Overview

Udawattekele Forest Reserve, also known as Udawasalawatta, is one of Kandy’s most treasured natural attractions. Situated directly above the Royal Palace and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the forest was once reserved exclusively for the kings and royal family of the Kandyan Kingdom as a place for relaxation, meditation and recreation. Ancient chronicles record that Sri Lankan monarchs traditionally maintained royal parks close to their palaces, and Udawattekele served this important purpose for the last kingdom of Sri Lanka.

Today, this protected rainforest covers approximately 257 acres and serves as an important ecological refuge within the city of Kandy. Before British rule, the forest extended over more than 1,000 acres, reaching as far as the Mahaweli River and surrounding areas. Despite its reduction in size over time, Udawattekele continues to preserve a remarkable concentration of flora, fauna and cultural heritage.

The forest is characterized by dense vegetation consisting of canopy, sub-canopy and forest-floor layers that create a cool and tranquil environment. Numerous walking paths wind through towering trees, giant creepers, bamboo groves and hidden viewpoints, making it one of the best places in Kandy for nature walks and birdwatching.

Attractions Within Udawattekele Forest Reserve

Senkanda Cave

One of the most historically significant sites within the reserve is Senkanda Cave, named after a hermit called Senkanda who is believed to have lived there. According to local legend, a villager lost in the forest was sheltered by the hermit and later shared stories about the forest with King Wickramabahu. When the king’s kingdom was threatened by enemies, he reportedly sought refuge in this cave. The name “Senkadagala,” one of the ancient names of Kandy, is believed to be associated with this legendary hermit.

Kodimale Peak

Kodimale is the highest point within Udawattekele Forest Reserve, rising approximately 1,800 feet above sea level. Local traditions suggest that royal and religious flags were once hoisted here during ancient times. The summit provides rewarding views of Kandy and the surrounding hill country, making it a popular destination for hikers exploring the reserve.

Lady Horton Street

One of the earliest formal pathways constructed within the forest is Lady Horton Street. Built in 1834 by Governor Horton and named in honour of his wife, it remains a historic route through the reserve and reflects the colonial influence on Kandy’s development.

Pus Wela Giant Liana

Near Kodimale visitors can find the famous Pus Wela (Entada pusaetha), a giant endemic liana estimated to be between 200 and 300 years old. This impressive forest climber twists through the canopy and is regarded as one of the botanical highlights of the reserve. Its enormous stems and age make it a remarkable example of Sri Lanka’s rainforest ecosystem.

The Royal Pond

Hidden within the forest is an ancient pond believed to have been used by the queens and members of the Kandyan royal family for recreation and water sports. Local folklore tells of a golden pot containing the treasures of King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe hidden at the bottom of the pond. Another legend speaks of a secret tunnel connecting the pond to Kandy Lake. Whether fact or folklore, these stories add mystery to the forest experience.

The Marble Seat

The Marble Seat was once a large flat stone used by members of the royal family as a resting place while enjoying the tranquillity of the forest. Although the original stone has since been relocated to the Sri Dalada Sylvan for religious use, the story remains an important reminder of the forest’s royal connections.

Buddhist Temples and Hermitages

Udawattekele has long been associated with Buddhist meditation and spiritual practice. Several temples and hermitages are located within or around the reserve, including:

• Sri Dalada Sylvan
• Gangaramaya Temple
• Keerthi Sri Potgul Viharaya
• Siriwardanaramaya
• Sri Visuddhi Cave Monastery
• Maithree Kutiya
• Senanayake Viharaya

These religious sites contribute to the peaceful atmosphere that characterises the forest today.

Opening Hours

6:30 AM – 6:00 PM Daily

Entry Fee

Foreign Visitors: Approximately USD 3–5

Local Visitors: Nominal fee

Best Time to Visit

• Early Morning for birdwatching
• Late Afternoon for hiking and photography
• Throughout the year

Time Required

1.5 – 3 Hours

Attraction Type

• Nature Reserve
• Rainforest
• Birdwatching Destination
• Hiking Attraction
• Historical Site
• Eco Tourism Attraction

Related Activities

• Udawattekele Nature Walk
• Bird Watching Tour
• Kandy Eco Adventure
• Photography Trail
• Forest Meditation Experience

Biodiversity and Wildlife

Udawattekele is one of Sri Lanka’s most important urban biodiversity hotspots. The forest contains numerous native and endemic plant species, including:

• Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
• Kitul Palm (Caryota urens)
• Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla)
• Nuga (Ficus fergusoni)
• Sapu (Michelia champaca)
• Kurundu (Wild Cinnamon)
• Wal Del (Artocarpus nobilis)

The reserve is also renowned among birdwatchers. More than sixty species of birds have been recorded, including:

• Sri Lanka Yellow-fronted Barbet
• Layard’s Parakeet
• Brown-capped Babbler
• Indian Paradise Flycatcher
• Crested Serpent Eagle
• Hill Myna
• Indian Pitta
• Brahminy Kite

Mammals frequently encountered include:

• Toque Monkey
• Mouse Deer
• Palm Squirrel
• Porcupine
• Fishing Cat
• Hare

Environmental Importance

Beyond its beauty, Udawattekele serves as the green lung of Kandy. The forest helps regulate urban temperatures, reduce pollution and manage water flow into Kandy Lake. Its dense vegetation captures rainfall and gradually releases water into the surrounding ecosystem, making it an important environmental resource for the city.

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