Kandy — Royal City & Temple of the Tooth

Kandy is the cultural heart of Sri Lanka and the island's last kingdom, which only fell to the British in 1815. The city is picturesquely situated around an artificial lake in the mountains at an altitude of 500 meters — cooler and greener than the lowlands, surrounded by tea plantations and rainforest.

Sri Dalada Maligawa — the Temple of the Tooth

The centerpiece of Kandy is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses a tooth of Buddha — the holiest relic in Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tooth is kept in a golden shrine, surrounded by seven golden caskets. Three times a day (6:30, 9:30, 6:30 PM), the shrine is opened during the Puja ceremonies — then hundreds of devotees with lotus flowers flock to the temple. The atmosphere of drum sounds, incense, and deep devotion is unforgettable.

Esala Perahera — Sri Lanka's largest festival

For ten days in July/August, Kandy transforms into a spectacle: The Esala Perahera is one of the oldest and most magnificent religious processions in the world. Over 100 decorated elephants, thousands of dancers, drummers, and fire jugglers parade through the illuminated streets. The highlight: The most splendid elephant carries a replica of the tooth relic through the city. Seats on the stands cost 2,000–5,000 LKR (6–14 €) — book weeks in advance!

Other Highlights in Kandy

• Royal Botanic Gardens (Peradeniya): One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia with over 4,000 plant species, huge colonies of flying foxes, and a colonial orchid collection. 2,000 LKR entrance fee.
• Kandy Lake: The artificial lake in the city center is perfect for an evening stroll. The best view of the Temple of the Tooth is from the south side.
• Kandyan Dance Show: Traditional dance performance with fire walkers, daily at 5 PM at the Kandy Lake Club or the Cultural Center. 1,500 LKR.