Nestled in Sri Lanka's misty central highlands, Kandy invites travelers on a journey through time, culture, and natural beauty. As the last royal capital of the island, Kandy stands as a testament to resilience, having resisted centuries of foreign invasions. Steeped in history, the city was once the heart of the Kandyan Kingdom and home to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses a sacred relic of Buddha. This spiritual landmark draws pilgrims from across the world, making Kandy a vibrant hub of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
But Kandy is more than just a historical treasure. Surrounded by lush tea plantations, serene lakes, and rolling mountains, it offers a captivating blend of nature’s tranquility and rich heritage. Whether you're wandering through its colonial-era streets, marveling at ancient temples, or soaking in panoramic views, Kandy promises an experience that’s both peaceful and profound. With its UNESCO World Heritage status, it’s a must-visit for those eager to explore Sri Lanka’s soul—a place where history, spirituality, and natural beauty converge in perfect harmony.
Local Delicacies
In Kandy, Sri Lanka, the culinary experience is a celebration of vibrant spices, coconut richness, and local traditions. A must-try is Kandyan Curry & Rice, where each plate is a colorful variety of curries served with Sri Lankan red rice, featuring polos curry (young jackfruit) for its rich, meaty texture that absorbs fragrant spices. Kiri Bath or milk rice is a beloved dish made by cooking rice in creamy coconut milk, often served with lunu miris—a fiery chili-onion sambol that adds a spicy contrast to the soft, savory rice.
For a taste of Sri Lanka’s traditional beverages, toddy (palm wine) is an authentic experience. This mildly fermented drink, collected fresh each morning from palm trees, is slightly sweet and fizzy, capturing the island’s tropical essence. If unavailable, arrack, a distilled palm sap liquor, is a popular alternative.
Each of these dishes and drinks reflects Kandy’s deep-rooted flavors and customs, offering a truly immersive experience in Sri Lankan cuisine.
Local Customs, Traditions, and Must-See Events
Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, is steeped in tradition and hosts some of the island’s most cherished celebrations. The Esala Perahera, held each summer, is Kandy’s most spectacular festival. For ten days, the city is filled with music, dance, and color as a grand procession of drummers, fire dancers, and ornately decorated elephants parade through the streets. At its center is the revered Tooth Relic of the Buddha, housed in the Temple of the Sacred Tooth—a site of immense spiritual importance for Buddhists worldwide.
Another unique custom is Kandy’s daily temple rituals, where locals offer flowers, light oil lamps, and chant prayers, creating an atmosphere of reverence and tranquility. Visitors can also experience Vesak, a national celebration of Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death, when Kandy glows with lanterns, lights, and beautiful displays.
These traditions offer a vivid glimpse into Kandy’s enduring Buddhist values, artistry, and devotion, making it a compelling destination for those seeking cultural depth and authentic experiences.
