DRAG

Kandy: The Sacred Crown of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country

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 and Its Origins

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.

Population & Demographics

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:

  • Ethnic Groups: Predominantly Sinhalese, with significant communities of Sri Lankan Moors (Muslims), Sri Lankan Tamils, and Burghers.
  • Religious Composition: A majority of Buddhists, followed by Muslims, Hindus, and Christians, reflecting the city’s pluralistic spirit.
  • Median Age: Approximately 31 years, with a slightly higher female population (52.2%) than male (47.8%).

This diversity is reflected in Kandy’s festivals, cuisine, architecture, and daily life—where mosques, temples, churches, and kovils coexist in harmony.

Main Occupations & Local Economy

Kandy’s economy is a blend of tradition and modernity, shaped by its geography, heritage, and educational prominence:

  • Tourism & Hospitality: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kandy is a major tourist hub. Locals are engaged in hotels, guiding, handicrafts, and cultural performances, especially during the Esala Perahera season.
  • Education & Public Service: Home to the University of Peradeniya, Kandy is a center for academia and civil administration.
  • Agriculture & Tea: The surrounding hills are dotted with tea plantations, and many residents are involved in tea cultivation, spice farming, and horticulture.
  • Artisanal Trades: Traditional drumming, dancing, wood carving, and batik production continue to thrive, especially among families tied to the Temple of the Tooth Relic.

Signature Stays: Where to Sleep in Style

Kandy’s hospitality scene blends colonial elegance, modern luxury, and eco-conscious design. Top-rated accommodations include

  • The Grand Kandyan – A five-star hotel with regal interiors, rooftop dining, and proximity to the Temple of the Tooth.
  • Cinnamon Citadel Kandy – A riverside retreat offering serene views, fine dining, and curated experiences.
  • Radisson Hotel Kandy – A contemporary favorite with panoramic city views and rooftop pool.
  • Earl’s Regency Hotel – A stylish property with spacious rooms, spa services, and easy access to cultural sites.
  • Hotel Suisse – A colonial-era hotel with old-world charm, lush gardens, and lakefront views.
  • Queens Hotel – One of Sri Lanka’s oldest hotels, steeped in history and located in the heart of the city.
  • Hunas Falls Hotel – A scenic escape in the hills of Elkaduwa, ideal for nature lovers and honeymooners.

Top Tourist Attractions

Kandy offers a rich tapestry of spiritual, natural, and cultural experiences:

  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa): The holiest Buddhist shrine in Sri Lanka, believed to house a tooth relic of the Buddha. It is the spiritual heart of the nation.

  • Kandy Lake: A tranquil man-made lake built by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, perfect for scenic walks and reflection.

  • Esala Perahera: One of Asia’s grandest religious festivals, featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and caparisoned elephants parading through the city.

  • Royal Palace ofKandy: The former residence of Kandyan kings, now part of the National Museum complex.
  • Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue: A towering white Buddha overlooking the city, offering panoramic views.

  • Udawatta Kele Sanctuary: A forest reserve once reserved for royalty, now a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

  • Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya: Just outside the city, this 147-acre garden features over 4,000 plant species, including rare orchids and towering palms.

  • Ceylon Tea Museum: Housed in a restored tea factory, it offers insight into Sri Lanka’s tea heritage.

  • Knuckles Mountain Range: A UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve ideal for trekking, birding, and eco-tourism.