Kandy

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

This is the most sacred Buddhist shrine in Sri Lanka, housing the relic of the tooth of the Buddha. Located within the former royal palace complex, the temple is a masterpiece of Kandyan architecture with intricate wood carvings and golden canopies. For foreign adults, the entrance fee is currently LKR 2,000 (approx. $7), while children under 15 enter for free. It is highly recommended to visit during the “Thewawa” (offering) ceremonies, which take place daily at dawn, mid-morning, and dusk, to witness the vibrant drumming and spiritual devotion of the pilgrims.

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

Once a pleasure garden for Kandyan queens, these gardens are the largest and most spectacular in Sri Lanka, spanning 147 acres. They are world-renowned for their collection of orchids, the towering Royal Palm Avenue, and the massive Java Fig tree. The entrance fee for foreign adults is LKR 3,000 (approx. $10), while children between 5 and 12 years are charged LKR 1,500 (approx. $5). For a more leisurely and luxury-focused experience, guests can rent an electric buggy for approximately LKR 2,000 ($6) per hour to explore the sprawling grounds in comfort.

Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

Standing at 88 feet, this towering white Buddha statue is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Kandy, visible from almost everywhere in the city. The hilltop location offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and the surrounding mountains. The entrance fee for foreign visitors is approximately LKR 250 to LKR 500 (approx. $1 – $2). While the climb to the top of the viewing platform involves stairs, a tuk-tuk can take your clients directly to the temple gate. It is best visited at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle below.

Kandyan Cultural Dance Show

A visit to Kandy is incomplete without witnessing a traditional cultural show, featuring high-energy drumming, masked dances, and spectacular fire-walking. These performances are typically held daily at 5:00 PM at venues like the Kandy Lake Club or the YMCA. Tickets for foreign adults generally cost between $10 and $15 (approx. LKR 3,000 – 4,500), while children’s tickets are roughly half price. These shows provide a vibrant and condensed look at the island’s rich folklore and the unique “Kandyan” style of dance that is central to Sri Lankan identity.

Ceylon Tea Museum (Hantana)

Located in a restored 1925 vintage tea factory just a few kilometers from the city, this museum offers a deep dive into the history of tea in Sri Lanka. It features antique tea-processing machinery and exhibits on pioneers like James Taylor. The entrance fee for foreign adults is approximately LKR 1,200 (approx. $4), and for children, it is LKR 600. The visit concludes on the top floor with a complimentary cup of premium tea in a tasting room that offers sweeping views of the Hantana mountain range, making it a sophisticated stop for any tea enthusiast.