🗺️ Your Day in Kandy: Exclusive Itinerary Inside!

☀️ Discover Kandy: Unveil Its Charm. 

In central Sri Lanka nestled between the mountain ranges of Knuckles and Hanthana lies the country’s second largest city - Kandy. The city of kings is an abundance of culture, history, famous tea plantations, cheeky monkeys, and lets not forget; one of the most breath-taking train journeys in the world. With its misty and magical backdrop Kandy is the ultimate playground for the wondering traveller.

☀️ Start the day off right

Standing tall and visible across the city is the impressive Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue. Built in 1992 after some protest from neighbouring temples, this statue is the tallest in Kandy. Once you reach the summit of the statue after the steep climb the views are breath-taking. Designed to sit in the meditation position of Dhyana Mudra, the whole experience has a feeling of relaxation and spirituality.

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth is an UNSECO world heritage site and is home to the Scared Tooth Relic of Gautama Buddha. Its architecture is a mix of unique styles and the temple itself is guarded by two granite golden statues. Three times a day (6am, 10am & 6pm), ceremonies filled with prayers, and offerings take place. During this time, you can experience the tooth’s golden case being taken out of its chamber.

In the heart of the city lies Kandy Lake. An artificial lake from the 1800’s which neighbours The Temple of the Sacred Tooth. A 2.1km walkway allows for an easy stroll around this luscious lake. If your lucky you may even get the opportunity to meet some of the monkeys who frequent this part of the city.

☀️ Time for Brunch!

Hela Bojun Hala is a vibrant street food market which offers the chance to sample many Sri Lankan dishes from a number of vendors. The aroma of Sinhalese flavours fills the air. Local favourites such as Sri Lankan rice and curry, coconut roti’s, and even sweet kimbula buns are on offer until late evening.

☀️ Post-Brunch fun

A visit to Sri Lanka is not complete unless you sample some of its famous teas and the Ceylon Tea Museum near the Hanthana Mountain offers a tour of the process. With a dedicated gift shop to showcase every tea they produce, the staff are on hand to let you sample their catalogue of flavours and find you the perfect batch to take home.

☀️ Ideas for Souvenirs

Although this souvenir recommendation may seem obvious giving that Kandy is the home to tea production, it is a must have gift that you can not leave Kandy without - Loose Sri Lankan tea.

☀️ Plans for the evening

Cultural dance is an ever popular choice of entertainment in Sri Lanka. The Kandy Lake Club which has been performing since 1982 hosts a show which brings the many varieties of Sri Lankan dance together. With typical traditional Sri Lankan music and colourful costumes, this in an experience that will give warmth to the soul.

For a dining experience to remember, the Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar in the hills of Kandy is the number one choice. Accessible via tuk tuk, this restaurant offers a large Chinese inspired menu. The Sichuan beef stew is truly mouth-watering. After dinner, why not enjoy the views from the terrace accompanied by a cocktail and enjoy the DJ entertainment on offer. This truly is the perfect spot to end your day.

☀️ Off the Beaten Path

The Yoga Reiki Meditation experience in Kandy is the perfect place to unwind after being engulfed by the spiritual culture that surrounds the city. This experience is the ultimate way to channel your energy and experience soothing spirituality and relaxation.

☀️ Where do I stay

Kandy has a variety of different styles of accommodation to suit every budget. Close to the center of town, near The Temple of the Sacred Tooth is Helga’s Folly. A 16 room hotel that boasts a swimming pool surrounded by the jungle. Rooms begin at $164 per night. On the opposite end of the budget at $12 per night is the Kandy Hill Escape. Located a little further out of town behind the giant Buddha statue, this guesthouse is perfect for tranquility and price.

☀️ Get ready for Kandy

It is safe to say that Kandy has a multitude of cultural experiences on offer. Its traditions are prominent at every turn. Being in the middle of the mountains gives that jungle experience and the opportunity to meet some cheeky monkeys along the way. All in all Kandy is a magical stop for any traveller. As your time in Kandy comes to an end, don’t forget the final offering from this phenomenal place – the most jaw dropping train ride leaving the city behind and embarking on a jungle expedition to your next destination.  

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Heading to Kandy? ✈️ Land at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and trust Kiwi for economical travel advice and special offers. Start your Kandy adventure with Kiwi to discover the city's landmarks in the most cost-effective way.

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