Kandy

• Location: Kandy is situated in the central hills of Sri Lanka, approximately 115 kilometers (71 miles) northeast of Colombo, the capital city.

• Elevation: It lies at an elevation of 465 meters (1,526 feet) above sea level, surrounded by lush mountains and tea plantations.

• Climate: Kandy has a tropical rainforest climate with relatively cool temperatures due to its elevation. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

• Population: As of recent estimates, Kandy has a population of around 160,000 people.

2. Historical Significance

• Ancient Capital: Kandy was the last capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Colonial Resistance: The city resisted Portuguese and Dutch colonial rule for nearly 300 years before falling to the British in 1815.

• Cultural Hub: Kandy is the cultural and religious heart of Sri Lanka, preserving traditions, arts, and crafts.

3. Key Attractions

Religious Sites

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa):

  • The most sacred Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, housing the relic of the Buddha's tooth.

  • A major pilgrimage site and a focal point of the annual Esala Perahera festival.

• Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue:

  • A giant white Buddha statue overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of Kandy.

• Kandy Four Devales:

  • Four Hindu temples dedicated to the guardian deities of Kandy, located near the Temple of the Tooth.

Cultural and Historical Sites

• Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake):

  • A man-made lake built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, offering a peaceful stroll in the city center.

• Royal Palace of Kandy:

  • The former residence of the Kandyan kings, now part of the Temple of the Tooth complex.

• Udawatta Kele Sanctuary:

  • A forest reserve near the city center, ideal for nature walks and birdwatching.

Natural Attractions

• Peradeniya Botanical Gardens:

  • One of the finest botanical gardens in Asia, spanning 147 acres with a vast collection of plants, orchids, and trees.

• Hanthana Mountain Range:

  • A popular spot for hiking and trekking, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

• Victoria Golf Club:

  • A scenic golf course located in Digana, about 30 minutes from Kandy.

Festivals

• Esala Perahera:

  • A grand annual festival held in July or August, featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and decorated elephants parading through the streets.

4. Economy and Lifestyle

• Agriculture: The surrounding areas are known for tea, rubber, and spice plantations.

• Tourism: Kandy is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors for its cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

• Education: The city is home to the University of Peradeniya, one of the most prestigious universities in Sri Lanka.

5. Transportation

• By Road: Kandy is well-connected by road to Colombo, Nuwara Eliya, and other major cities.

• By Train: The Kandy railway station is a key hub, offering scenic train rides, especially the Colombo-Kandy route.

• By Air: The nearest international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, about 3-4 hours away by road.

6. Food and Cuisine

• Kandy offers a mix of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and international dishes. Must-try local foods include:

  • Kandy Kottu Roti: A popular street food.

  • Traditional Rice and Curry: Served with a variety of curries and sambols.

  • Sweetmeats: Such as kavum, kokis, and aluwa.

7. Accommodation

• Kandy offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels and boutique guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular options include:

  • Theva Residency: A luxury boutique hotel with stunning views.

  • Earl's Regency: A mid-range hotel with excellent facilities.

  • Clock Inn Kandy: A budget-friendly hostel for backpackers.

8. Tips for Visitors

• Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (January to April) is ideal for sightseeing.

• Local Etiquette: Remove shoes before entering temples and always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Kandy is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or spiritual seeker, Kandy has something for everyone.