Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
One of Kandy’s most important Buddhist sites and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), is located within the Royal Palace Complex on the edge of its lake. Its central relic is a tooth said to belong to the Buddha himself. Buddhists travel from all over the world to visit the ornate, gold-roofed temple. You can find out more about the cultural and spiritual importance of the relic at the on-site museum. When you visit, be sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes.
Udawattekele Sanctuary
The Udawattekele forest reserve and wildlife sanctuary span more than 247 acres on a single hilltop within the city. Once the exclusive playground of Sinhalese royalty, the land is now a forest reserve and animal sanctuary. While you’re here, you can check out the monasteries and rock cave dwellings where Buddhist monks once lived. The sanctuary is home to more than 80 species of birds, as well as monkeys, pangolins, and bats.
Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
This dazzling-white 88-foot statue of the Buddha sits beside the Sri Maha Bodhi Temple, enveloped in lush vegetation at the top of a steep set of steps. Located on Bahirawakanda Hill a little over a mile from the city center, the statue is visible throughout the town. Monks live at the temple, and at designated times you can talk with them and receive their blessings. Popular times to visit are the early morning, for tranquil contemplation, and at sunset, when the lights of the city start to twinkle below.