Sigiriya (Lion’s Rock)
Sigiriya, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," is an essential destination for anyone visiting Sri Lanka, and it's conveniently accessible from Kandy. Located approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Kandy, this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its stunning ancient rock fortress, which rises majestically from the lush green plains.
The journey from Kandy to Sigiriya typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by car, offering scenic views of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to verdant forests. As you approach Sigiriya, the striking sight of the 200-meter-high rock formation will leave you in awe.
Sigiriya is more than just a rock; it’s a marvel of ancient engineering and artistry. Built in the 5th century by King Kasyapa, the fortress features extensive gardens, reservoirs, and intricate frescoes that adorn the rock’s face.
The climb to the summit, though challenging, is incredibly rewarding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and a glimpse into the history of a once-thriving royal citadel.
Beyond the rock itself, the Sigiriya area is rich in cultural and natural attractions. You can explore nearby sites like the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site, or take a safari in Minneriya National Park to witness the famous elephant gatherings.
A day trip from Kandy to Sigiriya is an unforgettable experience, blending adventure, history, and natural beauty. It’s a must-visit for those looking to delve deeper into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying some of the island’s most breathtaking scenery.
Nuwara Eliya (Little England)
Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England," is a charming hill station located approximately 77 kilometers south of Kandy. Known for its stunning landscapes, cool climate, and colonial architecture, Nuwara Eliya is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by car, offering breathtaking views of lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque valleys along the way. As you ascend into the hills, the temperature drops, and the refreshing mountain air greets you, making it a delightful escape.
Upon arrival, you’ll be captivated by Nuwara Eliya’s unique charm, which features beautiful gardens, Victorian-style houses, and vibrant flowerbeds.
The town is surrounded by rolling hills and endless tea estates, where you can take leisurely walks through the verdant landscapes, visit tea factories, and learn about the tea-making process. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of the finest Ceylon tea during your visit.
Nuwara Eliya is also home to the stunning Gregory Lake, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. For adventure seekers, hiking trails in the nearby Horton Plains National Park offer stunning views and a chance to see unique wildlife. The park’s highlight is the famous World's End viewpoint, where you can experience breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
With its cool climate, lush landscapes, and rich history, Nuwara Eliya is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling from Kandy. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Sri Lanka’s colonial past, Nuwara Eliya promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Central Highlands.
Riverston and Knuckles
Matale, Riverston, and the Knuckles Mountain Range are some of the most scenic and unspoiled destinations in Sri Lanka, located just a short distance from Kandy. These areas offer an ideal escape into nature, where you can explore lush forests, rugged landscapes, and breathtaking viewpoints.
The journey from Kandy to Matale takes about an hour, with the road winding through picturesque countryside dotted with spice gardens, where you can learn about Sri Lanka's rich spice heritage. Matale itself is known for its historical significance and natural beauty, with attractions like the Aluvihare Rock Temple and the colorful Hindu temple, Muthumariamman Kovil.
From Matale, continue your journey to Riverston, a lesser-known gem that offers some of the most stunning views in the Central Highlands.
The Riverston Peak, often called the "Mini World's End," provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The hike to the peak is relatively easy, making it accessible for most travellers. As you walk through the misty paths, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and cool mountain air, offering a refreshing break from the tropical heat.
Beyond Riverston lies the Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Known for its unique biodiversity, the Knuckles Range is home to a variety of flora and fauna, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth. The range offers numerous hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging treks, where you can discover hidden waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and ancient villages nestled in the hills.
Travelling from Kandy to Matale, Riverston, and the Knuckles Range is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. Whether you're a hiker, a nature lover, or simply looking to escape the crowds, this region offers a serene and unspoiled retreat, where you can connect with the island’s rich landscapes and experience the tranquillity of its mountainous terrain.
Corbet’s Gap: A Hidden Gem in the Knuckles Mountain Range
Nestled in the Knuckles Mountain Range of Sri Lanka’s Kandy district, Corbet’s Gap offers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the region. Home to an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna, this destination is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Although comprehensive biodiversity data for the trek to Corbet's Gap is not readily available, the area's natural beauty speaks for itself.
Named after British surveyor Corbett, who famously mapped the region, Corbet's Gap sits in a unique rain shadow area, earning it the local name "Attala Wettuwa."
The lush scenery and rare vegetation make this spot a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience Sri Lanka’s untouched wilderness. With its mesmerizing views and connection to the island’s colonial history, Corbet’s Gap offers an unforgettable journey into nature's wonders.
Whether you're hiking through its rugged terrain or simply enjoying the panoramic views, Corbet’s Gap is a destination where you can truly connect with nature and soak in the rich history of the region. Plan your visit today to experience the magic of this hidden gem in the Knuckles Mountain Range.
Meemure Village: A Secluded Treasure in Sri Lanka's Knuckles Mountain Range
Tucked away in the remote Knuckles Mountain Range, Meemure Village is one of Sri Lanka’s most untouched and picturesque destinations. Known for its traditional charm and breathtaking natural beauty, this isolated village is a popular spot for adventurous travellers seeking an authentic escape from the modern world. Although reaching Meemure can be challenging, its unique allure makes the journey well worth the effort.
Located on the border between the Kandy and Matale districts, Meemure officially falls within the Udadumbara Divisional Secretariat of the Kandy District. It is approximately 190 km from Colombo and just 75 km from Kandy. With a population of around 400, Meemure remains one of the most remote villages in Sri Lanka, accessible only by a 14 km trek from the town of Loolwatte.
Surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains, including the majestic Lakegala Mountain, Meemure is steeped in legend.
It is said that King Ravana once lifted the mythical "Dhandu Monara" from this very spot. The village's economy thrives on agriculture, with residents cultivating crops like pepper, cardamom, ginger, and paddy.
Beyond its historical significance, Meemure’s exceptional natural beauty is one of its main attractions. Visitors will be enchanted by the untouched landscapes, traditional Sri Lankan architecture, and serene atmosphere. Whether you're exploring the verdant countryside or simply enjoying the peaceful simplicity of village life, Meemure offers an unforgettable experience for those who seek an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Plan your trip to Meemure and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of this hidden gem, where nature and tradition come together to create a truly unique destination.
Mahiyanganaya - Dambana
Mahiyanganaya and Dambana, located in the eastern part of Sri Lanka, are rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. A journey from Kandy to these destinations offers a unique glimpse into the island's ancient history and the way of life of the indigenous Veddha community.
The drive from Kandy to Mahiyanganaya takes about three hours, passing through lush green hills, terraced paddy fields, and charming villages. As you descend from the central highlands, the landscape gradually changes to the plains of the Mahaweli River Basin, offering stunning views and a sense of tranquility.
Mahiyanganaya is one of the oldest towns in Sri Lanka and holds great significance in Buddhist history.
The Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara, a revered Buddhist temple, marks the spot where the Buddha is believed to have visited on his first journey to Sri Lanka. The temple’s stupa, said to be one of the oldest in the country, is a pilgrimage site for many Buddhists and offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
A short drive from Mahiyanganaya will take you to Dambana, a small village that is home to the indigenous Veddha community, one of the oldest surviving indigenous groups in the world. Visiting Dambana is like stepping back in time, as the Veddhas have preserved their traditional way of life, living off the land through hunting and gathering. At the Veddha Cultural Centre, you can learn about their customs, language, and unique relationship with nature. The village chief, often referred to as the "Veddha Chief," shares stories of his people’s history and their efforts to maintain their cultural identity in the modern world.
Exploring Mahiyanganaya and Dambana offers a rare opportunity to connect with Sri Lanka’s ancient heritage and the island’s first inhabitants. The journey from Kandy is not just a drive through beautiful landscapes but also a journey into the heart of Sri Lanka's cultural roots. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Mahiyanganaya and Dambana offer a rich and immersive adventure.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, situated about 40 kilometers northwest of Kandy, is a heartwarming destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience with one of Sri Lanka's most iconic animals. The journey from Kandy to Pinnawala takes about an hour and a half, passing through scenic countryside and small towns that reflect the island's rural charm.
Established in 1975, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was created as a sanctuary for orphaned, injured, and abandoned elephants. It has since become one of the largest captive elephant herds in the world and is renowned for its conservation efforts. The orphanage provides a safe haven for elephants of all ages, from playful calves to wise, elderly giants.
Visitors to Pinnawala are treated to a rare opportunity to observe elephants in a natural-like setting.
One of the most memorable experiences is watching the elephants as they are led down to the nearby Maha Oya River for their daily bath. This spectacular sight of dozens of elephants splashing and playing in the water is a photographer’s dream and a joyful moment for all who witness it.
At the orphanage, you can learn about the life of these gentle giants, their habits, and the challenges they face in the wild. The dedicated caretakers, or "mahouts," share their knowledge and passion for elephant conservation, offering insights into the complexities of caring for such large and intelligent animals. You can also observe the feeding sessions, where baby elephants are bottle-fed with milk, a heartwarming scene that endears these creatures to everyone who visits.
Beyond its role as a tourist attraction, Pinnawala plays a crucial part in elephant conservation in Sri Lanka. The orphanage is involved in breeding programs, veterinary care, and raising awareness about the importance of protecting elephants and their natural habitats.
A visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage from Kandy is not just a day out with these majestic creatures but also an educational experience that highlights the importance of conservation and the efforts being made to preserve Sri Lanka’s wildlife heritage. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, Pinnawala offers a meaningful and memorable encounter with one of nature’s most magnificent animals,
