has specific opening hours for visitors. The area surrounding Hakgala is known for its picturesque landscapes, contributing to the overall appeal of the botanical garden. Hakgala Botanical Garden is not only a site of botanical interest but also a place of natural beauty, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists exploring the central highlands of Sri Lanka.
The National Museum of Galle is situated in Church Street in Galle Fort. It is located in the oldest remaining Dutch building in Galle Fort. The building dates back to 1656 but the museum opened in 1986 by the Department of National Museums. The museum exhibits various collections from the Portuguese, Dutch and British eras. It consists of three sections. The first gallery has exhibits related to turtle shell jewelry manufacturing, Beeralu lace weaving, cottage industry and traditional wooden mask carving. The second gallery has exhibits related to the Dutch period such as furniture and weaponry. The third gallery is known as the “Sri Lanka China Friendship Gallery” and is dedicated to the archeologically and historically important relations between Sri Lanka and China. Representing the cultural heritage of the Southern province, as well as Galle with the colonial eras of Portuguese, Dutch & British. As well as a longterm relationship between China & Sri Lanka. There are 3 Galleries at the museum & the first gallery representing the endemic rural industries in the Galle area.which are Ebony wood carvings, Ivory carvings & Jewelry,Turtle shell industrial instruments & Turtle shell jewellery & stuff, Beautiful Masks & Paintings, Lace & Brass artefacts. The second gallery shows you all the colonial-era artefacts, relics as well as weapons. Like Portuguese, Dutch, British, Indian, Malay & Sinhalese Swords, Guns, Canon balls, Gun powder holders, ancient water clocks, A massive scale that has been used by a local family to export heavy ebony wood carved elephants, massive vessels carrying chair of a local Buddhist monk, dutch period VOC coins, a 1st stone, Kandyan era eve tiles & some dutch ceramic artefacts.The last Gallery is about the long term relationship between China & Sri Lanka. Where you can see some ancient Chinese coins that has been found in excavations around Sri Lanka as well as two big ceramic lions which are found from an excavation, then a replica of a triangular stone inscription which has been established in Galle by the Chinese Royal Navy Admiral "Zen-Hai" on his 2nd journey to Sri Lanka, describing a massive donation to a local temple to get blessings from the Lord "Vishnu",
Sri Lanka, officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is an island country located in South Asia. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (official administrative capital), Colombo (commercial capital and largest city). Sri Lanka is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, southeast of India. It covers an area of approximately 65,610 square kilometers. The population is ethnically diverse, with Sinhalese, Tamils, Moors, and various other communities. Sinhala and Tamil is the language. English is widely used for official and administrative purposes. Predominantly Buddhism, with significant Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities. Agriculture, manufacturing, and services are the commercial goods. Tea, textiles and apparel, spices, rubber, precious stones. Sri Lanka has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Buddhism, Hinduism, and various other traditions. The country is home to ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa with historical and archaeological significance. An ancient rock fortress with historic and artistic significance. Sri Lanka is known for its scenic landscapes, wildlife, beaches, ancient ruins, and cultural sites. Several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Sacred City of Kandy, Sigiriya, and the Old Town of Galle. Diverse landscapes, including mountains, plains, and coastal areas. Sri Lanka is rich in biodiversity with a variety of flora and fauna. Sri Lanka experienced a civil conflict that lasted for several decades. The conflict officially ended in 2009.