Kandy, nestled in Sri Lanka’s hill country, is a cultural capital and spiritual sanctuary. Home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and the annual Esala Perahera procession, the city exudes tradition, elegance and devotion. Its lake, botanical gardens and colonial charm make it a graceful balance of heritage, nature and sacred legacy.

• Temple houses Buddha’s sacred tooth
• Esala Perahera cultural parade spectacle
• Scenic Kandy Lake in town centre
• UNESCO World Heritage Site status
• Royal Palace and museum complex
• Close to Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

Set among misty hills, Kandy is a city where Sri Lanka’s spiritual and royal heritage converge. At its heart lies the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, believed to house a tooth of the Buddha himself. Pilgrims from across the world come to pay homage here, lighting incense and lotus flowers in an atmosphere of reverence.

Beyond its spiritual significance, Kandy also offers rich cultural experiences. Every July or August, the city bursts into life with the Esala Perahera, a dazzling parade of elephants, dancers, drummers and fire twirlers, held in honour of the Tooth Relic. It’s one of Asia’s oldest and grandest festivals.

The city’s beauty is further enhanced by the serene Kandy Lake, colonial era buildings and the lush Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, home to over 4,000 plant species. Whether exploring the Royal Palace, visiting craft workshops or sipping tea in a hillside café, Kandy offers a graceful blend of tradition, elegance and living culture.

Sri Lanka Tailor-Made recommends Kandy for those seeking a deeper understanding of the island’s soul, a place to reflect, celebrate and connect with centuries of heritage beneath the island’s green canopy.