Kandy is a large city situated in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. The city is on a plateau encircled by mountains rich in tea plantations and biodiverse rainforests. It is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, dotted with colourful houses in the cities, rich history, and significant religious sites. Due to its significance, Kandy is pivotal in Sri Lanka's heritage and history and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a rich history and a rewarding landscape entwined with south coast beaches, Kandy is an ideal romantic getaway. Here, couples can find spots to go on a picnic, scantly crowded beach strips for long romantic walks, and dreamy train rides.
The Ramboda Waterfall is situated along the road from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya in the Pussellawa area, on the A5 highway at Ramboda Pass. It is a 358-ft high waterfall formed by the Panna Oya, a tributary of Kothmale Oya. There is a stairway to reach the top of the falls. It is the perfect place to be on a hot day when you can also take a dip once you are at the top. Couples can take pictures at the scenic location and sit at the vantage point as they absorb the pleasant view.
Special Feature: The falls are named after the nearby village of Ramboda. Visiting the place also allows interacting with local communities and learning about their culture.
Kandy Lake, also famous as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is situated in the heart of the city. It is an artificial lake built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe near the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Hills surround the lake, with pathways built around the water area and an artificial island in the middle. It is marked by long shores, which get slightly chilly at times. Couples can take long strolls around the lake as they engage in conversations and are refreshed by the pleasant aura of the place.
Special Feature: Kandy Lake is home to many bird species making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot colourful birds, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons. It is also a site for local cultural events.
The Bahirawakanda Temple houses the magnificent 88-ft Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue. The statue was built in 1972 and is among one of the most enormous Buddha statues in the country. The statue of Buddha sitting in the Nirvana posture can be viewed from the entire city of Kandy. There are stairs for travellers to climb up to the top, presenting an exhilarating view of the city. A small souvenir shop also sells books, postcards, symbolic merchandise, and clothes. Couples can take memorable pictures at the place and buy various souvenirs.
Special Feature: The temple is often illuminated at night, creating a captivating spectacle against the dark sky. It adds to the temple's allure and makes it worth the visit after sunset.
Located just 5.5 km west of the city of Kandy, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are near the Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka. The botanical gardens are extensive, with more than 4,000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palm trees. The premises of the garden span about 147 acres of space. Couples can walk around or hire a golf buggy to enjoy the mesmerising beauty of the place.
Special Feature: One of the most iconic elements of the botanical garden is the "Avenue of Royal Palms." This majestic avenue is lined with towering palm trees giving it a look of grand and regal entrance.
The train journey from Kandy to Ella stands out as one of the most captivating travel experiences in the country. This ride spans 7 hours and guides you through breathtaking landscapes, including tea plantations, dense jungles, and majestic mountains. As the journey progresses, the train ascends into the verdant hilltop tea plantations and cascading waterfalls. The friendly locals on board add to the welcoming atmosphere. It's an ideal opportunity for couples to cosy up by a window seat and witness the unfolding of picturesque vistas.
Special Feature: The train crosses numerous remarkable bridges that showcase incredible engineering feats. Of these, the Nine Arches Bridge near Ella stands out, boasting impressive architecture.