Kandy, Sri Lanka
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Sights to See
- Temple of the Tooth Relic or Sri Dalada Maligawa - the most famous "must-see" sight in Kandy. It is the home of a very important Buddhist relic, the sacred tooth of Buddha, which is shown to the public once in every six years. On ordinary days, only caskets containing the small sacred item can be seen. Various golden Buddha statues and ostentatious decorations can be seen in the place. There is also a garden where some elephants are kept and an audience hall where some dances are performed during some special occasions.
- Kandy Lake - a man made lake which legend says has been a burial ground for the rivals of the king before it was filled with water. Almost of the Kandy life revolves around it as it is near to the Temple of the Tooth Relic where most people gather and meet. The lake is considered holy and is not used for bathing or swimming. Boats are rented though for those who like to reach the other end of town.
- Botanical Gardens Kandy is famous for Botanical Gardens with the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens as the most visited and well known through out Sri Lanka. It was once used by royalties as pleasure garden and had a wealthy collection of palms, ferns, and orchids.
- Paththirippuwa - so called as Octagon, it was a former British prison which has now been turned into alibrary and home to several ancient manuscripts or "olas". It also has a Buddhist shrine having a crystal statue of Buddha.
Shopping Spree
Kandy is not really a shopper's paradise but for those who want to enjoy nature. There are some shops which sells some local crafts for souvenirs such as elephant porcelains. Kandy is quite famous for Batiks or woven cloths which can be used as wall decors or clothings and you can visit several shops and even witness its making. Although not really a tea producing county, various teas can be bought in the local market and some shops of Kandy.
Accommodations
Five and Four Stars Hotel
Earl Regency - Located atop a hill thus offers good view of lush surrounding. It has also several gardens and a pool for some relaxation. Prices are a bit high but they offer several types of rooms quite a big range in prices. Address is at Kundasale, Kandy Sri Lanka.
Mahaweli Reach Hotel notable for service and river-side location. Address is at P B A Weerakoon Mawatha, Kandy.
Tree of Life a break from the monotony of high rising hotels as this offers you bungalow type accommodation in a sort of jungle-like environment yet with luxurious touches. Address is at Yahalatenna Barigama, Kandy Sri Lanka.
Two and Three Stars
Victoria Lodge Resort - although named as resort, there is no pool nor beach nearby. Prices are of good value though considering they provide hot bath and tubs with dvd's and a t.v. Address is at Haragama Estate P.O., KANDY, Sri Lanka, 20000, LK.
Hunas Falls - Located amidst tea and spice plantation with some cascading waterfalls and trout-full lakes. This place is recommendable for nature lovers and those who simply want to relax. Nearby is Hunasgiriya Peak and Simpson's Forest for those who wish some climb and trekking and a mini golf course who wants to have a swings. Address is Elkaduwa, Kandy Sri Lanka, a bit out of the city.
Backpackers and Budget Lodge
Kandy View Hotel - Good views and cheap lodging price are the pros. Some people find the food a bit expensive and not too satisfying though. Well for some who would be out often, then it would be a good place to sleep in and wake up to, seeing the green surrounding bathed in the sun. Address is at 40/22 Hillpankandura, Ampitiya Road.
Olde Empire Hotel Close to the Temple of Tooth and offers the simple basic amenities.
Expedition Located at Saranankara Rd, south of the lake. A bit of the basic but they can arrange for good tours.
Dining Places
Eatmore - restaurant serving halal meat dishes at an affordable price. Located next to the lake.
The Pub quite famous with foreigners, and also recommended by other travel site, and price is targeted for such too. Agood venue to meet fellow tourists and enjoy the street scene from the balcony of the restaurant. Food is basically a mix of international and local dishes. Address is at
Paiva's Restaurant - a restaurant of Shangrila, serves good Indian and Chinese food at reasonable price. Address is at # 37, Yatinuwara Veediya, Kandy, Sri Lanka.
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