The Sacred City of Kandy was the last royal capital of Sri Lanka and remains a living centre of religion, culture, and tradition. Nestled among hills in the central highlands, Kandy served as the capital of the Kandyan Kingdom from the late 16th century until the early 19th century and successfully resisted European colonial rule for over two centuries, preserving indigenous governance and cultural practices. At its heart lies the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses one of Buddhism’s most sacred relics and symbolizes the close relationship between kingship and religious authority. Kandy continues to sustain centuries-old rituals, arts, music, and crafts, most vividly expressed through the annual Esala Perahera procession. As a living heritage city, Kandy represents outstanding universal value through the continuity of spiritual devotion, royal traditions, and cultural identity.