Festivillian: Music, Art, Culture

Although this UNESCO World Heritage Site has its fair share of modern necessities, it was once a part of Sri Lanka that was an impenetrable fort, and one of the last kingdoms that remained until 1815 when it was taken by the British. Known to have been a network of paths and trails, it took the British 11 years to actually build a road linking Kandy to Colombo. Still retaining much of its charm and cantor, Kandy proffers pleasant weather, rolling hills, historical relics, and religious sites and is the grounds for an important cultural festival on the Sri Lankan calendar, called the Esela Perahera.

Famous for the Esela Perahera which takes place during the months of July/August in Kandy, visitors can expect to see a delightful parade of more than 50  elaborately dressed elephants, dancers and chieftans that accompany Lord Buddha's tooth relic that is taken in procession through the city. Possibly one of Kandy's biggest draws is the temple that holds a tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Devotees and those wishing to pay religious observances visit the temple known as 'Dalada Maligawa' or 'Temple of the Tooth'. Tourists and non-Buddhist may also visit this temple; however it is advised that they be modestly dressed. The interiors of the temple are striking with wood, ivory and lacquer.

Situated 6 kilometres south of city is the islands largest botanical gardens called the Royal Botanical Gardens. These 40 hectare gardens once belonged to a Kandyan Queen. Numerous indigenous foliage and fauna can be found here; whilst it proves as a great escape in to lush greenery there are also several picnics spots to choose from.

Whilst the city proves to have a rich source of things to do and sights to see, the natural surroundings provide great avenues for hiking and exploration. The journey that takes you to the hill capital will take you pass beautiful waterfalls and tea estates. It is not a rare sight to see tea pluckers in the early hours of the morning, picking the fresh tea leaves in their colourful attire. Enjoy the ride there, which can be taken by car or public transport routes like train and bus. It is enchanting to see the stark change in scenery once you leave the bustling city and find yourself in the blessed and bountiful city called Kandy.

It is no wonder that Kandy is called 'Maha Nuwara' in Sinhalese which can be translated to mean 'The Great City'. Take time to explore this cultural capital of Sri Lanka that is cloaked in history. When looking for accommodation in Kandy that gives you excellent service and easy access to explore this historic city, John Keells Hotels Group would be an obvious choice from the many Kandy hotels.

About the Author:

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Author: Pushpitha Wijesinghe