Udawattakele Forest Reserve: Kandy's Wild Backyard

Udawattakele Forest Reserve: Rainforest at the City's Edge

Rising directly behind the Temple of the Tooth, Udawattakele Forest Reserve is a patch of protected rainforest that once served as a royal pleasure garden and hunting reserve for the kings of Kandy. Today it's a rare thing — genuine, tangled tropical forest within walking distance of a major city centre — and a welcome contrast to Kandy's busy streets and lake promenade.

1. The Trail Network

Best for: Walkers and casual hikers

A series of marked trails loop through the reserve, ranging from short, easy circuits near the entrance to longer routes deeper into the forest. Giant lianas, buttress-rooted trees and dense canopy cover make it feel far more remote than its location suggests.

2. Monkeys and Birdlife

Best for: Wildlife watchers

Toque macaques and purple-faced langurs move through the canopy, and the reserve is a well-regarded birdwatching spot, home to species such as the Sri Lanka grey hornbill and layard's parakeet, both found only on the island.

3. Senkada Cave and the Historical Sites

Best for: History and legend enthusiasts

The reserve holds several sites tied to Kandyan royal history, including the Senkada Cave, said to have been used to hide the Sacred Tooth Relic during periods of unrest, and the ruins of a former royal summer house.

4. A Quiet Escape from Kandy's Streets

Best for: Anyone wanting a break from the crowds

Because it sits right above the city, Udawattakele is easy to combine with a Kandy Lake and Temple of the Tooth visit, offering a genuinely different pace and environment within a ten-minute walk.

Practical Tips

• Best season: Year-round; mornings are best for birdwatching and cooler walking conditions.
• Getting there: Walkable from central Kandy, a 10 to 15 minute uphill walk from the lake.
• Getting around: Trails are well marked; a local guide at the entrance can point out wildlife you might otherwise miss.
• Entry/opening info: A small entry fee applies; the reserve is generally open during daylight hours only.
• Combine with: Kandy Lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya.

Where to Stay near Udawattakele Forest Reserve

Kandy's hotels and guesthouses near the lake put you within easy walking distance of the reserve's entrance. Browse verified Kandy stays on SLAccommodation close to the forest edge.

Quick Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Udawattakele Forest Reserve within walking distance of Kandy? Yes, it's a short uphill walk of about 10 to 15 minutes from Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Tooth.

What wildlife can you see at Udawattakele? Toque macaques, purple-faced langurs and a range of birds, including species found only in Sri Lanka such as the Sri Lanka grey hornbill.

Do I need a guide to visit the reserve? A guide isn't required but is recommended, especially for spotting birds and understanding the site's royal-era history.

How long does a visit to Udawattakele take? A short loop can be done in under an hour, while longer trails deeper into the reserve can take 2 to 3 hours.