 The history of Kandy and it's townscape has been in a state of
flux from the beginning of British rule, particularly after the 1818 rebellion.
But with its rich heritage of living monuments, Kandy continues to be the
cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Today, Kandy city is well known for its scenic
beauty, favorable climate, cultural values and historical significance.
How To Reach Kandy
Air: The nearest international airport is at Colombo, 116 kms away.
Sea: Colombo is also the International sea port.
Road and Rail: There are excellent rail and road services which connect
Kandy to other parts of the country.
Car hire: This is available from several international agencies.
Food for the Eyes and Soul
Dalada Maligawa: With its Sinhalese style architecture, this is
undoubtedly the greatest attraction of the city. Dalada Maligawa is one of the
most sacred places for the Buddhists all over the world. The most prominent
feature of the building is the Octagon, the place from where the king addressed
the public on important occasions.
Maha Vishnu Devale: Located towards the northwest of the palace, this is
a shrine built in the 18th century and dedicated to Lord Vishnu of the Hindu
Pantheon, but also worshiped by the Buddhists.
Natha Devale: Dating back to the 14th century, this is oldest shrine in
Kandy and one of the best examples showing the influence of South Indian
architecture.
Gangarama Vihara: 2 kilometers to the east of the Palace complex, this is
an image house built around a ten metre high standing Buddha statue, carved out
of an in-situ natural rock.
Hindalgara Vihara: Situated amidst the serene ambience of a location
covered with long green trees and bounded by a cascading stream flowing through
the forest, this is an ancient temple belonging to the Malwatta Vihara. It is at
the Peradeniya - Galaha road.
Lankatilaka Vihara: This image house is considered to be one of the best
examples of extant traditional Sinhalese temple architecture.
Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya: Surrounded by the river Mahaweli on
three sides and connected to the opposite bank by a suspension bridge, this is
the best garden in the country. The garden is a paradigm of the wealth and
beauty of the tropics with over hundred varieties of palm trees, wondrous arches
of glossy foliage, lovely fernery and orchid houses with rare blossoms and spice
trees in groves. It is located at Peradeniya.
The Lake: Located at the center of the city, the lake with a traditional
artistic feature is attractive and keeps the environment cool- a prime reason
for the city being considered as one of the best tourist resorts of the island.
The banks of the lake is dotted with a variety of trees of which some are
historic. Naturally, the narrow path along the Lake is a popular hang out zone
for the city dwellers, particularly the lovers.
Climate
The annual average rainfall is around 1905-3175 mm. The main rainfall season is
South-west monsoon. During the Inter-monsoonal seasons, thunderstorm showers are
frequent in the central island. Kandy has an average temperature level between a
range of 21-26 C.
Famous Festivals
Esala Perahera: This is the world famous pageant of elephants and light which
takes place every year in August. The Tooth Relic of the Buddha (widely believed
to be an actual tooth of the Lord Buddha) is carried in a sacred casket around
the city during this ritual. Only a specially trained tusker is entrusted with
the task of carrying the Tooth Relic. Taking place once a year in Kandy, it is
held for two weeks in July or August - the actual dates depending on the phases
of the moon.
Local Transport: There are metered taxis with yellow top and red and
white plates. Drivers expect a 10 percent tip.
Shopping
Best Bargains: Souvenirs in wood, copper, silver, brass, ebony, and bronze.
Ceramics, lacquer work, handlooms, batiks, jewellery and rush and reed-ware can
also be purchased.
Accomodation
Tourists have a wide choice of accomodation ranging from hotels and inns to
guest houses and private homes.
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