Kandy in Sri Lanka is a historically important place. Home to many historical places in Kandy, the picturesque city with its lush green mountains and beautiful ancient monuments, is home to a biodiverse rainforest and tea plantations. The deep emerald lake, at the city’s heart, is an alluring sight, inviting locals and tourists to stroll around it. Kandy is famous and renowned for housing multiple Buddhist temples and other historical architecture. The city was the last capital city of the kings of Kandy, making it historically very significant. Visiting the city is a must among tourists.
10 Historical Places In Kandy
Explore 10 historical places in Kandy that are bound to transport you into a bygone era. These places are as follows:
1. Kandy War Cemetery
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Kandy War Cemetery is a cemetery in Sri Lanka dedicated to 196 war casualties from the First and Second World Wars. These casualties were of soldiers who were under the British Empire. The cemetery 5 kilometres from Kandy was formerly known as the ‘Pitakande Military Cemetery’. The final resting place for world war soldiers is easily accessible by road and is open every day from 7 in the morning to 4 in the evening.
Distance from Kandy: 5 kilometres
Entry fee: free
Timings: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Must Read: Kandy Hostels
2. Temple Of Sacred Tooth Relic
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Among the Famous Historical Places in Kandy, the first most visited by tourists is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The temple, Sri Dalada Maligawa, is renowned worldwide because it contains a relic or a body part of Lord Gautam Buddha. The temple is a UNESCO world heritage site that enshrines the left canine tooth of the Buddha. It is a beautiful monument built in the 16th century. Tourist entry costs between 1500 and 2000 LKR and is open from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Distance from Kandy: 2 kilometres
Entry fee: 1500-2000 LKR
Timings: 5:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.
3. Royal Palace Of Kandy
Image Credit: Николай Максимович for Wikimedia Commons
The Royal Palace of Kandy is an integral part of Kandy’s history. It is located 2 km from Kandy. The Royal Palace housed the Kandy Monarchs before the British occupation of Kandy. Constructed by Vikramabahu the III, the temple is a beautiful monument that boasts a Kandyan architecture style. The palace has mesmerising woodwork, wall murals, and intricate stone carvings.
Distance from Kandy: 2 Km
Entry fee: 1000 LKR
Timings: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
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4. St Paul’s Church
Image Credit: Fernando Nunes for Wikimedia Commons
The St Paul’s Church in Kandy is an important part of Kandy history. The historical monument was constructed during the 19th century under British governance. It was called the Garrison Church during the British era and is of the Anglican denomination. It is also among the Famous Historical Places in Kandy because it has the largest and only pipe organ in Sri Lanka.
Distance from Kandy: 2 km
Entry fee: free
Timings: 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
5. Golden Temple Of Dambulla
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A World Heritage site, the Golden Temple of Dambulla is among the historic sites of Kandy. Located 72 kilometres from Kandy, the temple is situated in a cave. It is the largest and one of the most well-preserved Kandy Monuments. The temple was established in the 1st century, integral to Kandy history. It has statues of Buddha, and the cave showcases Sinhala art and sculpture.
Distance from Kandy: 72 km
Entry fee: 1500 LKR
Timings: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Suggested Read: Dambulla Cave Temple
6. Kandy Garrison Cemetery
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Another Famous Historical Place in Kandy is the Garrison Cemetery. The cemetery was established in 1817 under British rule and was reserved for Britishers who had passed away in Sri Lanka. It was closed for burials in 1873. 195 people were buried in the cemetery.
Distance from Kandy: 3 km
Entry fee: free
Timings: 8 a.m.- 6 pm
7. Lankatilaka Temple
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The Lankatilaka Temple is among the Top 10 historical places in Kandy. The temple dedicated to Buddhism was built around the 14th century. Built on Panhalgala rock, a naturally occurring rock, the temple has a predominantly Sinhalese style of art and sculpture. It is a beautiful and tranquil temple enhanced by art and sculpture of the Kandyan era. It is located 15 km from Kandy.
Distance from Kandy: 15 km
Entry fee: 500 LHR
Timings: 8 am- 5 pm
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8. Gadaladeniya Vihara
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Located 12 kilometres away, the Gadaladeniya temple is a Buddhist temple built by the king, Bhuvanekabahu IV. The temple, made from rock, is considered the largest in Sri Lanka. It was built in the 14th century, with additional constructions in the 18th and 19th centuries. It boasts Sinhalese art, and the temple was made in the Dravidian style. It is one of the very beautiful and ancient historic sites of Kandy.
Distance from Kandy: 12 km
Entry fee: free
Timings: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
9. Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Vihara
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Located in the rural Kandy, 7 kilometres from Kandy, the Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Vihara, is among other famous Kandy Monuments. Built during the 18th century, it is renowned for its Kandyan-era wall paintings. Cut from a rock, the temple is a Buddhist temple boasting unique frescoes. It was built by the ruler, Kirti Sri Rajasinghe.
Distance from Kandy: 7 km
Entry fee: free
Timings: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Suggested Read: Villas In Mirissa
10. Embekke Devale
Image Credit: Z_thomas for Wikimedia Commons
Embekke Devalaya is another monument from the rich and unique Kandy History. Located just at about 14 kilometres from Kandy, Embekke Devale was built during the 14th century by King Vikrama Bahu the Third, it has a shrine for a local deity of Devatha Bandara and it was used as a resting place.
It has very intricate and beautiful carvings adorning the wooden pillars.
Distance from Kandy: 14 kilometres
Entry fee: free
Timings: 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Further Read: Sri Lanka in January
Kandy is home to many historical places. The picturesque city with its lush green mountains and beautiful ancient monuments, is home to a biodiverse rainforest and tea plantations. It is a must-visit on your next trip to Kandy.
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Cover Image Credit: Charles R. Benedict for Wikimedia
Frequently Asked Questions About Historical Places In Kandy
Why is Kandy famous?
Kandy is a beautiful city famous for its history, natural beauty, and Buddhist temples.
What are some amazing places to visit in Kandy?
Many places are worth including to your itinerary. These are as follows:
- Sri Dalada Maligawa
- Royal Botanic Garden
- Bahirawakanda Temple
- Kandy Lake
Is Sri Lanka affordable for Indians?
Yes, Sri Lanka is affordable for Indians. It is perfect for budgeted travel.
How Long Should I Spend in Kandy?
Generally two to three days would be enough for covering major tourist attractions in Kandy.
Is Indian Rupee valid in Sri Lanka?
No, the INR is not valid in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan Rupee is the legal tender of Sri Lanka.
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