Introduction
“In a quiet corner of Kandy, weathered tombstones whisper secrets of tea planters, soldiers, and children who shaped Sri Lanka’s colonial past.”
Tucked behind the Temple of the Tooth, this 19th-century cemetery is a poignant reminder of British Ceylon. Forgotten for decades, it’s now a hauntingly beautiful spot for travelers seeking stories beyond temples and festivals.
1. History: A Graveyard of Empire
- Origins: Established in 1817 for British officials and families during the Kandyan Wars.
- Notable Burials:
- John Fraser: The cemetery’s first burial (1817), a young soldier who died in battle.
- Sir John D’Oyly: A British diplomat fluent in Sinhala, pivotal in annexing the Kandyan Kingdom.
- Rediscovery: Restored in 1998 by the Common War Graves Commission after decades of neglect.
2. What to See & Do
- Epitaph Stories: Read tragic tales of infant mortality, cholera outbreaks, and lives cut short.
- Example: “Sacred to the memory of Emily, aged 3, taken by fever under a foreign sky.”
- Colonial Architecture: Gothic-style tombstones with Celtic crosses and Victorian engravings.
- Guided Walks: Join historian-led tours (₵2500 LKR) to decode symbols like anchors (navy officers) and lions (British royalty).
Pro Tip: Bring a notebook—many inscriptions are fading, and your sketches could preserve history.
3. Practical Tips for Visitors
- Location: Behind the Temple of the Tooth (5-min walk from Kandy Lake).
- Entry Fee: Free, but donations (₵500 LKR) support preservation.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (gates close at dusk).
4. Hidden Spots Most Miss
- The “Forgotten” Corner: Overgrown graves of local Sri Lankans who worked for British families.
- Memorial Plaque: Honors soldiers who died in the 1818 Uva Rebellion, a revolt against colonial rule.
5. 5 Essential FAQs
Q1: Is this cemetery only for British people?
A: Primarily, but some locals employed by colonial families are buried here too.
Q2: Why are there so many children’s graves?
A: Tropical diseases like malaria and cholera claimed many young lives in the 1800s.
Q3: Is it safe to visit alone?
A: Yes, but the quiet atmosphere can feel eerie—ideal for reflective travelers, not thrill-seekers.
Q4: Can I take rubbings of the tombstones?
A: No, to preserve the stones. Photography is allowed, but avoid flash.
Q5: How does this connect to Kandy’s Kandyan Kingdom history?
A: Many buried here were involved in the British annexation of Kandy in 1815.
Local Insight
“These graves aren’t just about colonizers—they’re about human fragility. Every name here is a story of love, loss, and longing for home.”
— Mr. Rajitha, Kandy History Enthusiast
Emergency Contacts (General)
Police Emergency Hotline : 118 / 119
Ambulance / Fire & Rescue : 110
Tourist Police Hotline : 1912 (24/7 for tourist-related emergencies)
Leading Hospitals Nearby
National Hospital of Sri Lanka
Nawaloka Hospital Specialist Centre
Nearby Police Stations
Sri Lanka Police Station Directory
Fire and Rescue Services
Ambulance Services
Suwa Seriya Ambulance Service : 1990 (Free service)
St. John Ambulance : 077 -780- 5944
Embassies Nearby
Pharmacies
Pharmacy Near Me – Rainbow Pages
Union Chemists Pharmacy – Total Healthcare Support
Banks and ATMs
Bank of Ceylon – Our Touch Points
Commercial Bank – Locate Us
National Savings Bank ( NSB ) – Our Network
National Development Bank ( NDB ) – Locate NDB Branches & ATMs
Nations Trust Bank ( NTB ) – Branch Network
Peoples Bank – Nations Trust Bank ( NTB ) – Branch Network
Sampath Bank – Branch Locator
Seylan Bank – Branch Locator
Transportation Services
App-based services available for local transport.
Uber – Ride
PickMe – Book Your Taxi
Railway Station – Station Details
Bus Stand – Depots Contact Details
Safety Tips for Visiting the British Garrison Cemetery, Kandy
- Footwear and Clothing: Wear comfortable, modest clothing and sturdy footwear, as the cemetery grounds may have uneven terrain. Avoid flip-flops or open-toed shoes for better safety.
- Weather Precautions: Carry an umbrella or raincoat during the rainy season (May to September) and stay hydrated during sunny weather, as the cemetery has limited shaded areas.
- Wildlife Awareness: Be cautious of monkeys and other wildlife from the nearby Udawathakelle Forest Sanctuary. Avoid feeding or provoking them.
- Guided Tours: Engage with the caretaker, Harsha, for a guided tour. He is knowledgeable about the cemetery’s history and can provide valuable insights while ensuring you stay on safe paths.
- Photography Rules: Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash near delicate tombstones. Be respectful when capturing images of graves.
- Crowd Management: Visit early morning (8:00 AM–10:00 AM) or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Emergency Preparedness: Carry a basic first-aid kit and mosquito repellent. The cemetery is near Kandy Lake, where mosquitoes can be prevalent.
- Respectful Behavior: Maintain silence and avoid touching or leaning on tombstones, as they are historical artifacts and may be fragile.
- Accessibility: The cemetery is located on a hill with some steps. Visitors with mobility issues should plan accordingly or seek assistance from the caretaker.
- Local Guidelines: Follow any posted signs or instructions from the caretaker to ensure a safe and respectful visit.