The exterior view of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

(By Tsem Rinpoche and Stella Cheang)

The veneration of relics is an ancient custom that plays an important role in major world religions such as Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, and Shamanism. For example, sites that house holy relics in Christianity are major pilgrimage destinations because it is believed that these relics are a benediction to the living and the deceased.

In Buddhism, holy relics generally refer to the physical remains or personal effects of Buddha Shakyamuni. Incredibly, some of Buddha Shakyamuni’s bodily remains have survived for two and a half millennia, including the much-revered sacred tooth of the Buddha in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Most Buddhist temples have stupas, and these stupas are often created specifically to house precious relics. Such reliquary stupas often become the initial structure around which the whole temple is later based. Today, stupas may also hold the ashes or ringsel (relics in Tibetan) of prominent or respected Buddhist masters.

Dagoba of Thuparama is the first stupa built in Sri Lanka

After Buddha Shakyamuni entered clear light and was cremated, his relics were highly sought after by the eight royal families of the period. In order to avoid disharmony, the Buddha’s relics were divided into eight parts and then distributed among the royal families who promised to enshrine them in stupas and worship them.

War erupted over the Buddha’s relics in the 1st century CE. After the Buddha entered parinirvana in Kushinagar, the capital of Malla, the King tried to keep all the relics within the republic. As a result, the chiefs of the seven other clans waged war against the Mallas for possession of the Buddha’s relics.

The Significance of the Buddha’s Relics

In Buddhism, relics represent that Enlightenment is possible. They remind Buddhists that the Buddha was a real person just like the rest of us, yet achieved full awakening. In a deeper sense, relics embody the spiritual qualities, compassion and wisdom of the Buddha. Therefore, a Buddhist who engages in the spiritual path prescribed by the Buddha can attain Full Enlightenment.

The Buddha statue inside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

It is believed that by making offerings and prayers to the Buddha’s sacred relics, one will be blessed and protected. At the same time, imprints from previous lives open quicker, thereby unlocking much positive potential for the individual’s spiritual progress.

Thus, due to the significance of the Buddha’s relics, their custody and possession became symbolic of the right to rule. The reigning monarch would therefore take all necessary steps, including waging wars, in order to take the relics into their possession.

After the parinirvana of Buddha Shakyamuni, the sacred tooth relic was first preserved in Kalinga. Later, it was smuggled to Ceylon (Sri Lanka) by Princess Hemamali and her husband, Prince Dantha, on the instructions of Kalinga’s ruler, King Guhasiva, as neighbouring states were on the verge of winning the war for possession of the relic. Having landed on the island of Lankapattana, Princess Hemamali and Prince Dantha presented the relic to King Sirimeghavanna of Anuradhapura (301-328CE) who then enshrined it at Meghagiri Vihara (present day Isurumuniya).

The arrival of the tooth relic in Sri Lanka

Over the centuries, the relic was housed in different kingdoms following the shifting of power amongst the reigning monarchs. During the era of the Kingdom of Gampola, the relic was kept in Niyamgampaya Vihara. As the Kingdom of Kotte was established, the relic in its possession shifted to the city of Sri Jayawardenepura. During the reign of King Dom João Dharmapala of Kotte, the relic was kept hidden in Delgamuwa Vihara, Ratnapura, in a grinding stone.

Finally, the relic was brought to Kandy by Hiripitiye Diyawadana Rala and Devanagala Rathnalankara Thera. King Vimaladharmasuriya I built a two-storey building to enshrine the tooth relic, but unfortunately that building did not survive subsequent wars and demolition. When the Portuguese invaded Kandy in 1603CE, the tooth relic was carried to Meda Mahanuwara in Dumbara, and was later recovered during the time of King Rajasinha II, who reinstated the relic in a new building.

The present-day Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic was built by King Vira Narendra Sinha. The octagonal Pattirippuwa and moat were added during the reign of King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha. Today, the Temple opens its doors for the public to pay homage to the Buddha’s sacred relic.

About the Kingdom of Kandy

Kandy was an important independent monarchy in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) at the end of the 15^th Century, and the last Sinhalese kingdom to be subjugated by a colonial power. Kandy survived the attacks of Ceylon’s first two colonists — the Portuguese and the Dutch — but finally succumbed to the British in 1818. The Portuguese had wiped out all other Sinhalese kingdoms in the early 1600s.

The Kingdom of Kandy

Under Portuguese rule, Kandy allied itself with the Dutch; under Dutch rule, it sought assistance from the British, who considered the continued independence of Kandy a hindrance to the expansion of both their trade and their communications network in Ceylon.

The British launched their first attack against Kandy in 1803, which ended in failure. By 1815 however, the Kandyan chiefs had become dissatisfied with their tyrannical king and welcomed British intervention. In the Kandyan Convention of 1815, the Kandyan king was deposed and sovereignty was vested in the British Crown, while the rights of the Kandyan chiefs were largely maintained.

Soon, the chiefs became dissatisfied with this arrangement and openly rebelled in 1817, but were subjugated by the British in 1818. Ceylon was thus, for the first time in many centuries, brought under unified rule.

What To Do In Kandy

Known for its spirituality and laid-back charm, Kandy is a beautiful and balmy city popular amongst spiritual, cultural, and nature seekers. There are temples and meditation centres aplenty as well as dense nature trails.

The Tooth Relic Temple

The golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) houses Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic – a tooth of the Buddha. The temple was built by the Kandyan kings between 1687-1707 and 1747-1782, and was part of the royal palace. Besides the revered main temple, the complex includes a series of smaller temples, shrines and museums.

On the north side of the temple is the Audience Hall, which is only accessible via the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Dating from the 19^th Century, it is a beautiful open-air pavilion with stone columns, Buddha statues, and ivory.

The Audience Hall is dotted with golden Buddha statues and ivory

As the actual tooth relic is enshrined in a dagoba-shaped golden casket in the Audience Hall, it is hidden away from direct view. The golden casket sits on the altar, three meters from the doorway. Visitors, pilgrims and tourists move in a queue around the premises, and are allocated 15 seconds each inside the shrine room. Sri Lankan Buddhists believe they must make a pilgrimage to this temple at least once in their lifetime, as to worship here improves one’s karmic lot immeasurably.

Location: Sri Dalada Maligawa
Entrance Fee: USD15 per person
Opening Hours: 5:30 am – 8:00 pm

Useful Tip: Wear clothes that cover your legs and shoulders. Otherwise, you will not be allowed to enter the temple. Tourists may not know this, and may have to go to one of the nearby markets in Kandy to buy sarongs.

The Royal Palace of Kandy

The Royal Palace of the Kandyan Kingdom is the last remnant of the reign of King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe (1798 – 1815). It dates back to the 14^th Century, where it bore witness to the glory and glamour of the kingdom. It has survived many wars and foreign invasions, from the Portuguese and Dutch amongst others.

The exterior of the Royal Palace of Kandy

The Royal Court, another architectural attraction, is where many meetings with the king were held and where the Kandyan Convention, the end of the Kandyan kingdom, was signed. Other highlights of the Royal Palace include the King’s Palace (Raja Wasala), the Royal Court (Magul Maduwa), the Queen’s Palace (Meda Wasala), the King’s Harem’s Quarters (Palle Vahale), the Queen’s Bathing Pavilion (Ulpange), and the Royal Gardens inside the palace gates. Adjacent to the Royal Palace is the Victorian era building that until recently housed the Kandy High Court.

Location: Sri Dalads Veediya
Entrance Fee: USD8 per adult. Children enter for free.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

This 88ft-high white Buddha statue, strategically located atop Bahirava Kanda Hill or Devil’s Hill, is one of the highlights of the Kandyan landscape and is visible from almost any vantage point in Peradeniya. Visitors can either climb the steps to reach the viewpoint, or hire a tuk-tuk.

The statue’s beauty is enhanced at night when it is lit up by lamps. The best time to visit is in the early morning or after sunset. The panoramic view of the city, including a view of the lake, tea factory and football stadium is another visitor attraction. A gallery containing artefacts based on the life of the Buddha and a souvenir shop are located close by.

The majestic statue of Lord Buddha at Bahirawakanda Temple in Kandy

Location: Peradeniya, Kandy.
Entrance Fee: Starts from USD2 approximately
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day

Other Places to Visit in Kandy

The International Buddhist Museum

Located close to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the International Buddhist Museum sits within the royal palace complex. It is a knowledge base that showcases the spreading of Buddhism throughout Asia and is a crowd puller for those who want a better understanding of the impact of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the world. Individual rooms are dedicated to different countries, illustrating the history of Buddhism in these geographical locations. There are also photographs, models, and gigantic statues which depict the influence of Buddhism on people in various places.

Visitors are reminded to wear covered clothes and to remove their shoes. There is an elevator in the Museum which allows disabled visitors to access the upper floors.

Location: Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Entrance Fee: Approximate price starts from USD 7 per adult
Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 7:00 am

The International Buddhist Museum

The Udawattekele Sanctuary

The Udawattekele Sanctuary, also known as the Royal Park Palace, is located amidst the hilly terrain of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Centuries ago, the jungle on the far side was known as the Uda Wasala Watta, or the upper palace garden, hence its name. Scattered across 257 acres, it is deemed the most important bio reserve of the country and was officially designated a sanctuary in 1938.

Its catchment area provides fresh water to the lake, and the reserve purifies the nearby city’s air. The highlights of the sanctuary include a few Buddhist temples, a water pond, Kodimale Peak, Senkanda Cave, and Garrison Cemetery.

Location: Wevelpitiya Road, Kandy
Entry Fee: USD4 for foreigners and a much lower rate for locals
Opening Hours: Open daily but it is not recommended to visit the sanctuary during the rainy season

Kandy Lake

Kandy Lake dominates a large area of Kandy City. Despite its serene surface, it has a bloody history. The lake was first created in 1807CE by the last ruler of the Kingdom of Kandy. The people initially objected to labouring on the lake project but the rebellion was soon quelled as naysayers were ruthlessly staked to death on the lake bed.

The middle of the lake features a small island used by the emperor as his personal harem. Later, the British used it to store ammunition and built a fortress style parapet around the area. The main attractions of Kandy Lake are the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, boat rides in the lake and the abundant wildlife including birds, lizards, and tortoises.

Kandy Lake waterfront and the Clouds Wall a.k.a. Walakulu Wall at sunrise

The Tooth Relic Temple at dusk, situated on the northern part of Kandy Lake

Peradeniya Botanic Garden

Once exclusively reserved for the Kandyan Royalty, the Peradeniya Botanic Garden, also known as the Royal Garden, is open to the public today, making it the largest botanic garden in Sri Lanka, covering 60 hectares of land near the Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka.

Famous for its collection of orchids, cannonball trees, coconut palms, spice garden, giant bamboos, rubber trees, as well as a stately avenue of royal palms planted in 1950, the botanical garden attracts 2 million visitors annually.

Beautiful orchids in the Peradeniya Botanic Garden

A bridge in the Royal Botanic Garden in Peradeniya, Kandy

Kandyan Dance and Drum Show

The Kandyan dance and drum show is an intense and energetic performance by both male and female performers dressed in unique, colourful costumes. Ten different dances are performed, including the famous “Devil” dances of the west coast, and the Raban Dance.

Kandyan drummer and dancer at the dance show

The Raban Dance where the performer balances flat drums (Raban) on sticks while dancing.

Major Buddhist Festivals

1. New Year

The Sinhalese and Tamil New Year is celebrated by Hindus and Buddhists alike. The festival originally celebrated the end of the harvest and the beginning of the south-western monsoon. Many old rituals – such as lighting the hearth and eating for the first time in the new year – are still carried out today at astrologically auspicious times by traditional families. Some families also continue with the custom of casting horoscopes for the new year, and offer special foods to the gods. Businesses close for the duration of the celebration and many people return to their villages, put on new clothes, and celebrate with games and fireworks.

2. Vesak

Celebrated on the day of the full moon in May, Vesak is the most sacred of Buddhist festivals as it celebrates the Buddha’s birth, Enlightenment, and death. Buses and cars are decorated with streamers and garlands, shops and streets are decked out with a myriad of paper lanterns, tiny clay coconut-oil lamps are lit in villages, and cities put up illuminated structures called pandals, with richly decorated panels depicting events in the Buddha’s life.

It is considered meritorious to offer gifts of food and drink during the festival, thus roadside booths (dansal) are specially constructed to offer both free of charge. The fare on offer ranges from rice and curries to Vesak sweetmeats. The devout dress in white and visit their local temple to spend the day performing religious observances, fasting, and praying.

Vesak, a cultural celebration in Kandy, Sri Lanka

3. Poson

Poson Poya in June commemorates the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. The day is celebrated in temples all over the island, but the biggest celebration is at Mihintale, where the Buddhist emissary Mahinda converted King Devanampiya in 247BC, establishing Buddhism as the national religion of the Sinhalese.

4. Esala Perahera

The Esala Perahera in Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and grandest Buddhist festivals, featuring dancers, jugglers, musicians, fire-breathers, and lavishly decorated elephants. This is held during Esala (July or August), which is believed to commemorate the first teaching given by the Buddha after he attained Enlightenment.

The festival is also meant to honour the Sacred Tooth Relic and the four ‘guardian’ gods: Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama, and the Goddess Pattini. The Sinhalese term ‘Perahera’ means a parade of musicians, dancers, singers, acrobats, and other performers accompanied by many caparisoned tuskers and elephants parading the streets in celebration of this religious event.

The perahera gradually becomes longer and more lavish over the course of the festival. By the time the final night comes around, it would have swollen to include hundreds of elephants and thousands of dancers, drummers, fire-eaters, acrobats, and many others.

The festival of Esala Perahera illuminates the streets of Kandy

5. Duruthu Perahera

The Duruthu Perahera, held at the Raja Maha Vihara temple in Kelaniya, 8 km (5 miles) outside Colombo, is second only to the Kandy Perahera in spectacle. Staged annually in January, the Duruthu Perahera commemorates the first visit of the Buddha to Sri Lanka over 2,500 years ago, with a lavish procession of elephants, dancers, and drummers.

Proper Etiquette

Using One’s Hands

Instead of using cutlery, Sri Lankans eat with the fingertips of their right hands. Having said that, proper cutlery is available in most restaurants upon request. Using the right hand when shaking hands, handling money and small objects, etc. amongst Sri Lankans is similar to the customs in the rest of the world.

Eating with one’s hand is second nature to many Sri Lankans

Respecting Buddhist Culture

Buddhism is the main faith in Sri Lanka and over 70% of the population are Buddhist. Thus, it is critical to understand the social norms of Buddhist culture.

It is a no-no to touch or pat Buddhist monks on the crown of their heads. The same goes for children at a temple. One should always be respectful, polite and show deference to monks. For example, many people practice giving up their seats to monks on a crowded bus. The same deference is also observed when entering a temple by covering one’s shoulders and legs. It is also common practice to remove footwear and headwear before heading into a place of worship.

Wearing attire which features images of the Buddha or any other deity may be considered disrespectful and insensitive. It may also be considered illegal in some areas, resulting in arrest by the local police.

Public Photography

Photography etiquette

The colour and culture of Sri Lanka is a photographer’s paradise, but there are a few things to consider before getting too snap happy. Some sites require a permit which covers photography, filming, parking, and entrance fees. These sites are generally only accessible between 6 am and 10 am. Look out for signboards permitting photography before taking photographs both indoors and outdoors.

Other Social Etiquettes

Public displays of affection such as kissing and/or hugging are generally frowned upon. However, they are generally acceptable at certain functions and establishments such as nightclubs, casinos and beach parties. Some allowances are made for foreigners.

Public nudity is illegal in Sri Lanka as are same-sex relationships. In general, it is safest to observe what the locals and others do to avoid offending anyone or getting into trouble.

Location and Population

Kandy was the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka. The city is located between multiple mountain ranges at an elevation of 500 metres (1,600ft) above sea level. It lies adjacent to Kandy Lake, south of Udawatta Kele Sanctuary.

Kandy is both an administrative and religious city, and is also the capital of the Central Province. As the second largest city of the island nation, the majority of the population are Sinhalese, with considerable communities belonging to other ethnic groups such as Moors and Tamils.

The city remains an important religious centre for the Sinhalese and a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists. It is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred places of worship in Buddhism, and was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1988.

Kandy is a major city in Sri Lanka located in the Central Province, 113.5 km north east of Colombo. The city lies amidst the hills of the Kandy plateau, which crosses vast areas of tropical tea plantations.

Climate

Located in the centre of an island at high elevation, Kandy’s climate is that of a tropical rainforest and the city is relatively wetter and cooler than the rest of the country. The dry season runs from January through to April, while the monsoon season is from May through to July and October to December.

Being in the northern hemisphere, Kandy’s coldest month is January and the hottest is July. From March through to the middle of May, the inter-monsoonal period, light rains and strong humidity are expected.

Earth Hour in Sri Lanka

Shopping

Eager shoppers will want to watch out for one of Kandy’s most distinctive goods, the Kandyan sari. Worn by Sinhalese women in both formal and casual occasions, the Kandyan sari, as opposed to the traditional Indian version, has more frills and comes in two pieces.

There are many street stalls and boutiques where tourists can buy or just admire a Kandyan sari. The shop owners will only be too happy to demonstrate how to wear one properly.

A Sinhalese girl wearing a beautiful Traditional Kandyan saree

Food

Kandy does not have many western restaurants, so the best meals you’ll enjoy during your visit will likely be at your hotel. One option is the Empire Cafe inside a 200-year-old colonial-styled building with a street-level veranda. Along the same street as the garland-sellers near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, you will find good coffee, curries and cakes.

Traditional Kandyan street food

How To Get There

By Hire Car or Taxi

The A1 highway will take you directly from Colombo and Negombo to Kandy in 3 hours. Cars can easily be hired for about USD15 to USD20 per day, including a driver and fuel. A van would cost around USD22 per day while a taxi from the International Bandaranaike Airport or Negombo to Kandy will cost around USD45.

Taxi services are popular in Sri Lanka

Some of the reliable taxi services in Kandy

By Bus

Kandy has one main bus station for long distance travel called ‘Good Shed’, and a number of bus stops located around the clock tower. To catch a local bus towards the towns of Matale or Kegalle for example, you’ll find the correct bus stop in the vicinity of the clock tower.

The bus service in Kandy is essential as it caters to roughly 325,000 people who enter the city on a weekday. On average, about 5,000 buses ply the Kandy city roads per day.

Buses travel to most of the destinations below every half hour from 5:00 am till 8:30 pm

By Train

A train approaching Kandy Railway Station

Train tickets and reservations (up to 10 days in advance) are available from counter 1 at the Kandy train station. The counter is open from 5:30 am to 5:30 pm. The train timetable of Kandy Railway Station is available to download here.

If a seated ticket is not available at the ticket counter, you can always check with the stationmaster, as they have the authority to release more seats for tourists.

The Intercity Express train from Colombo to Kandy only takes 2½ hours. Super-luxury compartments are added to the Kandy Intercity Express train, which has TV and Wi-Fi facilities.

Where To Stay

With the constant flow of tourists, Kandy has a wide selection of hospitality and accommodation options. Here are some recommendations; we recommend that you do further research to find one that fits your budget and requirements.

1. Freedom Lodge

Located near the scenic Kandy Lake away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets, Freedom Lodge is a guesthouse operated by a local family. The hosts, who speak fluent English, offer eight rooms in a welcoming and homey environment. Guests can kick back in the garden area and all rooms are equipped with necessities such as mosquito nets and fans, and feature modern private bathrooms.

Freedom Lodge provides breakfast with fresh fruit, toast, fried eggs, honey and quality coffee, which can be hard to come by in this tropical country.

Address: 30 Saranankara Rd, Kandy, Sri Lanka

2. Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge

Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge is located less than an hour away from Kandy. It is nestled 1,000 meters above sea level in the scenic Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Guests can rest in tents which are equipped with all comforts including en-suite bathrooms and Wi-Fi access. Magnificent views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery can also be enjoyed from the terrace or infinity pool. The property features a fine dining restaurant serving a large variety of dishes made using organic vegetables from its own gardens. Trekking, day trips to the local tea factory and romantic campfires can be arranged upon request.

Address: Madolkele – Habaragala Rd, Sri Lanka

3. Ellerton Bungalow

Situated a comfortable distance away from the overwhelming bustle of Kandy, the Ellerton Bungalow is a 200-year-old manor sited on a six-acre land, and is the city’s first high-end boutique hotel.

Colonial artefacts and decorations are complemented by white arches and pillared verandas. Calming Buddhists chants from the nearby monastery as well as parrots and butterflies fluttering through the trees further make this hotel one of the best places in Kandy to rest your head at night.

Address: Nawa Gurukelle, Doluwa, Gampola, Kandy 20500, Sri Lanka

4. Helga’s Folly

Helga’s Folly is characterised by its decor and architectural style. Designed by Helga da Silva, this place has hosted eminent guests such as Gandhi and Paula Yates, and reflects the colourful life of its famous owner.

The garden has wild monkeys and birds moving through its confines and even has a shimmering pool surrounded by fairy lights. The room decor continues the colourful theme and offers modern comforts. Visitors can choose from no less than seven dining rooms and, if they are in luck, they may enjoy an evening with the hostess herself, who is always happy to share her adventures. Helga’s Folly is also a famous stop for people who appreciate a good cocktail.

Address: 70 Rajaphilla Mawatha, Kandy, Sri Lanka

5. Burmese Rest

Said to be ideal for spiritual seekers, lodging in Burmese Rest comes at a low price that does not compromise on quality. A former pilgrim’s guesthouse run by monks, Burmese Rest offers clean rooms within the confines of an old building which retains a unique beauty in its gradual decay. The scenic courtyard reflects an old-time grandeur, and is often filled with slow-moving tortoises.

The hostel is only a few minutes away from the city centre, and lies within reach of the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the scenic Kandy Lake. The monks are friendly and happy to chat, although visitors should always keep in mind to behave and dress appropriately.

Address: 274 Ds Senanayake Vidiya, Kandy, Sri Lanka

6. Elephant Stables

Surrounded by the lush jungles of Kandy, the Elephant Stables boutique hotel is the restored home of Sir Cudah Ratwatte. Located outside the city centre, this place has a tranquil atmosphere and offers guestrooms as well as an outdoor pool.

Decorated in warm tones with wooden accents, the rooms are equipped with various amenities, from air conditioning to a minibar and flat-screen TV. Under the watchful eye of master chef Indika, its Green Room restaurant serves up delicious Sri Lankan, Thai, and international cuisine.

Address: Nittawela Rd, Kandy, Sri Lanka, +94 11 2 888450

7. Kandy City Hotel

The Kandy City Hotel offers accommodation for those who do not want to sacrifice upscale comfort for affordability. With its central location and proximity to the railway station, the hotel provides easy access to all the main sights of the city.

Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the hotel and guests can enjoy Sri Lankan, Asian, and European cuisine at the on-site restaurant, browse the souvenir shop, or rent a bicycle or car to venture into the nearby mountain areas.

Address: 37, Yatinuwara Street, Kandy, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka, +94 81 222 0002

8. Royal Tourist Lodge

Surrounded by lush greenery, the Royal Tourist Lodge is run by a Sri Lankan family and offers comfortable stays just a stone’s throw away from the central parts of the city. The warm atmosphere, homey feel, and comfortable rooms make this place a popular option for tourists.

Both Sri Lankan and Western dishes are available at the restaurant, and staff at the 24-hour front desk are more than happy to assist with enquiries or help organise trips. All rooms come with air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and other amenities.

Address: Rajapihilla Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka, +94 81 2 222534

9. Anna Shanti Villa

Situated near the magnificent Kandy Lake, the Anna Shanti Villa is a hotel with an excellent reputation, quality rooms, and friendly staff. The seven rooms are fitted with en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning to provide modern comforts, and comes at a reasonable price.

Visitors are greeted with freshly brewed tea in the morning, and can retreat to the garden to enjoy the surroundings. The dining room serves international and Sri Lankan dishes, and the hotel staff are willing to assist with any queries and requests.

Address: Rajapihilla Terrace Rd, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka

10. The Richmond House Kandy

The three-star Richmond House Kandy is a few kilometres from the city, tucked away in the picturesque hillside. The colonial villa reflects the sophistication and grandeur of a long-gone era while incorporating modern luxuries. With 24-hour service, a garden, panoramic views, and outstanding service, guests should be well satisfied.

Address: 195/56, Richmond Hill Place, Heerassagala, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka

 
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• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kandy
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• https://www.lonelyplanet.com/sri-lanka/the-hill-country/kandy
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• http://www.traveller.com.au/a-fiveminute-guide-to-kandy-in-sri-lanka-giw5lw
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Relic_of_the_tooth_of_the_Buddha
• http://www.btrts.org.sg/temple-sacred-buddha-tooth-relic-stupa/
• http://amazinglanka.com/wp/kandy/
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• https://www.jaffnaroyalfamily.org/kingdomkandyhistory.html
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Relics_associated_with_Buddha
• https://srilankatraveladventures.wordpress.com/destinations-travel-guides/kandy-sri-lanka/how-to-get-to-kandy-and-away/
• http://www.everyculture.com/Sa-Th/Sri-Lanka.html
• https://www.insightguides.com/inspire-me/blog/sri-lankas-best-festivals
• https://lanka.com/events/kandy-esala-perahera/
• https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/southern-asia/sri-lanka/sri-lanka-customs-and-culture

 
For more interesting information:

• Wonderful Lumbini
• Wonderful Nepal
• 8 Holy Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites – Part 1
• 8 Holy Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites – Part 2
• Must visit Bodhgaya – The Navel of the World
• Pilgrimage Through India & Nepal
• Wonderful Japan – Tokyo
• Wonderful Korea – Jeju
• Wonderful Bhutan
• Pilgrimage to Sarnath, Varanasi
• Important Sites of Buddhist Pilgrimage – Kushinagar, India
• Avalokiteshvara in Sri Lanka
• The Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Wonderful Cambodia
• Ganden Sumtseling Monastery the beautiful
• Power Place: Jog Falls

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