things to do in Kandy | The Adventure Travel Site

Nature’s Hidden Gems: Hiking Trails Around Kandy

Situated in the Central Province, surrounded by the Knuckles and Hunnasgiriya mountain ranges, Kandy enjoys a colder climate, making it the ideal trail for hiking enthusiasts.

Mutukeliyawa View Point

If you have gone through the list of all the things to do in Kandy, you may be looking to step out of your comfort zone. However, it is understood that not everyone considers hiking for hours at an end fun. Thus, this hike is ideal for novices, as it can be completed in under 3 hours.

Hantana to Galaha

If you are looking to burn some calories after a hearty breakfast at a property such as Hotel Topaz, then consider embarking on the first stage of the Pekoe trail. This is another easy trail that is ideal for newcomers. This hike starts at the Ceylon tea museum at the Hantana estate, which is a must-visit.

Alagalla

While this is a popular hiking trail, it is more suitable for experienced hikers as the final steps of the journey involve a steep slope that is difficult to navigate.

Pettigala

This hike is open to anyone as it is relatively easy, and offers a breathtaking view. From the top, you would be able to observe both the Victoria reservoir and the Knuckles mountain range, which is absolutely worth the 1-kilometre hike.

Trekking in the Knuckles Mountain Range

Known for its stunning natural beauty, the Knuckles Mountain Range is amongst the key places for trekking in Sri Lanka and here’s a guide on this scenic attraction.

Where is It?

Named for its resemblance to knuckles, this mountain range can be found in the Matale and Kandy districts; Kandy is a great place to stay and is around a 90-minute drive from this site; properties like Mountbatten Bungalow make an ideal base for your excursions and you can easily enjoy a day trip and back.

What to Expect

The Knuckles Mountain Range features thriving flora and fauna and amongst the best things to do in Kandy is to plan a trekking adventure here; you will come across enchanting cloud forests sometimes shrouded in mist, idyllic waterfalls, crystal clear streams, traditional villages and various wildlife and birdlife too.

Diverse Trails

There are over 30 trails for trekking in Knuckles Mountain Range, best explored with a guide. These include the Dothalugala nature trail to the summit of a mountain and the Mini World’s End trail, both offering spectacular views. There’s also the Duwili Ella trail to a waterfall in the forest and Nitro Caves trail to an intriguing cave.

Keep in Mind

Have a guide who can also help to get any needed permits. Wear light clothing and hiking boots; have a raincoat and bring swimwear if you plan to have a dip at a waterfall. Take enough water and remember you can fill bottles at streams. Also, have anti-leech socks and spray to deal with these pesky creatures!

24 Hours in Kandy

If you are to spend 24 hours in Kandy, that is quite enough to explore the main attraction in this ancient city. Kandy is rich in heritage and culture and the attractions you will be visiting are beacons of this. Here are a few places to explore.

The Temple of the Tooth Relic

Image by Shenalit via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

This is the first place locals and tourists head to upon arriving in Kandy. It is the home of the sacred tooth of Lord Buddha brought here by a princess from India. The Temple is within an age-old palace complex which holds interesting tales within.

Kandy Lake

Not far from the temple, Kandy Lake is one of the best places for a stroll in the shade. There are garden benches in the shade as well if you want to sit down for a while and take in the serenity.

Walkthrough the colonial town

When it comes to things to do in Kandy, a walk around the town is a must-do! Although some may be abandoned, the colonial buildings are still intact for visitors to see.

Bahiravakanda

Sitting atop a hill among the greens is a marvellous statue of Lord Buddha overlooking the city. This is one of the most prominent attractions in Kandy and offers a great view as well. If you happen to be staying at hotels like Earl’s Regency, do take the time to explore these treasures.

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

Kandy, the capital city of Sri Lanka’s hill country, is one of the most historic and fascinating destinations in Sri Lanka. Bearing the title as the last Sinhala Kingdom before British colonization, the city of Kandy is a hub of culture and history. The city is home to sacred and iconic attractions such as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Royal Palace of Kandy, and the National Museum of Kandy. The city is, therefore, a top tourist destination and with numerous hotels, including the likes of Hotel Hilltop Kandy.
Of the many things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka, one of the most highly recommended activities is exploring the sprawling Udawatte Kele Sanctuary. The Udawatte Kele Sanctuary, located south of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, is one of the most oldest and historic forest sanctuaries in the hill country or Sri Lanka. With its thriving flora and fauna, unique attractions, and stunning beauty, the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary is, without a doubt, an attraction well worth visiting.
When the Kandy served as the seat of the Sinhala Kingdom in the 14th Century, this sanctuary was exclusively reserved for the enjoyment of the Royal family. Following British colonialism, this amazing forest lost its exclusivity. However, owing to its ecological value, in 1856, the forest was declared in the forest reserve. It was in 1938 that the forest was declared a forest sanctuary, a title it has retained ever since. The sanctuary spreads over 257 acres and is home to over 135 species of trees, species and shrubs, many of which have stood strong for at least 300 years. The forest is also inhabited by a number of mammals and reptiles. However, it is the avifauna that is the main highlight in terms of fauna, with the sanctuary being home to over 80 species of birds, including the Three-Toed Kingfisher and Yellow-Fronted Barbet. Other attractions of this awe-inspiring sanctuary are the Senkadagala Cave, the Garrison Cemetery, and the Kodimale Peak.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+