Experience adventures and journeys to places unlike elsewhere in the world.
Sri Dalada Maligawa
The world-famous Sri Dalada Maligawa, or the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, as it is also known, attracts Buddhist pilgrims and visitors from all over the island and the world. The majestic, historic landmark is a place of worship for Buddhists and a remarkable place to visit for anyone interested in learning about its history, while admiring the ancient art and architecture. It houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, which was brought into the island by an Indian prince and princess during the 4th century AD. The annual parade festival known as the Esala Perahera, held in July and August takes ancient relic out on the streets, encased in seven golden caskets, for the public to view and worship. The festive procession parades through the city for a period of ten days. The temple is also within close proximity to the Kandy town, Kandy Lake and other landmarks such as the Bahiravakanda Buddha statue, where the entire town of Kandy can be seen from the giant structure.
The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Pay a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage for a rare sight. Established in 1975, the orphanage cares for abandoned, injured and displaced elephants in surroundings that mirror their natural habitat. Visitors can also witness the elephants bathing in the nearby river and enjoy their time in the cool water.
Peradeniya Botanical Garden
The 147-acre Peradeniya Botanical Gardens was established in 1843. Still a popular place of interest for locals and tourists alike, the manicured gardens boast plants and flowers that are ornamental, medicinal and those that can be used as spices. The fruit bats, an array of colourful birds and wide pathways are a treat for anyone who visits, to experience a natural escape in the hill capital.
Gadaladeniya Temple
Just 12.5 km from Kandy town, the Gadaladeniya Temple is the largest rock temple in Sri Lanka. Built in 1344 AD by King Bhuvanekabahu XI, the temple has a central and secondary shrine that consists of unique Buddha statues. The King commissioned the Indian architect Ganesvarachari to build temple, hence many of the designs and artistic styles contain Indian features and characteristics.
Embekka Viharaya
Famous for its wooden carvings, dancing hall and drummers’ hall, the Embekka Temple is located on the outskirts of Kandy. The carvings, featured on the pillars of the central hall, depict ancient scenes of various subjects including entwined swans, double-headed eagles, entwined ropes, a soldier fighting on horseback, female dancers, and the unusual bird-human hybrid, elephant-bull hybrid, and elephant-lion hybrid. Built by King Bhuvanekabahu III, the temple is s dedicated to the deity of Katharagama.
Lankatilaka Temple
Ancient paintings, architecture and views of the mountains below, make the Lankathilaka Temple a famous place of worship for Buddhists and attraction to visitors who want to learn about the ancient temples of Sri Lanka. Built on a rock by King Bhuvanekabahu IX, the temple features traditional Kandyan art, and also has a 'devala' dedicated to the gods Vishnu, Saman, Vibhishana, Ganapathi, Skandhakumara, and Kumara Bandara.
KCC Shopping Mall
Find the best local and international brands under one roof, whether it’s clothes, perfumes, electronics, handicrafts, gems and jewellery and more. Complete with an extensive international food court, movie threatres, a gaming arcade, and banking facilities, everything you need is at Kandy City Centre.
Activities
Enjoy the best of Kandy town and learn about the rich history of the ancient kingdom, as well as the country itself. Take in peaceful morning or evening walks around the lake and Kandy town, enjoy an evening cultural show with traditional dancing, music and art, or learn about the gem trade at the Gem Museum. There's a host of activities waiting for you, based on local arts and culture.