Sri Lanka

Kandy

Kandy is located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka and is one of the most important cultural and historical cities in the country. Surrounded by lush hills and tea plantations, it served as the last royal capital of Sri Lanka before colonial rule. The city is most famous for the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts pilgrims from around the world. Kandy Lake, built by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, sits in the heart of the city, adding scenic beauty. Other attractions include Peradeniya Botanical Garden, Udawatta Kele Forest Reserve, Bahirawakanda Temple and the world-famous Esala Perahera festival, a grand cultural procession featuring dancers, drummers, and decorated elephants. Kandy is a key destination for culture, history, religion and hill-country tourism.