How to combine Nature and Culture on a Kandy Stay 

A picturesque city nestled on a plateau in the hilly terrain of its central province, Kandy is the second largest city in Sri Lanka. It was also the capital of the last Kingdom of the island when the British captured it. These factors make Kandy rich in history and culture while showcasing natural beauty, a combination that captivates the interest of discerning travellers. With most of the sites being in proximity to the city, discover how to enjoy culture and nature’s beauty during your stay in Kandy.

Amazing Knuckles Mountain Range

Knuckles Mountain Range is so named due to the 34 peaks of the range of mountains resembling a closed fist. This enthralling site is a part of the Peak Wilderness Protected Area of Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a high level of biodiversity. With an extent of over 155 sq km, this area offers picturesque hiking trails for all levels of fitness, along with plenty of bird-watching opportunities, making it a haven for nature lovers. Such keen visitors tend to opt for properties like Kandy Myst by Cinnamon, one of the finest 4 star hotels in Kandy Sri Lanka, to be able to enjoy most of the attractions with ease.

The hikes at Knuckles are truly rewarding, especially during the dry season, which is from December to March, as the sky is clear, and the paths are easier to navigate.

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

This stately yet charming temple boasts a lush backdrop of mountains, lending it an aura of mystical beauty, and is situated in the heart of Kandy city. It is a much-revered temple, as it enshrines a tooth relic of the Lord Buddha, thus attracting scores of devotees and visitors daily. This significant temple, featuring distinctive Kandyan-style architecture that is visible in the frescoes, intricate wood carvings, stone carvings, and the elegant Wahalkada (the entrance), along with the city’s unique designation as the Royal Capital encompassing many royal structures, comprises a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural significance. The religious rituals performed during the day at this temple offer a profound experience.

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

Situated about 460 m above sea level and a 5 km ride from Kandy City, these spectacular gardens offer a sensory delight to visitors.  It encompasses over 4,000 species of plants, including roses, orchids, and other blooms and medicinal plants spanning 147 acres. These gardens portray many fine features of garden artistry, with long pathways framed by Palms, offering a lovely palm-framed path, as are the shady evergreen trees that lend a shady walkway, a welcome sight for visitors. Its Orchid House, which is quite famous for some of the finest species of orchids, is another beautiful sight most visitors admire. The large pergolas and wire arches with masses of creepers and vines add a riot of colour, enhancing the beauty of the gardens. The best time to visit this garden of pleasure is during the early hours of the morning.

Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya (Also known as Bahirawakanda Temple) 

This is a tranquil Buddhist Temple built atop a mountain known as Bahirawakanda, hence its name. The most outstanding feature at this temple is the seated statue of Lord Buddha in Dhyana Pose (a meditative pose), with a height of 88 feet. It can be seen in its pristine white serenity from afar, especially in the surrounding areas of Kandy city, especially at night. Many local devotees and tourists don’t fail to visit this serene cultural site situated just 2 km from the Temple of the Tooth. Once you reach the top, apart from appreciating the tranquil environment, take time to witness an awe-inspiring view of Kandy city and the surrounding lush mountainous areas.