Kandy

THE HEART OF SRI LANKA

The ancient capital of Sri Lanka is picturesquely situated in a valley surrounded by wooded hills and is one of the most beautiful towns in Asia.

A lake constructed by the Kandyan Kings provides a focal point for the Old Royal Palace and the Temple Of The Buddha’s Tooth.

Kandy’s environs contain many old temples in idyllic rural surroundings. It is also the centre of Sri Lanka’s Arts And Crafts with many shops selling quality handicrafts and jewellery.

The Kandy Perahera Festival during July/August of each year is one of the world’s great pageants.

THE HEART OF SRI LANKA

One of the holiest temples in Buddhism enshrines the Buddha’s Tooth Relic. A visit in time for its evening ‘pooja’ ritual at around 6:30 pm is one of the most atmospheric experiences you can have in Sri Lanka. Don’t forget to visit the exquisite Hindu shrines in the outer enclosure that are a haven of tranquility just a short step away from the main temple.

THE PINNAWELA ELEPHANT ORPHANAGE

Sri Lanka’s most visited tourist attraction has the world’s largest group of captive Elephants.

It is now home to more than 70 injured and abandoned animals including some beautiful baby calves. During the day, the whole herd is bathed in the adjoining Maha Oya River.

Those who arrive early can catch a glimpse of baby calves being bottle fed. Great fun for adults and children alike.

The Millennium Elephant Foundation nearby has 7 domestic elephants where you may go on elephant rides, feed the elephants or even have an elephant shower!

PERADEDIYA GARDENS

One of the world’s premier tropical plant collections, magnificently laid out over 60ha including an Orchid House containing more than 300 flowering varieties.

A walk through the tropical foliage and palm lined avenues planted during British colonial times is a perfect way to spend an afternoon at Kandy.

There are several ‘plant world records’ held by Peradeniya. The riverside Bamboo groves are in the Guinness Book Of Records as the fastest growing recorded plants in the World! There is also a huge tree covering a surface area of 3000 square feet!

THE KANDY PERAHERA (ELEPHANT PAGEANT)

One Of The World’s Great Festivals

A 10 day spectacle of over 100 elephants, drummers and dancers where a mighty tusker carrying the Buddha’s Tooth Relic casket is paraded around the streets of Kandy at night.

The whole spectacle culminates with the final Randoli Perahera during the July/ August Full Moon. The exact dates vary from year to year.

During this time the city of Kandy takes on a carnival atmosphere and vast crowds throng the narrow streets on the procession route. Grandstand Seats are available for visitors to watch the ceremonies in comfort.

THE 3 ANCIENT TEMPLES AROUND KANDY

A half day excursion called the ‘Temple Loop’ is a great way to sample the lovely rural surroundings of the Hill Capital.

The Gadaladeniya Temple (14th C) is located on a beautiful hilltop setting. The Lankatilaka Temple (14th C) contains an image house with ancient frescoes. The Hindu Embekke Temple is a famous for its exquisite carved wooden pillars. All are located in beautiful hamlets and villages.

Anyone interested in Buddhist Art should not miss the Degaldoruwa Temple, whose image houses contain the finest Buddhist murals in the island.

ARTS AND CRAFTS AT KANDY

Take a stroll through Kandy’s markets and bazaars, which are famous for handicrafts produced in local villages. Craftsmen can be seen working on wood, brasswork and lacquer-ware.

There are several well-known shops selling jewellery, precious stones and up-market furniture.

Popular Kandyan Dance Performances and Cultural Shows are held every evening at the Kandyan Arts Association.