Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

This sacred Buddhist temple houses a tooth relic of the Buddha, making it one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka. Attend the daily puja (prayer) ceremonies, explore the museum, and admire the temple’s intricate architecture and beautiful surroundings.

Kandy Lake

A man-made lake in the heart of Kandy was created by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1807. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, take a boat ride, and appreciate the scenic views and the island in the middle of the lake.

Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

A giant Buddha statue is located on a hill overlooking Kandy. Climb up to the statue for panoramic views of the city and visit the temple at the base.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya

One of the finest botanical gardens in Asia, covering 147 acres and featuring a wide variety of flora. Explore the extensive collection of orchids, palms, medicinal plants, and the famous Giant Javan fig tree.

National Museum of Kandy

Housed in a former royal palace, the museum exhibits artifacts related to Kandy’s history and culture. Explore the collections of royal regalia, ancient weapons, and historical documents.

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

A forest reserve located on a hill ridge in Kandy, known for its biodiversity and historical significance. Hike the trails, enjoy bird watching, and visit the forest hermitage and ancient meditation caves.

Ceylon Tea Museum

Located in a former tea factory, the museum provides insights into the history and production of Ceylon tea. Take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process, view old machinery, and enjoy a cup of tea at the tea shop.

Kandy Viewpoint

A popular viewpoint offering a panoramic view of Kandy city and its surroundings. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best views and photography opportunities.

Knuckles Mountain Range

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rugged terrain, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning landscapes. Trekking, hiking, camping, and bird watching in this pristine natural environment.

Gem Museums and Shops

Kandy is known for its gemstones, particularly sapphires. Visit gem museums to learn about the mining and processing of gemstones and shop for jewelry and loose gems.

Ambuluwawa Tower

Ambuluwawa is a unique and picturesque destination in Sri Lanka, known for its biodiversity complex and multi-religious center. It is located near the town of Gampola in the Central Province. The main attraction is the striking Ambuluwawa Tower, a tall, spiraling structure that resembles a stupa. It is 48 meters high and offers breathtaking panoramic views.

Queens Hotel

Queen’s Hotel is a historic and iconic hotel located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is one of the oldest hotels in the country, with a rich history dating back to the colonial era. The hotel has a storied past, originally serving as a governor’s residence during the British colonial period before being converted into a hotel in the 19th century.

Visiting Matale Spice Garden

Visiting a spice garden in Matale is a popular activity for travelers exploring the Central Province of Sri Lanka. These spice gardens offer a unique opportunity to learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices that Sri Lanka is famous for. ( Cinnamon, Cardamom, Pepper, etc.)

Gadaladeniya Temple

Gadaladeniya Temple is situated about 15 kilometers from Kandy, near Pilimathalawa. Built-in 1344 by King Buwanekabahu IV, this Buddhist temple is known for its South Indian architectural influence.

Embekke Devalaya

Embekke Devalaya is located in Embekke, approximately 13 kilometers from Kandy. This site is dedicated to the worship of the deity Kataragama and was built during the reign of King Wickramabahu III in the 14th century. Embekke Devalaya is renowned for its intricate wooden carvings on the pillars and rafters, depicting dancers, musicians, animals, and mythical creatures.

Lankathilaka Viharaya

Lankathilaka Viharaya is located in Hiyarapitiya, near Daulagala, about 14 kilometers from Kandy. Built-in the 14th century during the reign of King Buwanekabahu IV, this temple combines elements of Buddhist and Hindu architecture.

Hanthana Mountain Range

Hanthana Mountain Range is a picturesque and historically significant mountain range located near Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is a popular destination for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. There are several trails of varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.

Hanthana Bird Park

Hanthana Bird Park is a captivating destination located near Kandy, Sri Lanka, that offers visitors the chance to experience a wide variety of bird species in a beautiful, natural setting. Hanthana Bird Park is situated in the Hanthana mountain range, approximately 6 kilometers from Kandy city center.

Giragama Tea Factory

Giragama Tea Factory is one of the oldest and most well-known tea factories in Sri Lanka. Located near Kandy, it offers visitors an in-depth look into the production of Ceylon Tea. The factory offers guided tours that take you through the entire tea production process. Knowledgeable guides explain each step in detail, from the plucking of tea leaves to the withering, rolling, fermenting, drying, and grading processes.

Kandyan Dance Performances

Traditional dance performances showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kandy. Attend a show at one of the cultural centers to experience vibrant dances, drumming, and colorful costumes.

Esala Perahera Festival

One of the grandest Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka is held annually in July or August. Witness the magnificent procession featuring decorated elephants, traditional dancers, fire performers, and the sacred tooth relic.