Your Gateway to Kandy’s Best Attractions
Nestled in the heart of Kandy, Water Lily Resort offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for travelers eager to explore the city’s cultural and natural wonders. Our prime location ensures that iconic landmarks such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake, and the Royal Botanical Gardens are just a short drive away.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual experiences, scenic hikes in the Knuckles Mountain Range, or authentic Sri Lankan culture at the Cultural Dance Show, our resort makes it easy for you to reach all these must-visit destinations. After a day of adventure, return to the peaceful surroundings of our eco-friendly retreat, where serene lakeside views and modern comforts await.
At Water Lily Resort, exploring Kandy has never been this effortless.
Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, locally known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is the most revered Buddhist site in Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage landmark. Situated in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, it houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, making it a place of immense cultural, historical, and spiritual significance.
The temple’s architecture reflects the grandeur of Kandyan craftsmanship, with intricate carvings, golden decorations, and beautifully painted murals depicting Buddhist traditions. Daily rituals, known as Thevava, are performed three times a day, accompanied by traditional drumming, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere for visitors.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, located just a few kilometers from Kandy city, is one of the most beautiful and well-maintained gardens in Asia. Spanning over 147 acres, it is home to more than 4,000 species of plants, including rare orchids, towering palms, medicinal plants, and exotic flowers.
The gardens were originally established during the reign of King Wickramabahu III in the 14th century and later developed by the British into a world-class botanical space. Today, it is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a relaxing escape from the busy city.
Some highlights include the Orchid House, the famous Cannonball Tree planted by King George V and Queen Mary, and the stunning Avenue of Royal Palms. The gardens also attract a variety of birds and giant fruit bats, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Located about an hour’s drive from Kandy, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular attractions, especially for animal lovers. Established in 1975, the orphanage provides care and shelter for orphaned, injured, and abandoned elephants, giving them a safe environment to thrive.
Visitors can watch elephants being fed and witness the unforgettable sight of the herd bathing and playing in the nearby Ma Oya River, a daily highlight that draws many travelers. The orphanage is home to the largest herd of captive elephants in the world, including adorable baby elephants that charm everyone who visits.
Beyond its role as a tourist attraction, Pinnawala is dedicated to conservation and breeding efforts, helping to protect these magnificent animals for future generations. A visit here offers a rare chance to observe elephants up close while learning about their lives and the importance of wildlife preservation in Sri Lanka.
Udawattekele Sanctuary
Udawattekele Sanctuary, often called the “forest in the city,” is a lush green escape located just above the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy. Spanning nearly 257 acres, this historic forest reserve was once a royal retreat for the kings of Kandy and is now a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
The sanctuary is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including towering tropical trees, rare plants, and colorful bird species. Visitors can explore peaceful walking trails that lead to viewpoints offering stunning panoramas of Kandy city. Along the way, you might also encounter small mammals, reptiles, and butterflies in their natural habitat.
Udawattekele is not only a place for eco-tourism but also has historical and spiritual significance, with ancient hermitages and meditation spots hidden within the forest. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking tranquility, photography opportunities, or a break from the busy city life.
Ceylon Tea Museum
The Ceylon Tea Museum, located in Hantana just a few kilometers from Kandy city, is a must-visit for anyone interested in Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea industry. Housed in a beautifully restored 1925 tea factory, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history and development of Ceylon tea, which has been a cornerstone of the country’s economy and culture for over a century.
Inside the museum, you’ll find old machinery used in tea production, photographs, and documents that trace the journey of tea from its introduction to becoming a global brand. The top floor features a charming tea café where visitors can enjoy a fresh cup of Ceylon tea while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plantations.
The museum also has a tea sales outlet where guests can purchase high-quality teas directly from local producers, making it an ideal spot for souvenirs.
Dambulla Cave Temple
Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant cultural and religious landmarks. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it dates back to the 1st century BCE and is the largest, best-preserved cave temple complex in the country. The site consists of five caves carved into a massive rock, each filled with exquisite Buddhist murals and over 150 statues, including images of Lord Buddha, gods, goddesses, and ancient kings. The colorful paintings on the walls and ceilings depict key moments in Buddhist history, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of devotion and artistry.
Reaching the temple requires a short climb, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including Sigiriya Rock in the distance. Dambulla Cave Temple beautifully blends spirituality, history, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring central Sri Lanka.
Ambekka Temple:
Ambekka Temple, also known as Ambekka Devalaya, is a historic temple located about 12 kilometers from Kandy, renowned for its exquisite wood carvings and cultural significance. Built in the 14th century during the reign of King Wickramabahu III, the temple is dedicated to the deity Kataragama Deviyo and showcases remarkable Kandyan craftsmanship.
The most striking feature of Ambekka Temple is its intricate wooden pillars, beams, and roof panels, all decorated with over 500 unique carvings. These include images of dancers, musicians, animals, floral designs, and mythical creatures, each telling a story from Sri Lankan history and folklore. The temple complex consists of three main sections: the sanctum, the dance hall, and the drummers’ hall, reflecting the artistic traditions of the Kandyan era.
A visit to Ambekka Temple offers travelers a blend of spirituality, history, and art, making it a hidden gem near Kandy worth exploring.
