Kandy is one of the most beautiful cities in Sri Lanka. There are sites of religious appeal to see as well as plenty of cultural events to observe; this makes it a popular city to visit for both locals and international travellers in search of cooler climes as well. The last king of ancient Sri Lanka ruled the island from this magnificent city before the whole country was brought under the rule of the British during the colonial era. One certainly gets the feeling, however, that Kandy has managed to retain its aura of grandeur. Even today you will detect a feeling of royalty and while the city is bustling with life there are areas where time seems to stand still here, harking back to days of old. Among the many things to see in Kandy, the sacred Sri Dalada Maligwa, which is also known as the Temple of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, is prominent and is one of the most popular sites of worship among Buddhists in the island. The annual procession of the temple referred to as the ‘Esala Perahera’ is a grand event that displays so colourfully the fascinating culture and traditions of Sri Lanka. The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Lankatilaka Viharaya, Kandy Garrison Cemetery, Kandy Lake and Udawattakele Forest Reserve are a few of the popular tourist attractions in and around the city worth a visit.