The religious capital and pilgrim site of the Sri Lankans, Kandy, is situated at the central part of Sri Lanka. It is the capital of central province and Kandy district and one of the most beautiful cities of Sri Lanka. The name of the city derived from a Sinhalese word “Kanda Uda Pas Rata” which means “the five districts on the mountain.” Portuguese used to call it “Candea.” The city was also referred as “Maha Nuwara” which means “Great city.”
From ancient times till now, Kandy has remained the religious capital of Sri Lanka. From 1592 to 19th century Kandy remained both administrative and religious capital. The city successfully survived against Portuguese and Dutch invasions but gave up to British in 1815.
The city of Kandy is situated 500 meter above sea level and surrounded by hills. The climate is temperate. On the northern part of the city, there is an artificial lake built by the last king of this region, Sri Wickrama Rajasinha. There is a small island at the center of the lake where the king used to keep his concubines. The city is very green and there are several monasteries around the city.Sinhalese are the majority in this region followed by Moores and Tamils.
Any description of Kandy would remain incomplete without talking about “Dalada Maligawa” or The Temple of Tooth. Situated in Kandy, the famous Temple of tooth is a pilgrim site of the Sri Lankans. On their first day after election, all the presidents and ministers of Sri Lanka deliver their speeches from the temple’s balcony. Other major politicians of Sri Lanka also come here. The famous tooth of Buddha remained in Sri Lanka for 1600years. First, it was in Anuradhapura; then, in 11th century AD, the relic came to Kandy.
For its historical significance Kandy was listed under the world heritage site by UNESCO. Those of you who enjoy visiting historical sites and historical monuments would enjoy very much traveling Kandy.
- Dalada Maligawa: The temple of tooth relic was rebuilt in 18th century. Founded on a granite base various materials like limestone, marble, sculpted wood, ivory, and other materials were used to build the temple. Each year, a festival named “Esala Maha Perahera” is observed in Kandy. During this festival, the tooth is taken in a procession around the city. Locals in colorful dresses and traditional dancers dance in the procession.
- The Botanical Garden Peradeniya: Situated about 4 miles north of Kandy, the garden is visited by 1.2 million people per every year.
- Trinity College Chapel: Founded in 1872, this is the most important Christian educational center of the country.
- Bird Sanctuary: Udawattekele Bird Sanctuary is not very far from the main city of Kandy. Various kinds of bird species like Layard's parakeet, hanging parrot, yellow-fronted barbet, black capped bulbul, emerald dove, and many other birds can be found here.
- Lankatilaka Temple: Built on rock, this is a beautiful building with lots of paintings.
- Kandy is also great for shopping and eating. The city has also many nightclubs. So the western tourists would enjoy it very much.
For more information you can visit the following webpages:
Kandy is one of the most revered destinations for those interested in knowing about Buddhism in Sri lanka. A must visit city.
Posted by: Yangkye | September 7, 2007 4:00 AM | Permalink to Comment