Why Kandy Is Sri Lanka’s Cultural Capital?

Affectionately called the Hill Capital or the cultural gem of Sri Lanka, Kandy is a vibrant city sitting right in the heart of the Central Province. It’s surrounded by breathtaking mountainous terrains, making it one of the most picturesque cities on the island.

Kandy in a Nutshell

To get here, you can hop on a train. It will turn out to be more than just a commute: it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. As the train chugs along, you’ll be treated to the dramatic landscape outside your window – think rolling hills, lush greenery, and charming villages.

But here’s what’s magical: as you inch closer to Kandy, the majestic mountains will gradually unveil the mesmerising natural beauty that envelops Kandy – it’s a spectacle that’ll hold your gaze until the train finally comes to a halt.

Once you’re here, you’ll discover a world of quaint, narrow streets, and they’ve managed to retain their old-world charm.

Best Time to Visit

To explore Kandy to your heart’s content, save a spot on your calendar from January to March. These months are dry and characterised by clear skies, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Where to Stay

Kandy is a tourist hotspot, so as you’d expect, an array of accommodation options graces the city catering to every kind of traveller – be it a budget traveller or a luxury seeker. Homestays and hostels are a great choice for those on a budget, but there are plenty of Kandy hotels in Sri Lanka that indulge travellers seeking a balance between affordability, comfort, and luxury – places like Hotel Topaz are what you’re looking for.

Religious Attractions

The many remarkable cultural sites are a key reason why Kandy is celebrated as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Take Sri Dalada Maligawa, for example. Also known as the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Sri Dalada Maligawa receives both local and global reverence. It’s a pivotal point in the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit. What’s special about this temple? Well, the temple holds a unique treasure: the sacred relic of Buddha’s left canine tooth.

Sitting on the eastern edge of the city, overlooking the Kandy Lake, this ancient temple is an absolute must-visit. If you step inside the temple, you’ll find a worship hall and museum, all brimming with history and culture.

The best time to visit the temple is between July and August. Why? Well, this is when the city truly comes to life with the grand festivities of the Esala Perahera, a religious festival that holds great spiritual significance for Buddhists in the country.

The religious grandeur of Kandy goes beyond the Temple of Tooth Relic. You’ll discover similar experiences at Embekke Devalaya, Gadaladeniya, and Lankathilaka Temple.

Dancing and Drumming

Sri Lanka’s ancient dancing and drumming rituals are a truly magnificent spectacle not to be missed. Kandy, being the cultural capital of the island, holds at its heart the very roots of these traditional dancing and drumming performances.

A traditional Kandyan dance performance unfolds like this: dancers dressed in elaborate clothing and dazzling accessories, move gracefully to the beat of drums.   

During the era of British colonial rule, these performances saw a decline in popularity, but in the last few decades, they have made a comeback. Today, it’s celebrated as one of Kandy’s cultural treasures that hark back to a simpler time when tradition was the cornerstone of society.

A Royal Narrative

For a rich cultural experience, you must visit the Royal Palace. Dating all the way back to the 14th century, this historic complex holds so much history within its walls. It was the last royal residence ever to be constructed in Sri Lanka and has a fascinating story. It was once home to King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha, who was overthrown by the British in 1815.

So, what can you find within this magnificent complex? A journey back in time! You’ll discover the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Kandy, and the Temple of the Tooth Relic is part of the complex too!

The Royal Palace and the Temple of the Tooth steal the spotlight with their historical and cultural significance. But don't overlook the museum – it's a hidden gem. Inside, you'll find a captivating collection of artefacts and exhibits that span from the era of the Kandyan Kingdom to the post-colonial period in Kandy's history.