Sri Lanka Travel: 5 Best Things To Experience in Kandy

Kandy, the soulful heart of Sri Lanka's hill country, swept me off my feet the moment I arrived. The cool air, forested hills, and spiritual pulse make this city feel like a place frozen in time, in the most beautiful way possible.If you're planning a Sri Lanka trip, Kandy must be high on your list! Let me walk you through my top 5 favorite experiences-all based on my unforgettable journey.

1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - A Spiritual Awakening in Sri Lanka

This is more than just a temple-it's the sacred soul of Kandy and a must-visit during your Sri Lanka journey. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic houses a tooth of the Buddha, and you can feel the spiritual energy in the air the second you walk in.

I went during the evening puja (ceremony), and wow- chanting monks, rhythmic drumming, flickering oil lamps-it was surreal. Even if you're not religious, the energy is magnetic. You leave feeling grounded and strangely calm.

2. Stroll around Kandy Lake - Peaceful Moments

Right outside the temple, I found my favorite lazy stroll in all of Sri Lanka-Kandy Lake. With its peaceful waters, swaying trees, and occasional sightings of giant monitor lizards (yes, they're harmless!), It's the perfect spot to unwind.

I walked the loop during the golden hour, with birds singing and temple bells ringing in the distance. It was one of those "I could live here" kind of moments.

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya - A Nature Escape

Just 15 minutes from Kandy city center, these gardens are like stepping into a jungle paradise curated by an artist. Towering palm avenues, exotic orchids, and massive trees with roots like tentacles-it's wild and beautiful all at once.

I spent over three hours wandering, lying on the grass, and pretending I was in a fairytale. If you love plants, photography, or breathing fresh air, this is a must-visit spot during your Sri Lanka trip.

4. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha - Best Sunset Views in Kandy

Towering over the city is a serene, white Buddha statue at Bahirawakanda Viharaya. Getting there was an adventure-a bumpy tuk-tuk ride up a winding road-but the view at the top made it all worth it.

I arrived just before sunset, and as the sky turned orange and the city lit up below, I felt like I was watching a dream unfold. Don't miss this iconic experience when in Sri Lanka!

Kandyan Cultural Dance Show - Feel the Beat of Sri Lanka

To truly feel Kandy's heartbeat, you have to catch a cultural dance performance. I wasn't sure what to expect, but it turned out to be one of the most electric nights of my trip.Drums, spinning dancers, elaborate costumes -and yes, fire walking!

Final Thoughts on Kandy, Sri Lanka

Kandy isn't about rushing from site to site-it's about soaking in the soul of Sri Lanka. These five experiences gave me a deep, colorful, and spiritual taste of what this magical hill town has to offer.

If you ever plan your escape to Sri Lanka, drop a comment. I'd love to help you fall in love with it too!