Kandy (Sinhala: මහනුවර, Tamil: கண்டி)

Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka, serves as the gateway to the hill country. The Mahanuwara Rajadhaniya (Kingdom of Kandy) was the final independent monarchy of Sri Lanka, falling under British control in 1815. This picturesque city is situated at the heart of the island, surrounded by stunning mountains, and features Kandy Lake at its center, one of the city's main attractions.

Kandy is home to The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a highly revered site in the Buddhist world. UNESCO designated it a world heritage site in 1988. Kandy is especially captivating when it rains. The Kandy Esala Perahara, held in July and August, is a major draw and ranks among the world's best religious parades.

Many visitors choose to spend a night in Kandy en route to Nuwara Eliya and Ella. As the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, it offers travelers the chance to purchase Sri Lankan handicrafts, batiks, and renowned tea. Don't miss the Kandian cultural show, Kandian architecture, and especially the Sri Lankan tea.

Temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C year-round. The ideal time to visit is from January to April, as this period experiences minimal rainfall.

There are many places to stay that fit your budget. Some of the top hotels are Hotel Suisse, Randholee Resort and Spa, Mahaweli Reach Hotel, Royal Classic Hotel, Stone House Kandy, The Golden Crown HotelEarl's Regent Kandy, OZOKandy, and Queen's Hotel.

Must do Things in Kandy

• The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

• Esala Perahara (In July/August)

• Sri Dalada Maligawa Museum

• Kandy to Ella Train Ride

• Kandian cultural show

Other Things to do in Kandy

• Ceylon Tea Museum

• Visit a Tea Factory

• Royal Botanical Gardens/Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

• Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

• National Museum

• Bahirawa Kanda Vihara Buddha Statue