KandyThe sacred hill capital

Located in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country, Kandy is the cultural capital of the island and home to the Sri Dalada Maligawa — one of the most revered Buddhist shrines in the world. The temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, an object so venerated that it was once believed whoever held the relic held the right to rule the entire country.

The relic was smuggled into Sri Lanka in the 4th century by Princess Hemamali and her husband Prince Dantha, hidden in the princess's hair. Today the temple complex is an architectural marvel nested within the royal palace grounds of the former Kandyan Kingdom. Intricate wood carvings, painted ceilings, and a golden canopy donated by late President Ranasinghe Premadasa adorn the interior. Visitors can experience the rhythmic beating of drums and blowing of conch shells during the daily Thevava ceremonies held at dawn, noon, and dusk — moments when the inner chamber is opened and devotees catch a glimpse of the golden casket enclosing the relic.

Every summer, the temple becomes the epicentre of the Esala Perahera, a spectacular ten-day festival. The relic casket is paraded through the streets atop a majestic, illuminated elephant, accompanied by thousands of traditional dancers, fire-breathers, and drummers. The procession is widely considered one of the grandest cultural spectacles in all of Asia.

The tranquil atmosphere of the temple grounds is complemented by the adjacent Kandy Lake, built by the last king of Sri Lanka, Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. Surrounded by lush hills and colonial-era architecture, Kandy offers a perfect blend of spiritual depth, cultural richness, and natural beauty that makes it an essential stop on any Sri Lankan itinerary.

Top highlights

1. Sri Dalada Maligawa — Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
2. Esala Perahera — ten-day summer festival with elephants and dancers
3. Kandy Lake — serene walks beside the royal reservoir
4. Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya
5. Traditional Kandyan dance performances
6. Gateway to the scenic hill-country train routes

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic beside Kandy Lake.

Whether you spend a few days or a few weeks exploring Kandy, the destination has a way of making you feel like you have earned your rest. Let the beauty of Central Province work its magic, and you will leave with memories that stay vivid for a lifetime.