Kandy, the former capital of the last Sinhalese kingdom, is a small city full of candy-coated colorful houses surrounded by green jungle hills, and it is the cultural center of Sri Lanka. Kandy was able to cling to its independence for a little longer after the rest of the island fell to colonization, which allowed it to maintain its own unique architecture, music and dance. A trip to Kandy is a trip to the heart of Sri Lanka.

Where To Stay
Staying in the center of Kandy makes seeing temples, dining and shopping a breeze because it enables you to walk to almost everything. The center is not that large, but it is full of life. If you have chosen to hire a driver for your stay in Sri Lanka, take advantage of the landscape and get lodging just outside the center along one of the gorgeous rolling hills. Accommodations among the hills are quiet, and if you’re lucky enough to have a terrace you will get the best views of Kandy and its surrounding areas, but without a driver it is difficult to get into town and to the attractions.

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What To Do

• Temple of the Tooth
  Considered the most sacred of all Buddhist temples, the Temple of the Tooth holds the relic of a tooth of Buddha. Because of its significance, this attraction is full of locals and tourists alike. There is a minimal entrance fee for tourists who visit this temple. A dress code mandates that knees and shoulders are to be covered, and shoes must be removed before entering the sacred temple. You are welcome to walk around the temple complex free of charge.

• Royal Palace of Kandy
  A dazzling large palace situated amongst the beautiful landscape of Kandy really showcases Sri Lankan architecture.  It used to be the home of royalty when Kandy was a kingdom. You are required to dress modestly, and to remove your shoes in some areas of the palace. Entrance to the palace is free of charge.
• The Ceylon Tea Museum
  The ancient Hantana Estate Tea Factory has been turned into an informational Sri Lankan tea museum. The museum is closed on Mondays but open from 08:30-16:30 Tuesday-Friday, and between 08:30-17:30 on Saturdays and Sundays. There are special discounts off the entrance fee for locals and students.
• Kandy Lake
  The lake is manmade and was created in 1807 by the last ruler of the kingdom of Kandy. A leisurely walk around the lake is not only peaceful, but it will bring you to many of the temples (including the Temple of the Tooth), museums and cafes.
• Visit a Spice Garden
  There are countless spice gardens surrounding Kandy. During my visit to a jungle spice garden, I learned a lot about natural healing techniques used in Sri Lanka.