Kaptivating Kandy: Uncover the Hidden Gems and Must-Do Activities in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Capital

Greetings, fellow travelers! Journeying Jack here, back with another exciting edition of Suitcase Stories. Today, we’re going to explore the vibrant and enchanting city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse culture, there’s no shortage of things to do Kandy. So, pack your bags and join me as we uncover the top things to do Kandy, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience in this magical city. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Kandy has something for everyone. So, let’s dive into the world of things to do Kandy and embark on an adventure of a lifetime!

Exploring the Sacred Temple of the Tooth

If you’re looking for things to do in Kandy, visiting the Sacred Temple of the Tooth should be at the top of your list. This temple is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka and is believed to house the tooth relic of the Buddha.

The temple is located in the heart of Kandy and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a lake. As you enter the temple, you’ll be struck by the intricate carvings and architecture. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.

One of the highlights of visiting the temple is the opportunity to witness the daily rituals and ceremonies. The temple is open to visitors from 5:30 am to 8:00 pm, and the best time to visit is during the morning or evening puja (prayer) ceremonies. During these ceremonies, you’ll hear the sound of drums and see the temple priests performing ancient rituals.

Make sure to dress appropriately when visiting the temple. You’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering the temple. Photography is allowed, but be respectful of the worshippers and avoid using flash.

In conclusion, exploring the Sacred Temple of the Tooth is one of the top things to do in Kandy. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture, and a must-visit for anyone traveling to the region.

Strolling Through the Royal Botanical Gardens

If you’re looking for things to do in Kandy, a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens is a must. Located just a short drive from the city center, the gardens are a peaceful oasis filled with exotic plants and flowers.

Things to do in Kandy: Explore the Gardens

The Royal Botanical Gardens cover an area of 147 acres and are home to over 4,000 species of plants. As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll see everything from towering palm trees to delicate orchids. Be sure to take your time and explore the different sections of the gardens, including the spice garden, the orchid house, and the giant Javan fig tree.

Things to do in Kandy: Learn About the History of the Gardens

The Royal Botanical Gardens were first established in 1821 by the British colonial government. Originally used as a research center for tropical crops, the gardens were later opened to the public in 1843. Today, the gardens are a popular tourist attraction and a great place to learn about the history of Kandy.

Things to do in Kandy: Relax and Enjoy the Scenery

One of the best things about the Royal Botanical Gardens is the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or just want to relax and enjoy the scenery, the gardens are the perfect place to do so. Take a seat on one of the benches scattered throughout the gardens and soak up the beauty of your surroundings.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for things to do in Kandy, a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens is a must. With its stunning plant life, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere, the gardens are a true gem of the city.

Discovering Kandy’s Cultural Dance Performances

Kandy is a city that is rich in culture and history. One of the best ways to experience this is by attending one of the many cultural dance performances that take place in the city. Here are some of the best things to do in Kandy when it comes to cultural dance performances:

1. Kandyan Dance Performance

The Kandyan dance is a traditional dance form that originated in the Kandy region. It is a highly energetic dance that is performed by both men and women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and perform to the beat of drums and other traditional instruments. You can catch a Kandyan dance performance at the Kandy Lake Club or the YMBA auditorium.

2. Cultural Show at the Temple of the Tooth

The Temple of the Tooth is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka. It is also home to a cultural show that takes place every evening. The show features traditional dance performances from different parts of the country, including Kandy. It is a great way to experience the diversity of Sri Lanka’s culture.

3. Folk Dance Performance at the Kandy Cultural Centre

The Kandy Cultural Centre is a great place to learn about Sri Lanka’s culture and history. It is also home to a folk dance performance that takes place every evening. The performance features traditional dance forms from different parts of the country, including Kandy. It is a great way to experience the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

In conclusion, attending a cultural dance performance is one of the best things to do in Kandy. It is a great way to experience the city’s rich culture and history. So, make sure to add this to your list of “things to do Kandy” when you visit the city.

A Scenic Journey to the Bahirawakanda Temple

If you’re looking for things to do in Kandy, a visit to the Bahirawakanda Temple is a must-see. This temple is located on a hilltop and offers breathtaking views of the city. The journey to the temple is just as scenic as the destination itself.

How to Get There

To get to the Bahirawakanda Temple, you can take a tuk-tuk or walk from the city center. The walk is about 30 minutes and takes you through the bustling streets of Kandy. As you make your way up the hill, you’ll pass by local shops and restaurants, giving you a glimpse into the daily life of the locals.

The Temple

Once you reach the top of the hill, you’ll be greeted by the towering statue of Buddha at the Bahirawakanda Temple. The statue is over 80 feet tall and is one of the largest in Sri Lanka. The temple itself is peaceful and serene, with beautiful gardens and a calming atmosphere.

The View

The real highlight of the Bahirawakanda Temple is the view. From the top of the hill, you can see the entire city of Kandy, including the famous Temple of the Tooth and the picturesque Kandy Lake. The view is especially stunning at sunset, when the sky turns shades of pink and orange.

Conclusion

Visiting the Bahirawakanda Temple is one of the top things to do in Kandy. The journey to the temple is just as enjoyable as the destination itself, with plenty of opportunities to experience the local culture. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and a peaceful atmosphere at the temple. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience during your trip to Kandy.

Delving into Kandy’s Rich History at the National Museum

If you’re looking for things to do in Kandy that will give you a glimpse into the city’s rich history, then a visit to the National Museum is a must. The museum is located in a beautiful colonial-era building and houses a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Sri Lanka’s past.

Things to Do at the National Museum

• Explore the galleries: The museum has several galleries that showcase different aspects of Sri Lanka’s history, including the prehistoric era, the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods, the Kandyan era, and the colonial period. You can spend hours exploring these galleries and learning about the country’s fascinating past.

• Admire the artifacts: The museum’s collection includes a wide range of artifacts, including ancient coins, weapons, pottery, and textiles. Some of the highlights include the throne of the last Kandyan king, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha, and the crown and sword of the first king of Kandy, Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe.

• Learn from the experts: The museum has a team of knowledgeable guides who can take you on a tour of the galleries and provide you with insights into Sri Lanka’s history. They can answer any questions you may have and help you understand the significance of the artifacts on display.

Conclusion

Visiting the National Museum is one of the top things to do in Kandy if you’re interested in history and culture. You’ll get to see some of Sri Lanka’s most important artifacts and learn about the country’s fascinating past. So, make sure to add it to your list of things to do in Kandy.

Unwinding by the Kandy Lake and its Surroundings

If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing way to spend your time in Kandy, then a visit to the Kandy Lake and its surroundings is a must. Here are some things to do in Kandy around the lake:

Take a Stroll

One of the best ways to unwind is to take a leisurely stroll around the Kandy Lake. The lake is surrounded by a well-maintained path that is perfect for a morning or evening walk. You can enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful scenery while getting some exercise.

Visit the Temple of the Tooth

The Temple of the Tooth is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka and is located near the Kandy Lake. It is believed to house a tooth relic of the Buddha and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Sri Lankan culture and history.

Enjoy a Boat Ride

Another great way to unwind is to take a boat ride on the Kandy Lake. You can rent a paddle boat or a motorboat and enjoy the serene surroundings while gliding on the calm waters of the lake.

Explore the Kandy City Center

The Kandy City Center is a modern shopping mall located near the Kandy Lake. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and other items. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants or catch a movie at the cinema.

Relax at a Spa

If you’re looking for some pampering, then head to one of the many spas located near the Kandy Lake. You can enjoy a massage, facial, or other treatments to help you relax and unwind.

Overall, there are plenty of things to do in Kandy around the Kandy Lake and its surroundings. Whether you want to take a stroll, visit a temple, enjoy a boat ride, explore the city center, or relax at a spa, there’s something for everyone.

In conclusion, my time in Kandy has been nothing short of magical. From the rich history and culture to the breathtaking natural beauty, there’s no shortage of things to do Kandy. As Journeying Jack, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing many incredible destinations, but Kandy truly stands out as a must-visit location.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and memorable adventure, the things to do Kandy will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to this enchanting city. I hope my Suitcase Stories have inspired you to explore the many things to do Kandy and create your own unforgettable experiences.

Until our next adventure, happy travels, and remember – there’s always more things to do Kandy waiting to be discovered!