Kandy district

Kandy district is a vibrant region in the central part of Sri Lanka. It is known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes, and it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The district is famous for the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred Buddhist site, and its lively festivals like the Esala Perahera. It is known as මහනුවර දිස්ත්‍රික්කය (mahanuvara distrikkaya) in Sinhala and கண்டி மாவட்டம் (Kaṇṭi Māvaṭṭam) in Tamil.

History

The history of Kandy district is closely tied to the Kingdom of Kandy, the last independent monarchy of Sri Lanka before the British colonization in 1815. Kandy was a stronghold of Sinhalese culture and power, resistant to both Portuguese and Dutch attempts at conquest. The city of Kandy, the district’s heart, was the last capital of the ancient kings’ era of Sri Lanka. It is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is believed to house the tooth of Buddha, making it an important religious and historical site.

Geography

Kandy district is nestled among the hills of the central highlands, with a varied landscape that ranges from dense forests to lush tea plantations. The Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka’s longest river, flows through the district, enriching the soil and supporting the area’s agriculture. The district’s elevation makes it cooler than the coastal areas of the island, attracting visitors with its pleasant climate.