Have you ever visited Sri Lanka? This island nation in South Asia is the jewel of the Indian Ocean. It continues to attract millions of people with its jaw-dropping natural beauty.
Kandy, which is located in the hills and scenery, is one of its many gem places. If you’re looking for a destination that is full of history, nature, and culture, then you must visit Kandy. From ancient temples to amazing waterfalls, this place has everything for everyone.
Keep reading, as this article will revolve around the city. And, if you’re planning a trip to Kandy in 2024, let’s learn the 10 best places you shouldn’t miss:
What Are the Top Places to Visit in Kandy?
Kandy is packed with amazing places to explore. Whether you’re into temples or viewpoints, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s see where you can visit on your Kandy trip:
1. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
This place in Kandy is best for couples, families, friends, or even if you’re traveling solo. Tourists are allowed to spend the whole day there, hanging out with wild Asian elephants. Over 90 elephants are living there, all in their natural environment. You can watch them bathing, and playing, and also feed them some fruit. When you go on a visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, you’ll get a chance to see these majestic creatures very closely.
And, if you’re looking for a nice spot for a picnic with your family or friends, this place is perfect in Kandy. Pinnawala is where they take care of abandoned or injured elephants. They have caretakers called mahouts who make sure they’re bathed and fed properly.
2. Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake is one of the best spots to visit in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It’s right next to a bunch of popular tourist spots and restaurants with great views of the lake. If you want to relax and take it easy during your vacation, this is the place to be. You can enjoy the beautiful nature view all around the lake. Specifically, the place is nice for couples looking for a romantic gateway.
They also call it Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk. It’s actually a man-made lake with an island in the middle, which adds to its charm. Agree or not, Kandy Lake is definitely worth checking out.
3. Temple Tooth of Relic
The Temple of the Tooth Relic is one of the must-visit temples in Sri Lanka. It’s located near Kandy Lake. People think it is one of the coolest places to check out in Kandy. Inside the temple, there’s a sacred tooth that belonged to Lord Buddha. For Buddhist people, this is significant. You can go in and pray. But, you can’t see the actual tooth because it’s kept in a fancy gold box inside a special building. When Kandy was a separate monarchy, the temple was a part of the royal palace.
This temple is very sacred to the locals of Sri Lanka because of their belief in the tooth. They have rituals there three times a day. In 1988, UNESCO declared this place to be an exceptionally outstanding site. Even though it got attacked a couple of times, the temple is still standing tall and is one the best places to visit in Kandy.
4. Ranweli Spice Garden
Enough talk about finding animals in the wild. Now, let’s explore some lush greenery and amazing plans in their natural environment. This place in Kandy is located near the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden. You’ll see all kinds of plants like turmeric, Peppercorns, cloves, cardamom, vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa, and aloe vera.
Here, you can learn all about how these plants are grown, the spices they make, and how natural products are made. All in all, Ranweli Spice Garden is a nice break from the busy city life. There’s a lot of interesting history and surprises waiting for you there.\
5. Hulu River Waterfall
About 30 Km away from Kandy, there’s the peaceful town of Dumbara, where the stunning Huganga Falls sits along the Hulu River. This river starts from the beautiful Knuckles Mountain Range and is a breathtaking sight for anyone who visits. If we talk about its height, the waterfall is 75 meters high. It is surrounded by the eye-catching beauty of nature. There’s no surprise that Huluganga is one of the top places to see in Kandy.
If you’re planning to explore Kandy, make sure to include this place in your list. You’ll love the rocks scattered around the waterfall, which are perfect for adventurous photo ops.
6. CommonWealth Cemetery
This place in Kandy is another must-visit on your trip. It’s a cemetery taken care of by officials to honor soldiers who died in World War II. There are six Commonwealth War Cemeteries in Sri Lanka, but the one in Kandy stands out for its beautiful surroundings.
7. Royal Botanical Garden
Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy is a sight to behold. It covers a huge area of 60 hectares and is full of hidden treasures waiting to be explored. This Botanical Garden is located in Peradeniya, near the Mahaweli River. You’ll find an incredible variety of plants here, with over 4000 species, including stunning orchids. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
The garden is perfect for picnics with family and friends. But, it is also one of the go-to places for romantic couples. When you’re in Kandy, many taxi drivers offer tours that include the Botanical Garden along with other sights like the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage of Kandy temple. The part is open from 7:30 AM to 5 PM, so you can plan your visit accordingly. It’s a fantastic choice for couples looking for a memorable experience in Kandy.
8. Kandy View Point
Kandy is like the heart of Sri Lanka, and soaking in this beautiful hill station from up high is a special treat not everyone gets to enjoy. So, make sure you check out this place during your trip. The viewpoint is just 1.7 km away from the city center, and the journey there is really picturesque. Don’t forget your camera for some Instagram-worthy pictures at these amazing places, which are undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Kandy. It’s also a top choice for trekking adventures in Sri Lanka.
9. Knuckles Mountain Range – Hiking And More
Shaped like a clenched fist’s knuckle when viewed from above, the Knuckles Mountain Range is one of the most stunning attractions in Kandy. Located about 39 km from the city, it’s a must-visit place. It’s perfect for adventure seekers who love hiking, camping, and exploring. The range stretches from Matale to Kandy and is a heaven for nature lovers.
You’ll be blown away by the wild beauty here, with vast grasslands, rugged peaks, rushing streams, and gorgeous waterfalls. The best part? The thick clouds that often blanket the higher parts of the mountains, give you a truly magical view. Hiking here is considered one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. So, if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and indulge in nature, this is the place to be.
10. Bahirawakanda Temple
Just a short 1 km from Kandy city, you’ll find the Bahirawakanda Temple, an amazing place to visit. It’s a big draw for Buddhists and even hosts international Buddhist meetings. That’s why it’s one of the top things to see in Kandy. The temple’s huge statue stands tall and can be seen from anywhere in the city. It’s also a significant monastery where Buddhist rituals often happen.
Construction of the statue started in 1972 and finished in 1993. You can either climb the stairs to the top of the hill or just take a quick tuk-tuk ride to reach the temple grounds. If you’re exploring Kandy, don’t miss this architectural marvel. While you can see the Buddha statue from all over the city, it’s really worth visiting up close to appreciate its beauty. All in all, if you’re planning to visit Kandy, make sure to add it to your tour itinerary.
Conclusion
That’s it, as you plan your trip to Kandy in 2024, let these 10 best places be your guide to an unforgettable adventure. From spiritual places to natural wonders, each destination has its own charms and they invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural heritage. So, get the best tour package, pack your bags, and proceed on a trip of discovery. You’ll definitely create memories that will last a lifetime in this beautiful city.
