Kandy – The Sacred Hill Capital of Sri Lanka

Surrounded by emerald-green hills and shimmering lakes, Kandy is the cultural heartbeat of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage City. Once the last royal capital of the island, Kandy remains the guardian of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions, royal heritage, and timeless artistry.

At its heart lies the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the world. Housing a relic of the Buddha’s tooth, the temple is a place of deep devotion, golden splendor, and daily rituals where monks chant ancient prayers, filling the air with serenity and spirituality.

Visitors can also immerse in the Royal Palace of Kandy, once home to the last Kandyan kings, and explore the National Museum, which preserves priceless artifacts from Sri Lanka’s royal past.

Beyond its spiritual treasures, Kandy enchants with its natural beauty and cultural experiences. Stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, famous for their exotic orchids and sprawling landscapes. Walk around the tranquil Kandy Lake, built by the last king, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, which towers majestically over the skyline.

Each year, Kandy comes alive with the Esala Perahera Festival, a grand procession of elephants, dancers, drummers, and torch-bearers honoring the Sacred Tooth Relic—an unforgettable cultural spectacle.

For luxury travelers, Kandy offers more than heritage—it is a gateway to authentic experiences, boutique hotels, wellness retreats, and curated cultural encounters. Whether you are seeking spiritual reflection, cultural exploration, or the charm of a royal city surrounded by nature, Kandy remains an essential destination in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle and hill country journeys.

What to See in Kandy

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) – most sacred Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka


• Kandy Lake – scenic strolls and tranquil beauty


• Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya – world-renowned gardens with orchids, palms, and exotic plants


• Kandy Viewpoint & Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue – sweeping panoramic views


• Royal Palace Complex & National Museum – royal history and artifacts


• Kandy Esala Perahera Festival (July/August) – Sri Lanka’s grandest cultural procession