Exploring the Ancient City of Kandy

Kandy, the ancient city of Sri Lanka, is a place of history, beauty and culture. From its rich heritage to its stunning natural beauty, Kandy has something for everyone. It is a place of peace and harmony, and a place to explore the ancient culture and architecture of Sri Lanka. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating history, culture and attractions of Kandy, and discover why this city is so special.

A Brief History of Kandy

Kandy was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Kandy, which was established in the 14th century. For centuries, Kandy was a centre of power in Sri Lanka, with the ruling monarchs and nobles residing in the city. In 1815, the British annexed the Kingdom of Kandy and made it part of the British Empire. After independence in 1948, Kandy remained an important centre of culture, religion and education. Today, Kandy is a bustling city, with a population of over 200,000 people.

Kandy is renowned for its rich culture and heritage, which dates back to the days of the ancient kingdom. The city is home to some of the most important religious and cultural sites in Sri Lanka, such as the Temple of the Tooth, the Royal Palace and the Kandy Lake. In addition, Kandy is known for its beautiful landscape, with lush green hills and tea plantations surrounding the city.

Kandy is also known for its vibrant music and dance culture, which is still celebrated today. The city is home to the annual Kandy Perahera, a traditional procession of drums and dancers, which takes place every year in July or August.

Where to Stay in Kandy

Kandy is a popular tourist destination, and there are a variety of accommodation options to choose from. From luxury hotels to budget hostels, there is something to suit every traveller’s needs. One of the most popular places to stay in Kandy is the Kandy City Hotel, which is located in the heart of the city. This hotel offers luxurious rooms, a swimming pool and a spa, as well as a variety of dining options.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of hostels and guesthouses in Kandy. One of the best is the Kandy Hostel, which offers comfortable rooms with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, as well as an outdoor pool and a restaurant. There are also a number of campgrounds and camping sites in Kandy, which provide a great way to experience the natural beauty of the city.

No matter where you stay in Kandy, you are sure to find a comfortable and welcoming place to stay.

Things to Do in Kandy

Kandy is a city of culture and history, and there is plenty to see and do. One of the most popular attractions is the Temple of the Tooth, which is a sacred Buddhist temple that houses a tooth relic of the Buddha. The temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a popular place for pilgrims.

Another popular attraction is the Royal Palace, which is the former home of the ancient kings of Kandy. The palace was built in the 17th century and is now a museum, which displays a variety of artefacts and artwork from the royal family. The palace is open to the public and visitors can explore the gardens and view the grand architecture of the building.

In addition, Kandy is home to a variety of other attractions, such as the Kandy Lake, the National Museum, and the Udawatta Kele forest. There are also plenty of activities to do in Kandy, such as trekking, mountain biking, and white-water rafting.

Kandy Markets

Kandy is home to some of the most vibrant markets in Sri Lanka. The Kandy Central Market is a bustling marketplace with a variety of stalls selling local produce, spices, and souvenirs. The Kandy Bazaar is another popular market, located in the heart of the city. Here, visitors can find a variety of items, from clothes and jewellery to traditional handicrafts.

In addition, the Kandy City Market is a great place to find local specialities such as spices, fruits, and vegetables. The market is a great place to sample some of the local cuisine, as many of the vendors offer free samples of their wares.

The markets in Kandy are also great places to pick up souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home.

Kandy Nightlife

Kandy is a city that comes alive at night, and there is plenty of nightlife to be enjoyed. The city centre is home to a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants, which offer a great way to experience the vibrant nightlife of Kandy. One of the most popular spots is the Kandy City Club, which is a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists alike.

Kandy also has a lively arts scene, with a variety of galleries, theatres and performance venues. The Kandy Cultural Centre is a popular venue for performances and events, and it is also home to the Kandy International Film Festival, which takes place every year in October.

No matter what kind of nightlife you’re looking for, Kandy has something to offer everyone.

Shopping in Kandy

Kandy is a great place to shop, with a variety of shops, boutiques and markets. The city centre is home to a range of stores, from high-end boutiques to local markets. The Kandy Central Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs, as it offers a variety of items from local artisans. In addition, there are a number of shopping malls in Kandy, such as the Liberty Plaza Shopping Mall, which offers a variety of international and local brands.

Kandy is also known for its vibrant street markets, which offer a great way to experience the local culture. The Kandy Bazaar is a popular street market, where visitors can find a variety of items, from clothing and jewellery to traditional handicrafts.

No matter what you’re looking for, Kandy has something to offer everyone.

Eating Out in Kandy

Kandy has a thriving culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants and cafes offering a range of cuisines. From traditional Sri Lankan dishes to international cuisine, there is something to suit every palate. One of the most popular spots is the Kandy City Restaurant, which offers a range of local and international dishes, as well as a variety of drinks. The Kandy Spice Garden is another popular spot, offering traditional Sri Lankan dishes in a beautiful garden setting.

Kandy is also home to a variety of street food vendors, offering a range of local delicacies such as rice and curry, kottu roti and samosas. The Kandy Night Market is a great place to sample these dishes, as well as a variety of other street food.

No matter what kind of food you’re looking for, Kandy has something to offer everyone.

Outdoor Activities in Kandy

Kandy is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. From trekking and mountain biking to white-water rafting and kayaking, there is something for everyone. The Udawatta Kele forest is a popular spot for trekking, with a variety of trails to explore. The Kandy Lake is another popular spot, where visitors can enjoy boat rides and views of the city.

Kandy is also home to a variety of waterfalls and rivers, which offer great opportunities for swimming and fishing. The Mahaweli River is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking, and it is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as monkeys, birds and deer.

No matter what your interests, Kandy has something to offer everyone.

Conclusion

Kandy is a city of history, culture and beauty, and it is a great place to explore the ancient culture of Sri Lanka. From its rich heritage to its vibrant nightlife, Kandy has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget hostel, there is something to suit your needs. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant markets and outdoor activities, Kandy is the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and explore the ancient city of Kandy.