As a country with limitless attractions and charm, every moment is an opportunity. The best way to seize the beauty of this paradise and reminisce about your time in the country is to capture it on your camera. The photogenic beauty of the hill capital, Kandy, is evident, and the city's beauty can be saved in the blink of an eye and relished later. There are many opportunities for photographers in Kandy, whether you want to capture nature, sacred temples, customs, cultural events, architecture, or even people.

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage - Image via Flickr

Sri Lanka is a year-round dream destination for photographers due to its unique climate and location. The weather is sometimes unpredictable due to its two monsoon seasons: the southwestern monsoon from May to September and the northeastern monsoon from October to February. This is especially true in the highlands. For up-to-date weather forecasts, visit the Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology website.

Kandy is one of the most photographed cities in the country. For your photography assignment, spending a few days in the city is best to get the optimum results. Commuting will be easy if you find accommodation in a city hotel in Kandy that is conveniently located, such as the Hotel Topaz.

Kandy to Ella train ride

Considered to be one of the most scenic train rides in the world, this trip through the tea fields of Sri Lanka is one of the best places for photography. Make sure to book your ticket in advance if you plan to go for reserved seating.

Temple of the Tooth

There are many photography opportunities at the sacred Buddhist temple Dalada Maligawa. It is one of the most peaceful locations, with intricate carvings, Buddha statues, paintings, and a temple surrounding it. Enveloped by Kandy Lake, it makes a picture-perfect capture.

Udawattakele Forest ReserveUdawattakele Forest Reserve is a birder's paradise. Home to many bird species, it is the ideal place to spot birds of various colours and sizes. The forest reserve is also home to Buddhist monasteries. A walk in the reserve will allow you to snap some exquisite pictures.

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage

A short drive from Kandy will take you to the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage. Home to the gentle giants of Sri Lanka, this orphanage is ideal for capturing elephants of all sizes. In this orphanage, elephants are like grown-up kids. The local Department of Wildlife Conservation established the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in 1975, and since then, it has saved and cared for hundreds of elephants. Come to the orphanage when the animals are being fed to witness these amazing creatures go through their lives in close quarters.

Kandy Perahera (Procession)

The Esala Perahera in Kandy is one of the most significant and traditional cultural events in Sri Lanka. It is held in July or August by the full moon and is organised by the Temple of the Tooth. The historic Esala Perahera is an occasion to parade the Lord Buddha's Sacred Tooth Relic and invoke divine blessings. The procession showcases traditional dance acts, fire-eating, and stilt men. You also see elephants adorned in colourful attire walking in the procession. The sacred tooth relic of Buddha is taken on the back of an elephant, too.

Do your homework to prepare for what's in store. This will also help you run things smoothly. Respect local culture. Especially when photographing inside temples, do not take photos with your back turned to the statue of Lord Buddha. Sri Lankans are usually friendly, especially towards tourists. However, make sure to ask for permission before taking photos of people.