Kandy is one of the most ancient and historically significant cities in Sri Lanka – in fact, it was the seat of the island’s last King! This means there’s a ton of amazing sights to see and take in here – so, here’s a look at some of the best things you can do if you have 24 hours to spend in Kandy.
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
This is without a doubt Kandy’s most famous attraction and among the most venerated temples on the entire island. There’s a lot of amazing art and architecture to take in here and there’s of course the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha that’s kept secure at the heart of the temple.
The Kandy Lake
If you’re touring through Kandy, Sri Lanka, you should definitely consider visiting Kandy Lake. This is an artificial lake that is surrounded by a tranquil atmosphere – it’s ideal for a spot of birdwatching or a pleasant picnic with the family.
The Botanical Gardens
A visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens is one of the best Kandy escapes you should try out. This is the largest garden of its kind in Sri Lanka and harbours hundreds of different plants that range from towering trees to delicate orchids.
Udawatte Kele Sanctuary
If you want to catch sight of Sri Lanka’s fascinating wildlife, you should definitely visit the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary that’s found near the outskirts of Kandy. Aside from all the animals found here, this forest also contains numerous ruins that can be dated back to the Kandyan Kingdom of old.