Cradled in the emerald hills of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Kandy is more than a city—it is the spiritual and cultural soul of the island. Revered as the last royal capital of the Sinhalese monarchy and home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy is a living testament to resilience, reverence, and regal grace. With its misty mountains, colonial charm, and vibrant traditions, Kandy invites travelers to step into a world where history breathes and heritage thrives.
The name Kandy is an anglicized version of the Sinhala phrase “Kanda Uda Rata”, meaning “the land on the mountain”. This reflects the city’s elevated geography—nestled at 500 meters above sea level and surrounded by lush hills. Historically, the city was known as Senkadagalapura, named after the ascetic Senkanda, who is said to have meditated in a cave in the nearby Udawatta Kele Forest. The full royal name, Senkadagala Siriwardhana Maha Nuwara, translates to “the great city of growing resplendence.”
Kandy was established as a capital in the 15th century by King Senasammata Vikramabahu, and it remained the last stronghold of Sinhalese sovereignty until it fell to the British in 1815. Despite colonial incursions, Kandy preserved its identity, becoming a sanctuary for Buddhism and a symbol of national pride.
As of 2025, Kandy city is home to approximately 120,087 residents, while the broader Kandy District boasts a population of over 1.4 million2. The city’s demographic composition is a vibrant mosaic:
This diversity is reflected in Kandy’s festivals, cuisine, architecture, and daily life—where mosques, temples, churches, and kovils coexist in harmony.
Kandy’s economy is a blend of tradition and modernity, shaped by its geography, heritage, and educational prominence:
Kandy’s hospitality scene blends colonial elegance, modern luxury, and eco-conscious design. Top-rated accommodations include
Kandy offers a rich tapestry of spiritual, natural, and cultural experiences:
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