Kandy is full of magnificent architecture. There are countless shrines and temples that display Buddhist arhitecture, Indian and Sinhalese designs, and overall decadent beauty. The time and effort over the years to create such beautiful buildings is a major draw for tourists around the year to visit this ancient city.
An architectural delight can be found at the Natha Devale which is Kandy's oldest shrine and dates back from the 14th Century. The style represents that of South Indian design as it is built in stone and has the classic colonnade. Intricate ornamentation can be found throughout as well as a bronze sculpture that honors a God. Make note of the archway in the entrance as it showcases Sinhalese design.
A temple that you cannot miss on your tour is the most famous, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic or the Dalada Maligawa which is a universally important temple for Buddhists. Its incredibly ornate architecture impresses right away but there is more than just the main temple. Take time to explore the other shrines that make part of this:
- Natha Devale
- Matha Devale (Shrine of Vishnu)
- Kataragama Devale
- Pattini Devale
There are also two monasteries that take part of the temple.