Kandy: Spice Garden, Tooth Relic and Kandayan Dance
Kandy’s verdant landscapes draw visitors from near and far, with its verdant canopy trees and captivating foggy skylines creating a magical atmosphere. The Bogambara Lake is truly a sight to behold, with its vibrant cottages and a gaggle of ruffs gliding along the water’s edge – a sight sure to captivate any passerby.
Hidden amongst the lush glades of the woodland, lies a captivating village with a colonial-era Kandyan culture and architecture that will take your breath away. Even the most mundane of sights in this village seem to sparkle in the blueness of the sky, and they become even more beguiling when the rain falls.
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Highland Spice Garden
As I traveled from Dambulla to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s tropical oasis, I just had to make a pit stop to explore the Highland Spice Garden. Nestled between majestic mountains, this genuine Ceylon Spice Garden is nothing short of an herb paradise! On the tour, I was able to discover how over 20 unique spices are grown, harvested, cleaned and packaged – truly a magical experience.
The Spice Garden is a veritable wonderland of knowledge and botanical exploration! Here, you can discover the fascinating medical powers of herbs and spices, and even pick up some organic delicacies straight from the source. Plus, the layout of this Garden is truly captivating – with elaborate pathways that weave through the different sections of production. So don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the healing properties of nature!
Finally, the Spice Garden has been a flourishing success due to its years of unwavering expertise and innovative lineage. Come to sample the sublime tropical flavours prepared by the local professionals! Spices like peppercorn, cinnamon, citronella, nutmeg, aloe vera, turmeric, pineapple and vanilla will be sure to tantalise your taste buds. At the end of your visit, why not take home some of these unique spices from their in-house store? To make your experience even more memorable, they also offer a complimentary neck and shoulder massage with their range of natural lotions. What more could you possibly need?
Sacred Tooth Relic
My sightseeing jaunt in Kandy kicked off at the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This monumentally significant Buddhist temple is engulfed in a white water waves wall, that stretches to Bogambara Lake. As I roamed around Sri Lanka, I noticed this style of wall can be seen in many places. Undeniable, this mystical temple is intrinsically connected to Kandy’s vivacious cultural life. As soon as you step through the main gate, an overwhelming feeling of serenity will take over.
As you prepare to take the steps to the shielded main door of the venerable Royal Palace of Kandy, you’ll notice the locals carrying white lotus and water lilies – symbols of enlightenment in Buddhism – as offerings to the Buddha sculptures. After much anticipation and a thorough security check, you are finally graced with entrance to one of the world’s most renowned Buddhist temples. Here, you will find the well-preserved tooth of the Buddha, as well as his timeless teachings, far away from the hustle of the everyday.
As you approach the entrance to the temple, you’ll be met with the majestic sight of two elephants, expertly sculpted in the iconic Kandyan style. The path to the prayer area is lined with elephant tusks and Buddhist flags, a beautiful sight to behold. And then, as you step inside, you’ll be transported to a world of blissful tranquility as the mesmerising melody of Carnatic music fills the air. Follow the joyful beats of the Mridangam as you explore the ground and first floors, its catchy rhythm played by men in their resplendent red and white ceremonial attire.
The Tooth Relic has a long and fascinating history. Rumor has it that it was hidden in a grinding stone during King Kotte’s reign, before being transferred to Kandy. Here, devoted followers of Buddha constructed a two-storey structure to safely hold this rare treasure. Tourists are allowed to briefly visit the chamber where the tooth is stored, but photography is strictly prohibited. The tooth itself is kept in an impressive gold stupa-shaped casket, accompanied by five other dagoba caskets of varying sizes. And this is only the beginning – the complex includes a sequence of shrines, minor temples, and museums that all form part of the main temple.
Kandyan Dance
As the sun began to set, the grand finale of the evening was a traditional Kandyan dance, unique and exclusive to Kandy. This cultural presentation is only available during specific times, from 4 to 5 p.m. or from 5 to 6 p.m., so be sure to book your ticket in advance. Prepare to be dazzled by the Kandyan dancers in their radiant, red and white garments, as they bring this traditional culture to life!
The presentation highlights the captivating diversity of Sri Lanka’s traditions and civilizations, which have been developing since time immemorial. Not only can visitors be entertained, but they can also gain insight into the extraordinary Sri Lankan culture. Ultimately, Kandy, the spiritual capital and former residence of the Kings, is an awe-inspiring paradise unlike any other.
