North of Kandy's lake, the Udawatta Kele sanctuary protects 103 hectares of tropical forest in the heart of the city. Often presented as one of Asia's oldest protected urban forests, this reserve combines ecological significance, monastic heritage and sweeping views over the royal city.

Why visit Udawatta Kele

The reserve is one of the few forest lungs situated within a major Sri Lankan city. It is home to approximately 80 bird species, a discreet but varied mammal fauna, and several Buddhist hermitages still in use. Paved trails and dense shade allow for a walking visit just minutes from the Temple of the Tooth, with biodiversity you would ordinarily associate with far more remote parks. Plan to spend 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your pace and interest in wildlife observation.

History of the sanctuary

Under the Kandy kingdom, the forest was known as Uda Wasala Watta, literally "the garden above the royal palace". Reserved for the court, it notably provided food for the Temple of the Tooth's elephants and served as a refuge in times of conflict. After the fall of the Kandy kingdom in 1815 and British takeover, the forest was extensively exploited and lost much of its original cover.

To halt its degradation, the colonial government designated it a forest reserve in 1856, and it was elevated to sanctuary status in 1938. This dual protection allowed the ecosystem to regenerate and explains the biological richness observed today.

What to see inside

Monastic heritage

Three Buddhist monasteries remain within the sanctuary's grounds: the Forest Hermitage, Senanayakaramaya and Tapovanaya. They are complemented by three cave dwellings used by monks — Cittavisuddhi-lena, Maitri-lena and Senkadandagala-lena — as well as the Senkanda cave, linked to the city's history.

Diurnal and nocturnal fauna

Bird species number approximately 80, including several endemic to Sri Lanka: Layard's parakeet, yellow-fronted barbet, brown-headed babbler and Sri Lankan hanging parrot. Near the pond, birdwatchers seek out the three-toed kingfisher (Ceyx erithacus), uncommon and diminutive in size.

As dusk falls, the forest changes occupants: toque macaque, golden palm civet, mouse deer, slender loris, dark palm squirrel, Indian muntjac and Indian wild boar frequent the understory. Reptiles, amphibians, butterflies and invertebrates complete a faunal inventory remarkable for an urban site.

Flora and giant vine

Vegetation is organized in several layers that strongly filter light at ground level. Dominant species include Acronychia pedunculata (Ankenda), Adenanthera pavonina (Madatiya), Aleurites moluccana (Tel kekuna) and Antidesma bunius (Karawala Kebella). The site's botanical curiosity remains the giant vine Pus Wela (Entada pusaetha), estimated between 200 and 300 years old, whose massive stems wind through the canopy.

Main points of interest

• The pond, frequented by water birds
• Kodimale, the reserve's highest point
• The Senkanda cave
• The British garrison cemetery
• Buddhist temples and hermitages
• The viewing platform over Kandy lake, situated 115 m above the water level

When to visit

The sanctuary can be visited year-round, but the experience varies by season. The dry season (approximately January to April) offers the best walking conditions and good bird observation in the early morning. During the rainy season, vegetation is denser and bird calls abundant, but leeches are active on the trails: long trousers, closed-toe shoes and repellent are then recommended. Early morning and late afternoon remain the most favorable time slots for encountering wildlife.

Practical information

The main entrance is located on the forest's west side, approximately 15 to 20 minutes' walk from the Temple of the Tooth. A car park and refreshment stall are available near the reception post. The site is open daily during daylight hours, with different rates for foreign visitors (remember to bring cash in rupees).

A few recommendations: wear hiking shoes, bring water, stay on marked trails and avoid feeding the macaques. During the wet season, prepare protection against leeches (high socks, salt or repellent balm).

How to get there

The sanctuary is located 1.5 km from the Temple of the Tooth and 3.5 km from Kandy railway station, making it accessible on foot from the city centre. The climb to the entrance is steady but short. From other parts of the city, a tuk-tuk is the simplest option. Travelers coming from Colombo typically reach Kandy by train or car, then proceed from the city centre.

What to see nearby

A visit naturally fits into a broader discovery of the Kandy region. Within a few kilometers, several temples merit a detour, notably Embekke Devalaya for its woodcarvings and Gadaladeniya Vihara for its architecture. In town, Kandyan dance offers a cultural counterpoint in the evening, while enthusiasts of carved Buddhist sites can extend their itinerary toward Buduruwagala.

Frequently asked questions

Extend the experience

Udawatta Kele fits easily into a circuit in Sri Lanka's central region, between Buddhist heritage, tea plantations and endemic wildlife. To build a complete itinerary, consult our Sri Lanka journeys.