Highlights
- Once the royal pleasure garden of the Kandyan kings
- Closed to the public under the kings, which helped protect it
- Wildlife and birds have thrived here over the years
- The dense forest once served as a defensive barrier for the city
- A favourite for bird watchers, with wet and dry zone species
- Home to mammals, many birds and dozens of butterfly species
- Easy forest walks and trails right behind the town
Overview
Udawattakele Forest Reserve is a patch of forest on the ridge just behind the Temple of the Tooth, in the centre of Kandy. Covering about 100 hectares (often quoted as 257 acres), it offers shaded trails, birdlife and quiet a few minutes' walk from the busy town.
History
In the time of the Kandyan kings, the forest was a royal reserve, closed to ordinary people. Its Sinhala name, Udawattakele, means "the garden above the royal palace". The forest gave the kings privacy and protection, and a pond inside, known as the Royal Pond, is said to have been used by the royal household. Under British rule, it was declared a forest reserve in 1856 and a sanctuary in 1938. It also protects the water supply for Kandy.
What you see
- Plants: hundreds of species, including tall trees, giant lianas, ferns and orchids, with plants from both wet and dry zones.
- Mammals: toque macaques, purple-faced langurs, giant squirrels and, more rarely, barking deer and wild boar.
- Birds: more than 80 species have been recorded, including Layard's parakeet, the Sri Lanka hanging parrot, the yellow-fronted barbet and the emerald dove.
- Butterflies, reptiles and turtles in and around the pond.
Trails
Several marked trails loop through the forest, from short walks to routes of a few hours. A small cave hermitage and Buddhist monastic dwellings are also within the reserve.
How long it takes
One to three hours.
When to go
Early morning, for birds and cooler air. Paths can be slippery after rain.
Getting there
The main entrance is a short walk or tuk-tuk ride uphill from the Temple of the Tooth and the lake, via the road past the post office area.
Practical tips
- An entry fee is charged for foreign visitors; check the current rate at the gate.
- Stay on marked paths and carry water.
- Keep food hidden from monkeys.
- Walk with others; parts of the forest are quiet.
Visit the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake, or try hiking around Kandy. See things to do in Kandy and Kandy hotels.
Prices are as of October 2026 and may change.
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