Udawatta Kele Sanctuary: Kandy’s Hidden Forest Escape in Sri Lanka

A Natural Retreat Behind the City’s Sacred Heritage

While Kandy is globally known for its cultural treasures and spiritual landmarks, it also holds a quieter, greener side that many travelers overlook. Just minutes from the Temple of the Tooth Relic lies Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, a protected forest reserve that offers a rare chance to step into Sri Lanka’s natural wilderness without leaving the city.

Often described as Kandy’s “green lung,” Udawatta Kele is a peaceful haven of towering trees, shaded trails, bird calls, and hidden ponds. It is a destination that appeals to travelers seeking calm nature walks, wildlife encounters, and a refreshing break from the busy streets of the cultural capital.

For tourists exploring the Central Province, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary provides a unique travel experience—one where biodiversity, history, and spirituality intersect in a single forest landscape.

History and Geographical Location of Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

A Forest Once Reserved for Kandyan Royalty

The history of Udawatta Kele is closely tied to the Kandyan Kingdom. During the era of Sri Lanka’s last royal dynasty, this forest was considered a sacred and protected area used by the Kandyan kings. It served as a royal retreat and was preserved for the private use of the palace, ensuring the land remained undisturbed.

The name “Udawatta Kele” roughly translates to “forest above the royal palace,” reflecting its location directly behind the historic royal complex. For centuries, the forest remained largely untouched, allowing its ecosystem to flourish naturally.

Eventually, Udawatta Kele was declared a forest reserve, ensuring its long-term protection. Today, it stands as an important ecological and cultural site, blending Sri Lanka’s royal past with modern conservation efforts.

Geographical Location in Sri Lanka

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is located in Kandy, in Sri Lanka’s Central Province. The sanctuary sits on a hillside just behind the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the former royal palace complex, making it one of the most accessible nature reserves in the country.

Its central location makes it a convenient stop for travelers visiting Kandy, as it is close to major landmarks such as:

Kandy Lake
Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth Relic)
Kandy city center

Because it lies within the hill country, Udawatta Kele benefits from a cooler climate compared to Sri Lanka’s coastal regions, adding comfort for visitors who enjoy outdoor exploration.

Importance of Udawatta Kele Sanctuary in Global Tourism

A Rare Urban Forest Experience

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is significant in Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape because it offers a natural forest environment within walking distance of a major city. Globally, very few cultural capitals contain protected rainforest-style ecosystems so close to historic and religious sites.

For international tourists, this makes Udawatta Kele a valuable attraction because it allows them to combine heritage sightseeing with eco-tourism on the same day.

Supporting Sri Lanka’s Eco-Tourism Growth

As global tourism increasingly shifts toward sustainable and nature-focused travel, Sri Lanka’s forest reserves are becoming more important. Udawatta Kele plays a key role in promoting eco-tourism in Kandy, attracting travelers who prefer hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation over conventional sightseeing.

Its presence strengthens Sri Lanka’s image as a destination rich in biodiversity, not only through national parks but also through smaller protected sanctuaries.

A Conservation Area of Educational Value

Udawatta Kele is not only a tourist destination but also an important conservation site. The forest protects native plant species and provides habitat for wildlife that would otherwise be threatened by urban expansion.

For students, researchers, and environmentally conscious travelers, visiting the sanctuary offers insight into Sri Lanka’s natural ecosystems and the importance of preserving urban forest reserves.

What to See and Do at Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

Walking Trails Through Dense Forest Landscapes

Udawatta Kele is best explored on foot. The sanctuary includes a network of trails that wind through thick vegetation, tall trees, and shaded pathways. The experience is calm and immersive, often making visitors forget they are just minutes from the busy streets of Kandy.

The trails are suitable for casual walkers as well as travelers seeking light hiking. Some paths are steep in sections, but most are manageable for visitors with average fitness levels.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Encounters

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is well-known for birdwatching. The forest is home to a variety of native and migratory bird species, making it a rewarding destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Tourists may also spot:

Monkeys (including toque macaques)
Monitor lizards
Butterflies and tropical insects
Small reptiles and amphibians

Although large mammals are not common, the sanctuary offers frequent sightings of smaller wildlife, especially during early morning hours.

Sacred and Historical Forest Landmarks

Udawatta Kele contains several historical and spiritual points of interest, reflecting its connection to Kandyan royal culture. Visitors may encounter:

Small hermitages and meditation sites
Ancient forest pathways used historically by monks
Hidden ponds and water features

One of the sanctuary’s unique qualities is how it feels both natural and sacred, offering a quiet atmosphere often associated with spiritual retreat spaces.

Photography and Scenic Nature Views

For photographers, Udawatta Kele provides excellent opportunities to capture tropical greenery, misty forest light, and wildlife moments. The natural contrast between Kandy’s cultural architecture and the forest environment also makes it a compelling location for travel photography.

The best photos are often taken when sunlight filters through the canopy, creating dramatic shadows and soft light effects.

How to Reach Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

Getting There from Kandy City Center

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is extremely easy to reach from central Kandy. It is located close to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and can be accessed by:

Walking (depending on where you stay in Kandy)
Tuk-tuk (short ride from most hotels)
Taxi or private car

The entrance is typically accessible within 10–15 minutes from most areas in the city.

From Colombo to Kandy

Most tourists arrive in Kandy from Colombo. Common travel options include:

Train from Colombo Fort to Kandy Railway Station
Bus services from Colombo to Kandy
Private taxi or driver

Once in Kandy, Udawatta Kele is one of the most convenient attractions because it does not require long-distance travel.

From Other Tourist Destinations

Kandy is well-connected to destinations such as Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Dambulla, and Sigiriya. Travelers can reach Kandy by road or train and then easily include Udawatta Kele as part of their itinerary.

This makes the sanctuary a flexible attraction for both short visits and extended travel plans.

Who Can Visit Udawatta Kele Sanctuary?

A Nature Destination Suitable for Many Travelers

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is ideal for a wide range of visitors, including:

Solo travelers seeking peaceful exploration
Couples looking for scenic walks
Families with older children
Wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts
Photographers and nature lovers
Travelers wanting a break from city sightseeing
Students and researchers

It is particularly suitable for tourists who enjoy quiet, low-impact nature activities rather than intense trekking or adventure tourism.

Fitness Level and Walking Conditions

While Udawatta Kele is not a difficult hike, it is still a forest environment. Some trails can be uneven or muddy, especially after rainfall.

Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for humidity. The sanctuary is best enjoyed by those comfortable with moderate walking.

Best Time to Visit Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

Best Season for Tourists

The sanctuary can be visited year-round, but the most comfortable season is typically:

December to April

During this period, rainfall is lower, and trails are generally easier to walk. The forest remains green throughout the year, but dry-season visits provide better conditions for hiking and photography.

Best Time of Day

The best time to visit Udawatta Kele is:

Early morning (6:30 AM to 9:30 AM)
Late afternoon (3:30 PM to 5:30 PM)

Morning visits offer cooler air and better chances of spotting wildlife, while afternoon visits provide soft natural lighting and a quieter atmosphere.

Midday visits are possible but can feel warmer and less comfortable due to humidity.

Best Time for Birdwatching

Birdwatchers should prioritize early mornings when birds are most active. The sanctuary’s quiet environment at this time creates ideal conditions for listening to bird calls and observing wildlife movement.

Practical Tips for Visiting Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes
Insect repellent
Drinking water
Light rain jacket (especially during monsoon months)
Camera or binoculars for birdwatching

Recommended Visit Duration

Most tourists spend around:

1.5 to 3 hours

This allows enough time to explore the main trails and enjoy the forest without rushing.

Safety and Visitor Etiquette

Udawatta Kele is generally safe for tourists, but as with any forest environment, visitors should stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing wildlife. It is also recommended to visit during daylight hours.

Because the sanctuary has cultural and spiritual significance, visitors should maintain respectful behavior, particularly near meditation or religious areas.

Why Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Is a Must-Visit Attraction in Kandy

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary stands out as one of Sri Lanka’s most accessible eco-tourism experiences. While the country is famous for large national parks like Yala and Wilpattu, Udawatta Kele offers something different: a peaceful forest retreat directly connected to the heart of a cultural city.

Its combination of biodiversity, scenic walking trails, and historical relevance makes it an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience Sri Lanka’s nature without traveling far from major attractions.

For visitors spending time in Kandy, Udawatta Kele provides an excellent opportunity to slow down, enjoy fresh air, and explore a natural environment that has been protected since royal times.

A Quiet Forest Journey in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Capital

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is one of Kandy’s most rewarding yet understated attractions. With its lush greenery, birdlife, tranquil walking paths, and historical significance, it offers a travel experience that feels both peaceful and meaningful.

For tourists seeking a natural escape in the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural region, Udawatta Kele delivers an unforgettable reminder that the island’s beauty is not only found in temples and mountains—but also in the quiet forest spaces that continue to thrive alongside history.

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