Kandy

Kandy comes alive in August because of the Kandy Esala Perehera, an annual ceremony of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. It generally draws many local and foreign tourists who appreciate cultural monomials and Buddhist origins. With so many attractions and intriguing locations, these are the most well-known spots in Kandy. There is plenty for all sorts of tourists, from galleries to vistas.

History of Kandy

The English bestowed the name “Kandy,” a derivative of “Kanda Uda Rata,” reflecting the city’s elevated geographical setting. Presently known as “Maha Nuwara” in Sinhala, Kandy’s historical essence is “Senkadagalapura.” The roots of this intriguing name lead us down the paths of folklore and legend.

Origins of Senkadagala

Senkadagala’s origins are shrouded in three distinct narratives. It is believed to have been named after a Brahmin named Senkadagala, a queen named Senkada associated with King Wickramabahu, or a precious coloured stone called Senkada gala. These legends intertwine, creating a mystique that adds to the city’s allure.

The Birth of a Regal Capital

During the Gampola Era, the illustrious King Wickramabahu III established Senkadagalapura as a city from 1357 to 1374 AD. However, it was Senasammata Wickremabahu, ascending the throne in the 15th century (1473-1511), who elevated Kandy to the status of the capital of the Kandyan Kingdom. The city’s grandeur was further enhanced by the presence of the Royal Palace and the revered “Dalada Maligawa,” the Temple of the Tooth Relic.

Triumph Amidst Turmoil

Kandy’s history is marked by its resilience against foreign invaders. Despite coastal regions succumbing to Portuguese, Dutch, and English influences, Kandy stood firm, safeguarding its independence. The treacherous mountain routes that led to the city became its shield, thwarting numerous invasions. It was in 1815 that Kandy eventually yielded to British authority, symbolized by the signing of a pact at the historic “Magul Maduwa,” near the Dalada Maligawa by the serene Kandy lakeside.

The Sunset of a Royal Dynasty

The poignant tale of Kandy’s last king, Sri Wickrama Rajasinhe, adds a melancholic note to its history. Imprisoned by the British and exiled to India, he endured a life of captivity until his passing. With his fall, the illustrious Royal Dynasty, which had suffered since the 6th century BC—spanning over 2350 years—came to a poignant end, marking a turning point in the annals of time.

A Spiritual Haven

Kandy’s enduring significance as the religious capital of Sri Lanka is an indelible thread woven into its narrative. Through invasions and upheavals, the city retained its status as a pilgrimage site for devout Buddhists, practising the purest form of the faith. The legacy of Kandy lives on, a testament to its unwavering devotion to spirituality.