Kandy - A City with Sacred Buddhist Site in Sri Lanka
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Sri Lanka is not all about catching waves. Up in the misty hills, Kandy throws a cultural party and is famous for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a super important Buddhist site. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Here's the lowdown on why Kandy should be your next adventure.
Best time to visit: From Jan-To-Mar
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How to Reach Kandy
- Kandy is about a 3-and-a-half-hour drive from Colombo, Sri Lanka's capital city. Trains are comfy and offer scenic mountain views. Buses are another option, and taxis are always waiting if you're feeling fancy. You also rent a car and make a road trip out of it, stopping at cool sights along the way.
- Exploring Kandy
- Kandy's pretty walkable, especially the area around Kandy Lake. Comfortable shoes are a must, and there are tons of interesting streets and hidden alleys to discover. If you get tired, then hop on a tuk tuk, those colorful three-wheeled rides that are a fun way to get around. Kandy Lake, a gorgeous man-made lake in the city center, is the perfect spot to relax.
- Food to Try in Kandy
- Kandy serves up the same delicious Sri Lankan food. Rice and curry are king here, with options like spicy fish curry, chicken curry, and lentil curry. All these curries come with rice and chutneys for an extra kick. For a lighter option grab kottu roti, a yummy street food made with chopped flatbread and veggies. Seafood lovers can rejoice too. Fresh fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and rambutans are perfect for a cool snack.
Accommodation Options in Kandy
- Kandy has hotels for all styles and budgets. Here are some of the best hotels in Kandy:
- Fancy Hotels: The Kandy House or Hotel Hantana will blow your mind with amazing service, swanky amenities, and infinity pools overlooking the scenery.
- Boutique Stays: The Amaya Kandy or Villa Rosa offers a unique stay with a blend of modern design and Sri Lankan touches.
- Budget-friendly options: Guesthouses and budget hotels are everywhere around Kandy Lake and the city center, offering clean comfy rooms that won't break the bank.
- Top Tourist Attractions in Kandy
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the heart of Kandy. It houses a super important relic – a tooth of the Buddha! The daily rituals here are a fascinating look into Buddhist culture.
- Royal Palace of Kandy: Check out the old stomping ground of Sri Lankan kings, with its grand architecture and cool displays.
- Bahiravapaya Temple: This Hindu temple in Shri Lanka, with its impressive architecture and colorful statues, is a must-see for anyone interested in Hinduism.
- Peradeniya Botanical Gardens: Explore this massive botanical garden, home to a crazy collection of plants, trees, and flowers from all over the world.
Events and Festivals to Attend in Kandy
- Esala Perahera (July/August): Witness this crazy cool Kandy festival – a giant parade with elephants, dancers, drummers, and even fire-throwers.
- Cultural Dance Show: Immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture with a vibrant performance of traditional dances and music.
- The Bottom Line
- So, next time you're in Sri Lanka, let this charming city surprise you with its rich culture, stunning scenery, and of course, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a sight that will stay with you long after you leave.
