Culture and Heritage Excursions
You certainly have to visit the following culturally and historically significant sites when you are in Kandy. The Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha) is probably the main attraction in Kandy. Once you finish your tour of the temple, you can check out the St. Paul’s Church and the British Garrison Cemetery located near the temple. Both these sites are remnants of the city’s colonial past. The Kandy National Museum is also located close to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, and houses over 5,000 historic and cultural artefacts.
A journey of about 20 minutes will take you to the famous trio of temples – Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka Viharaya. They are located in close proximity to each other, so you can see them all in one excursion.
Head over to the Kandy Art Association in the evening, where you can catch an entertaining daily cultural show of traditional music and dance. You would need to purchase a ticket to watch this show.
Stroll around the Kandy Lake
The Kandy Lake is one of the most scenic places in the city and a stroll around it can be a rather enjoyable experience. Take note that it is best to avoid walking here alone at night.
Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya
These gardens are well maintained and contain beautiful flower beds, giant old trees and lovely tree lined pathways. An excursion here is definitely something to consider.
Spice Garden Tour
There is a wonderful spice garden – New Ranweli Spice Garden – located close to the botanical gardens that is worth a visit. Learn about the various spices that grow in Sri Lanka and maybe even stock up on some cinnamon and pepper for your spice rack back at home.
Enter a Whimsical World at Helga’s Folly
Helga’s Folly is a whimsical, eccentric property that serves as a lodge and restaurant. It is a truly unique place; unlike anything you will see anywhere else in the country. You can walk about the place and check out the interesting art and curios that fill its rooms. You do need to pay an entrance fee, or purchase a beverage from the restaurant in order to wander around. Helga’s Folly is located about 3km away from the city center.
Shopping and Dining
The Kandy City Centre is the most popular mall in the city and has many local as well as some international brands, if you want to do some shopping. The heart of the city is a rather crowded, but interesting place to explore. You can grab a bite at one of the many bakeries and restaurants in the city or head over to the colonial era Queen’s Hotel for a bit of history to accompany your meal.
