Articles by tag Kandy
Explore Kandy's UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka's holiest Buddhist shrine.
Located a short distance from Matale town, the Aluvihare Cave Temple is one of the most significant Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. It marks a turning point in Buddhist history, as it was here that the Tripitaka (Buddhist scriptures) were committed to writing in the 1st century BC during the reign of King Walagamba. This sacred cave temple is not only a religious site but also a cultural and historical treasure, attracting visitors interested in Buddhism, ancient manuscripts, and Sri Lankan heritage.
Nestled 27 km from Kandy, Hanguranketha is a historically significant town in Sri Lanka's Nuwara Eliya district. Known as a royal refuge, it sheltered the Sacred Tooth Relic during times of instability in the Kandyan Kingdom. Home to historic temples, colorful Esala Perahera processions, and scenic tea plantations, Hanguranketha is a must-visit for history lovers and travelers.
Tucked away in the Hewaheta region of Sri Lanka, Nilambe holds a special place in the history of the Kandyan Kingdom. Once a royal rest house and retreat, it was not only a place of relaxation for the kings but also served as a defensive stronghold against invasions. With its verdant mountain surroundings, Nilambe remains a hidden gem, offering both historical insights and breathtaking natural beauty.
Sri Lanka is home to many ancient temples that reflect its deep-rooted Buddhist and Hindu heritage. Among these, the Gadaladeniya Temple, Embekke Devale, and Lankatilaka Vihara, built during the 14th century, stand as remarkable testaments to Gampola-era architecture and craftsmanship. Located near Kandy, these temples are must-visit destinations for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers.
Tucked away in Kundasale, Kandy, Galmaduwa Viharaya is an intriguing unfinished shrine that showcases a remarkable blend of stone and brick construction. Built during the reign of King Kirthi Sri Rajasingha, this architectural wonder follows the Gedige tradition, a rare style of Sri Lankan temple design. Despite never being completed, Galmaduwa has become a popular attraction for history enthusiasts and photographers alike
The Kandy Esala Perahera, also known as the Sri Dalada Procession, is one of Sri Lanka’s grandest festivals, held annually in Kandy. This magnificent event showcases a procession of beautifully adorned elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, fire performers, and whip dancers, making it one of the most breathtaking Buddhist festivals in the world. The 10-day festival is a celebration honoring the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which is housed in the famous Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
Tucked away in Kotugodella Street, a historic part of Kandy city, lies the Kataragama Devale, a temple dedicated to God Kataragama (Skandha)—one of Sri Lanka’s four guardian deities. Although historical records about its construction are scarce, it is believed to have been built in the 16th century.
Kandy, the last capital of Sri Lanka’s monarchy, is home to the Raja Maligawa, or Royal Palace of Kandy. This historic site, once the residence of the last King of Kandy, Sri Wickrama Rajasingha, is a must-visit for those interested in Sri Lanka’s regal past.