Kandy is a beautiful and historic city in central Sri Lanka, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and religious significance. It was the last capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom before falling to British rule in 1815.

Key Attractions in Kandy

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) – One of the most sacred Buddhist sites, housing a relic of the Buddha’s tooth.
• Kandy Lake – A scenic lake in the heart of the city, perfect for a relaxing walk.
• Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens – A stunning botanical garden with over 4,000 species of plants, including giant bamboo and orchids.
• Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue – A large Buddha statue on a hill offering panoramic views of Kandy.
• Udawattakele Forest Reserve – A peaceful nature reserve with hiking trails and diverse wildlife.
• Kandy Esala Perahera – An annual grand festival featuring traditional dances, fire performances, and elephants parading through the streets.

Why Visit Kandy?

• It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• It has a mix of history, culture, and nature.
• It's the gateway to Sri Lanka’s tea country and the scenic Ella and Nuwara Eliya regions.

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History of Kandy, Sri Lanka

Kandy, the last capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom, has a rich history marked by resistance against colonial rule, religious significance, and cultural heritage. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical importance.

Ancient and Medieval Period

• Kandy was originally known as Senkadagalapura, named after a hermit called Senkanda.
• It became an important city in the 14th century under King Vikramabahu III of Gampola.
• Kandy later became a stronghold of Sinhalese kings who resisted foreign invasions.

Kingdom of Kandy (1473 - 1815)

• The Kingdom of Kandy was established in the late 15th century.
• It remained independent while the Portuguese, Dutch, and British controlled the coastal areas of Sri Lanka.
• King Vimaladharmasuriya I (1590–1604) brought the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha to Kandy, making it the religious center of the island.
• The kingdom successfully resisted several invasions by Portuguese (16th century) and Dutch (17th century) forces.

British Rule and Fall of the Kingdom (1815)

• The British defeated the last king of Kandy, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha, in 1815 through the Kandyan Convention.
• The British took control of the entire island, ending over 2,300 years of Sinhalese monarchy.
• The Uva Rebellion (1817-1818) was a failed attempt by locals to regain independence.

Modern Kandy

• Today, Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, famous for its Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
• It hosts the annual Esala Perahera, a grand Buddhist festival with traditional performances and elephant parades.
• The city preserves Sinhalese traditions, arts, and architecture while embracing modern development.