Kandy Day Tour

1. Temple of the Tooth Relic:

Begin your tour with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most significant religious sites in Sri Lanka. Located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, the temple houses a relic of the tooth of the Buddha. Explore the beautifully decorated temple complex, attend the traditional rituals held daily, and learn about the history and importance of the relic.

2. Kandy Lake:

After visiting the temple, take a leisurely stroll around the scenic Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk. The lake was created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, lush greenery, and the picturesque views of the surrounding hills and the Temple of the Tooth Relic.

3. Royal Botanical Gardens:

Next, head to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, located just outside Kandy. Covering 147 acres, these gardens are renowned for their extensive collection of orchids, tropical plants, and trees. Stroll through the well-maintained pathways, visit the Orchid House, and marvel at the giant Javan fig tree. The gardens also feature a picturesque suspension bridge and a variety of exotic bird species.

4. Kandy Market:

Immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Kandy Market. This bustling market is a great place to experience the vibrant atmosphere and buy fresh produce, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Interact with the friendly vendors and sample some local snacks and sweets.

5. Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue:

Visit the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue, a towering white statue of the Buddha located on a hilltop overlooking Kandy. The statue stands at 88 feet tall and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. You can climb up to the statue for a closer look and enjoy the breathtaking vistas.

6. Kandy Cultural Show:

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka by attending a Kandy Cultural Show. Held in the evenings, the show features traditional Kandyan dance performances, drumming, and fire-walking. The vibrant costumes, energetic performances, and rhythmic music provide an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s cultural traditions.

7. Gem Museum:

Learn about Sri Lanka’s renowned gemstone industry with a visit to a gem museum in Kandy. Discover the fascinating process of gemstone mining, cutting, and polishing. The museum exhibits a stunning collection of precious and semi-precious stones, including sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. You can also purchase certified gemstones and jewelry as souvenirs.

8. Udawatta Kele Sanctuary:

Explore the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, a historic forest reserve located on a hill ridge in Kandy. The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of birds, butterflies, and mammals. Enjoy a nature walk through the lush forest, visit the small meditation centers, and discover the ancient water ponds and rock shelters used by Buddhist monks.

9. Ceylon Tea Museum:

Visit the Ceylon Tea Museum, located in an old tea factory in Hantane, just a short drive from Kandy. The museum provides an in-depth look at the history and production of Ceylon tea. Explore the exhibits showcasing vintage tea-processing machinery, historical documents, and photographs. End your visit with a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea in the museum’s tea shop.

10. Degaldoruwa Temple:

End your Kandy Day Tour with a visit to the Degaldoruwa Temple, a rock temple located just outside the city. The temple, built in the 18th century, is famous for its beautiful Kandyan-era frescoes and intricate rock carvings. Explore the temple’s interior, adorned with vivid paintings depicting scenes from Buddhist scriptures and local folklore.

The Kandy Day Tour offers a perfect blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, providing an enriching experience of Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. From ancient temples and serene gardens to vibrant markets and traditional performances, Kandy has something for every traveler to enjoy.