The Cultural Heart of Sri Lanka Kandy was the last capital of the Sinhala kings and remained unconquered by European powers until 1815. Today, it's a vibrant city that serves as the gateway to the hill country and remains the spiritual center of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Essential Kandy Experiences Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic This temple houses Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist relic - a tooth of Buddha. The temple complex is a stunning example of Kandyan architecture and hosts daily rituals where devotees offer flowers and prayers. Esala Perahera Festival If you visit in July or August, you might witness this spectacular 10-day festival featuring decorated elephants, traditional dancers, and drummers parading through the streets. Kandy Lake Created by the last king of Kandy in 1807, this artificial lake offers peaceful walks with views of the temple and surrounding hills. Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya Just outside Kandy, these gardens showcase over 4,000 plant species, including a famous collection of orchids and a giant Java fig tree with a canopy covering 1,900 square meters. Traditional Dance Performance Evening cultural shows feature Kandyan dancing, fire walking, and drumming - a perfect introduction to Sri Lankan performing arts.