Top 5 Things To Do In Kandy When Visiting Santani Wellness

Santani, named for the Sanskrit word meaning ‘in harmony with’ is the gateway to sustainable rejuvenation and holistic wellness. Santani offers a variety of programmes in Ayurveda, detox, yoga and spa. Combining all elements to provide guests with on-site pampering and rejuvenation of the mind, body and soul. The resort is situated in one of Sri Lanka’s most lush sacred environments and just 32 kilometers from the sacred city of Kandy. While Santani provides an abundance of activities, if you are keen on exploring the city around it - here are the top 5 things you can do in the city of kings! 

• Visit Sri Dalada Maligawa (The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic)

This is the heart of Kandy - it is one of the most sacred places of Buddhist pilgrimage in the world, primarily because legend says a tooth of Buddha is kept safely inside. It lies in a safe gold casket under the roof. On a daily basis, thousands of Buddhists visit the temple to honor the relic. Sri Dalada Maligawa was built by Kandyan kings and has since become the number one place to visit when in Kandy. 

• Stroll Around Kiri Muhuda (Kandy Lake)

One of the most peaceful, serene areas in Kandy is Kiri Muhuda. After visiting the temple, you can stroll down to the lake. Locals are often hanging around during sunset hours as the lake turns into a huge mirror, reflecting the amazing views - it truly is a sight to see. It takes roughly around an hour to walk through but is one of the best places to experience vibrant peace in the center of the city. 

• Wander Through the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya

The gardens are a 10-minute drive from the city center - we recommend taking a tuk-tuk to soak in the best views Kandy has to offer! This urban city park contains over 4,000 species of plants, inclusive of spices, medicinal plants, orchids and palm trees. It is the perfect spot for an early morning walk or evening stoll. Some key areas in the gardens are Royal Palm Avenue, the Orchid Garden and the Cannonball Tree (which was planted by King George and Queen Mary). 

• Explore the St.Paul Church

Kandy is also home to a neo-gothic style church, St.Paul’s. The church was consecrated on January 25th 1853, and was initially named the Garrison Church. Originally, it was used to serve the British troops during British rule. Currently, the Anglican church is open to worshippers every Sunday. It is one of the stars of Kandy’s historic district, along with the Sri Dalada Maligawa. 

• Walk Through the Udawattekele Sanctuary

Near Kiri Muhuda, is the Udawattekele Sanctuary; the perfect place for a quiet walk at any point during the day. At a point in time, the urban forest was only open to royals but today - it’s open to all and home to over 400 species of plants, 70 species of birds and a plethora of mammals. When following the path that walks through the sanctuary, you will also come to the highest peak of Kodimale, the Senkanda Cave, the water pond and some Buddhist temples! It is a whole experience in itself.