1. What are some must-visit historical landmarks in Kandy?
Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Temple of the Tooth, Royal Palace of Kandy, Gadaladeniya Temple, Lankatilaka Temple.
2. Can you recommend any scenic sightseeing spots around Kandy?
Yes, some recommended scenic sightseeing spots around Kandy include the Temple of the Tooth, Udawatte Kele Sanctuary, Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue, Royal Botanical Gardens, and Kandy Lake.
3. How do I get to the Royal Palace of Kandy?
The Royal Palace of Kandy can be reached by following the directions provided by a map or asking locals for directions. It is located in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
4. Is it possible to tour the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic?
Yes, it is possible to tour the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Visitors are allowed to enter the temple and view the sacred tooth relic on specific days and times. However, photography and physical contact with the relic are not permitted.
5. Are there any guided tours available for exploring Kandy’s historical sites?
Yes, there are guided tours available for exploring Kandy’s historical sites.
6. Which historical site in Kandy offers the best views of the city?
The historical site in Kandy that offers the best views of the city is the Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
7. Can you tell me more about the history and significance of Gadaladeniya Temple?
Gadaladeniya Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Sri Lanka, specifically in the ancient city of Kandy. It was built during the 14th century by King Buwanekabahu IV and is considered one of the oldest stone temples in the country.
The temple follows the Dravidian architectural style, which was brought to Sri Lanka by South Indian craftsmen during that time. It is believed that these craftsmen were also responsible for the construction of other famous temples in Sri Lanka.
One of the most significant aspects of Gadaladeniya Temple is its connection to Buddhism. It is said that a sacred tooth relic of Buddha was enshrined in a gold casket at this temple before it was eventually moved to its current location at the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. This adds to the historical and religious significance of Gadaladeniya Temple.
In addition, Gadaladeniya Temple also has intricate carvings and paintings depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology, making it a popular tourist attraction for those interested in art and history.
Over time, Gadaladeniya Temple has undergone renovations and restorations, but it remains an important landmark for both Buddhists and tourists alike. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a must-visit site when exploring the ancient city of Kandy.
8. Are there any museums or art galleries worth visiting in Kandy?
Yes, there are several museums and art galleries worth visiting in Kandy. Some notable ones include the National Museum of Kandy, which showcases the cultural and historical heritage of Sri Lanka, the Kandy Museum of Archaeology with its collection of ancient artifacts, and the Sri Dalada Maligawa Art Gallery inside the Temple of the Tooth Relic. There are also many smaller art galleries scattered around the city featuring traditional and contemporary artwork by local artists.
9. What is the best way to explore the ancient ruins of Sigiriya from Kandy?
The best way to explore the ancient ruins of Sigiriya from Kandy is by taking a guided tour or hiring a private driver to take you there. It is also possible to take public transportation, such as a bus, but it may be more time-consuming and less convenient.
10. Can I visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage while staying in Kandy?
Yes, it is possible to visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage while staying in Kandy. The orphanage is located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Kandy by car and there are also public transportation options available. It is recommended to book a tour or hire a private driver to visit the orphanage as it can be challenging to navigate there on your own.
11. What is so special about Nuwara Eliya, one of the popular sightseeing destinations near Kandy?
Nuwara Eliya is well-known for its cool climate, beautiful landscapes, and lush green tea plantations, making it a popular sightseeing destination near Kandy. It is often referred to as “Little England” due to its colonial-era bungalows, gardens, and horse racing events. Additionally, Nuwara Eliya offers stunning views of waterfalls and mountains, as well as activities such as hiking and boating. Its rich history and cultural heritage also make it a unique and special place to visit.
12. Is a day trip to Dambulla from Kandy feasible for sightseeing purposes?
Yes, a day trip to Dambulla from Kandy is feasible for sightseeing purposes. It takes approximately 2 hours to drive from Kandy to Dambulla, and there are many popular attractions in Dambulla such as the Golden Temple and Dambulla Cave Temple that can be visited in a day. However, it is recommended to start early in the morning to make the most of your time.
13. Are there any cultural performances or festivals in Kandy that showcase its history and traditions?
Yes, there are several cultural performances and festivals in Kandy that showcase its history and traditions. One of the most famous is the annual Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand religious procession that celebrates the arrival of Buddhism to Sri Lanka and pays homage to the sacred tooth relic housed at the Temple of the Tooth. Other festivals include the Kandy Avurudu Uthsawaya (New Year Festival) and Vesak Poya celebrations, which both feature traditional music, dance, and food. Cultural performances such as traditional dances like Kandyan and Sabaragamuwa as well as drumming ceremonies can also be enjoyed throughout the year in Kandy.
14. How can I arrange a visit to Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue, one of the famous landmarks in Kandy’s skyline?
To arrange a visit to Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue, you can start by researching the location and opening hours of the landmark. Then, you can make transportation arrangements to Kandy and find a place to stay near the statue. Once you arrive in Kandy, you can either walk or take a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach the statue. It is open to visitors during daytime hours. Some tour companies also offer guided tours to the statue. You may also want to dress modestly and observe respectful behavior while visiting the sacred site.
15. What are some off-the-beaten-path historical sites around Kandy that are worth exploring?
Some off-the-beaten-path historical sites around Kandy that are worth exploring are the Embekka Devalaya, a 14th century wooden temple; Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Vihara, a Buddhist monastery built in the 14th century; Lankatilaka Vihara, a stunning brick and stone temple from the 14th century; and Suduhumpola Temple, known for its giant Buddha statue and intricate murals. These sites offer a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and architectural history.
16. Is it possible to combine a visit to Horton Plains National Park with sightseeing in and around Kandy?
Yes, it is possible to combine a visit to Horton Plains National Park with sightseeing in and around Kandy. Both destinations are located within close proximity to each other in Sri Lanka and can be easily accessed by car or public transportation. Many tour companies offer packages that include visits to both locations, allowing visitors to enjoy the breathtaking scenery at Horton Plains and explore the rich cultural and historical sites in Kandy. However, due to the distance between the two areas, it is recommended to plan for at least a multi-day trip in order to fully experience both destinations.
17. Are private tours available for exploring lesser-known temples and monuments in and around Kandy?
Yes, private tours are available for exploring lesser-known temples and monuments in and around Kandy.
18. Can you recommend any scenic walking trails for experiencing nature and history simultaneously near Kandy?
Yes, there are several scenic walking trails near Kandy that offer a perfect blend of nature and history. One popular option is the Udawattekele Sanctuary, located just outside of Kandy city. This sanctuary features lush greenery and diverse wildlife, as well as historic temples and ruins dating back to the 1800s.
Another option is the Hanthana Mountain Range, which has multiple hiking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and ancient ruins of temples and caves used by Buddhist monks centuries ago. Both these options provide the opportunity to immerse oneself in nature while also learning about Sri Lanka’s rich cultural past.
19.Can you suggest any unique or hidden gems that most tourists miss when sightseeing around Kandy?
Yes, the Suriya Village tourism village and the Lankatilaka temple are two unique and hidden gems that most tourists miss when sightseeing around Kandy.
20.What is the best way to learn about the local traditions and customs while visiting historical landmarks in and around Kandy?
The best way to learn about the local traditions and customs while visiting historical landmarks in and around Kandy is by engaging with locals, hiring a knowledgeable tour guide, and participating in cultural experiences or festivals. You can also do your own research beforehand and read about the history and significance of the landmarks. Observing the behavior of others and being respectful of local customs will also help you gain insight into the traditions of the region.