India, April 24 -- A three-and-a-half hours drive from the airport circuiting tea plantations and elephant orphanages takes you to Kandy, the last royal kingdom of Sri Lanka. The second largest city of the island nation, this quaint hill town is famous for the Buddha's tooth relic shrine by the lake. Magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and a cool breeze greeted me upon arrival. At first glance, Kandy seems like a town ensconced in a time warp, where people go about their lives in an unhurried pace. However, traces of modern urbanisation are visible in the swanky new hotels, restaurants and malls.

Jetwing Kandy Gallery is my base to explore the town. The property provides guests with immersive cultural experiences of the region...