Kandy sits in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, encircled by lush hills and tea plantations. It was the last royal capital of Sri Lanka and remains its cultural and spiritual heart.

At its core lies the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses a holy relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha — a pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. The site, together with the Royal Palace complex, is part of the Sacred City of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kandy Lake, built by a former king, provides a pleasing contrast to the city’s bustle. Wander through the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, located just a few kilometers beyond the city — home to orchids, palms, and enormous tropical trees.

Cultural performances animate the evening hours — traditional Kandyan drumming, dance, and storytelling evoke Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. If you time your visit to July or August, you may catch the spectacular Esala Perahera festival, when the city pulses with processions of dancers, drummers, and elaborately adorned elephants.

Overall, Kandy offers travelers a deeply spiritual and scenic experience — an ideal blend of tradition, nature, and cultural immersion.