Kandy is a city historically important city that is blessed with natural beauty. Add to this a mild climate and it is easy to understand why Kandy is such a popular holiday destination. Referred to as the capital of the hill country Kandy’s unique blend of history, culture and nature immediately transports visitors to an era gone by. The town itself is a lovely place with its colonial buildings that now house quaint shops selling odds and ends, gemstones and antique jewellery.
The Temple of the Tooth Relic once the palace of the last King of Sri Lank, is an interesting place to visit with its amazing architecture. It houses the sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. Kandy has the distinction of being the last Kingdom of Sri Lanka. In August the city throbs to the beat of the drummers in the Esala Perahera, the annual pageant held in honour of the Tooth Relic. It is a vibrant colourful procession that lasts for 10 days and attracts visitors from all over with its absolute magnificence.
From Stone House it is easy to visit all the attractions in and around Kandy. The ancient capital has many natural treks like the Hantana Rainforest that are worth exploring. Visitors are spoilt for choice for things to do such as visit the Peradeniya Botanical Garden the old Royal garden which is vast. Temples such as Lankatillake and Gadaladeniya showcase Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture. The centrally located Kandy Lake makes for a beautiful evening walk. The Udawatte Kale Royal Forest Park is a gorgeous place to explore. Be sure to visit the Kandy National Museum, the Ceylon Tea Museum in Hantana and the Victoria Golf Club. Pick up souvenirs and gifts at the modern Kandy City Centre and in the Kandy town itself.
Travel a little further and be mesmerized by the elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. You can enjoy the experience of bottle feeding baby elephants and knowing that your visit contributes towards the up keep of the orphanage.
With attractions such as these and many more it is no wonder that people travel the world over to experience Kandy and when you stay at the Stone House this experience is heightened!
Hantana Tea Museum
Located three kilometers from Kandy the Ceylon Tea Museum in Hantane takes you on a memorable journey. Consisting of four floors the museum has a library, an auditorium, tea sales outlets and a top floor restaurant offering views of Kandy and its surroundings.
The Royal Palace of Last King of Kandy
The Royal Palace of Kandy is the where the last king of Sri Lanka resided. The palace complex is a beautiful labyrinth showcasing Sri Lanka’s beautiful architecture to perfection. It is now the location of the sacred Tooth Relic which is revered by Buddhists the world over.
Temples at Gadaladeniya, Ambekke & Lankathilaka
A great way to get a feel for Sri Lanka’s ancient culture is by visiting temples such as Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Ambakke Devale and Lankathilaka Temple, all of which are masterpieces of Sri Lankan architecture.
Kandy Museum
Built during the time of the last king of Sri Lanka, the Museum was once the area the queens of the King resided. With over 5000 exhibits depicting various eras of Sri Lanka’s culture and history, it was opened to the public as a museum in 1942.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
Renowned for its collection of flora and fauna the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya will transport you to a wonder world of great beauty. Walk around the landscaped paths and flowerbeds and appreciate nature in all its glory.
Udawattekele Rainforest
Enjoy a visit to the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary which is a historic forest reserve located on a hill ridge in the Kandy city. The reserve has a great variety of plants, shrubs and small trees so you can truly immerse yourself in nature as you trek through the sanctuary.
Victoria Golf Course
Even if you are not a golf fanatic the Victoria Golf and Country Resort will inspire you to enjoy a couple of rounds. The well manicured course affords amazing views of Kandy’s lush vegetations and coupled with the cool climate you will truly have an unforgettable experience.