Kandy is one of the most scenic cities in Sri Lanka, at an altitude 465 m above sea level and encircled by hills. Considered as the Hill Capital of the country, Kandy was the last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings and retains an aura of grandeur, which time has not affected. It is the site of the renowned "Temple of the Tooth" and the Royal Botanical gardens home to one of the best collections of Orchids. During the month of August, Kandy dazzles with the sounds and lights of the Kandy Perehara - a magnificent procession where the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha is majestically paraded on elephant back along the streets of Kandy. The city and its satellite villages form the centre of the islands handicraft industry, the unique Batik industry and its traditional dances are the most spectacular in the country.
