town makes for a pleasant trip in itself. Along the winding roads that go uphill and down, you will find shops catering to tourists and locals alike. From the antique boutiques, to the batik shops, and the museums tucked away in the corners, there is much to explore. Some sites that stand out would be the Udawatta Kale, situated around the lake; this forest sanctuary often goes unnoticed. The sanctuary is also home to three monasteries, along with a slew of flora and fauna.
Once you begin to venture outside of town, along the Peradeniya Road, you can begin one of many hikes uphill that greet your eyes to the majestic views the hills are known for. Even the houses along the way will catch your interest, as they hold on precariously to the side of hills. The greenery in Kandy is sometimes overwhelming as there is little to contrast it to. This is no concrete jungle, outside of the city centre there is likely more greenery than buildings. Lianas hang from the trees, falling just above the roadways giving ample clearance for the vehicles that zoom by.
Piachaud Garden will take you along a rather scenic route, ask anyone around and they will give you directions to Arthur Seat, a point from which you can look over the lake and the city centre. As the sun sets, the city begins to light up, with headlights streaming along the roads winding about the lake. There is a Buddha statue in the far distance that will catch your eye, unperturbed by the bustle of the city. A fountain throws water some fifty meters above the lake, as flocks of birds wade through, in an almost ceremonial dance. All of this can be seen from Arthur Seat, though you won’t be alone as the spot attracts quite a few tourists, camera in hand. The people of Kandy, however, are mild-mannered and always helpful. You must keep in mind that Kandy pretty much closes shop after 7 p.m. Within the city centre you will find activity into the late hours of night, but the rest of Kandy will close their doors as dusk settles in.
For food you can try the hotels, or White House Restaurant and the many restaurants strewn about the city centre. Or you could stop by Tamarind Tree Inn, a quaint little tavern on the side of a hill. You can set a table on the lawn and enjoy a pint with bites.
Prices are quite nominal, with only hotels charging the usual inflated amounts. On the streets, however, you can buy a little potato samosa, mini ulundu and parippu vadais, and even isso vadais for just five rupees. Fruits and vegetables are also quite cheap, so you can go green if you have a kitchen to yourself. Ideally, Kandy is a place to be with friends or family, and most Sri Lankans know at least one family living here. Be it a distant relative, or a family friend, it is never a bad idea to pay a visit, if not for company, for the sake of escaping the humid stench of Colombo.
A train ticket will only cost you Rs 190 from Colombo Fort, and inter-city busses run up and down almost hourly. Lodging is not too expensive; you will be able to find cheap guest houses at Rs 1500, though hotels will charge according to the services offered.
Travelling around the city is also quite cheap, with most trishaw rides costing between Rs,100 to 300. By foot, however, is the best way to experience the hills, and the constant supply of fresh mountain air. Browse through the shopping centres in the town and look out for Waruna Antiques, Sriya & Daya Curio Shop and Jayamali Batik Studio, if you are keen on shopping. During my stay in Kandy I was given hospitality by a resident artist, one of many who choose to call the great hills of Candae their abode.