4 Sites Every Tourist Must Visit in Kandi, Sri Lanka

Time outside your hotel accommodation in Kandy, Sri Lanka is best spent by visiting these picturesque gardens, historically relevant structures, and exciting nature sanctuaries. The city, being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has lots to offer in terms of cultural destinations and nature reserves.

1. Tea Museum
A Sri Lankan tea tour won't be complete without a stop at the Tea Museum on the 1925-vintage Hanthana Tea Factory. Situated some 4 km south of Kandy, the structure was abandoned for over a decade until it was refurbished by the Sri Lanka Tea Board and the Planters' Association of Sri Lanka. Aside from fine teas and exhibits, the 4-story building has a restaurant with a panoramic view of the town of Kandy. The museum is open from 8:15 AM to 4:45 PM.

2. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist relic, a tooth of the Buddha, is housed in this shrine. Monks lead 3 daily ceremonies performed in the temple's inner chamber. The temple compound also has the Audience Hall where the remains of the Rajah are laid to rest, World Buddhism Museum, and Alut Maligawa, a newer shrine filled with Buddhas donated by Thai devotees.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens - Peradeniya
This 60-hectare botanical garden is home to fine orchids and a collection of gardens dedicated to various plants, including a spice garden and a medicinal garden. Aside from the rich flora, Peradeniya is also a great place to go birdwatching and butterfly viewing. About 20 species of reptiles and a number of amphibians and mammals also live in the garden. People who get tired in the middle of exploring the sprawling garden can recharge with filling meals served at Raswasala Restaurant at Amaya Hills, some 8 minutes by car from Peradeniya.

4. Udawattakelle Sanctuary
Visiting this reserve on the opposite side of Kandy Lake will prove to be quite an experience for nature lovers. The sanctuary covers 2 kilometers, most of which is carpeted by a dense forest. It is an ideal place for birdwatching. If you can come there early enough, you might get to listen to the birds' dawn chorus. Monkeys and leeches can also be found in the area, especially if it's been raining. The sanctuary is open from 8 AM to 6 PM. Kandy accommodations and restaurants abound outside the sanctuary proper for tourists who want to spend more time in this part of the city.