The last seat of the ancient Sinhalese kings, the attractive upland city of Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains the stunning Temple of the Tooth Relic, the country’s top Buddhist site found next to a large scenic lake. After a temple visit, it is well worth strolling through town to catch the relaxed atmosphere and enjoy its pleasant climate.
A visit to nearby Udawattakale, the forbidden forest of the ancient Kandyan kings, should reveal quarrelsome troops of dusky toque macaques and an impressive variety of bird species.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, near Kandy, occupies 146 acres of spice plants, palms, orchids and giant tropical trees, totalling 4000 species. Dating back to the 14th Century, it is Sri Lanka’s premier botanical garden and a must for plant enthusiasts, especially those keen on orchids.
