Kandy

Nestled among lush hills in central Sri Lanka, Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage city known as the island's cultural and spiritual heart. It is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most revered Buddhist temples in the world. Visitors can stroll around the beautiful Kandy Lake, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, and experience the vibrant Kandy Esala Perahera festival – a spectacular annual procession celebrating Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage. Kandy's cool climate, scenic surroundings, and rich traditions make it an essential stop on any Sri Lanka itinerary. Best time to visit: December to April for pleasant weather and cultural events.